Morobe Province Elects First Woman Premier

Morobe Province has made history by electing its first woman premier, Enny Moaitz. Moaitz, the provincial member for Wampar and former finance minister, was elected unopposed to the top post. She succeeds Utula Samana, who stepped down after seven years in office.

Moaitz's appointment has stirred controversy, with the opposition faction expressing anger. Ahi member Bart Philemon reportedly stormed out of the assembly following the decision. The opposition leader, Bayang Mare, closed nominations, which paved the way for Moaitz's victory. The election process also saw a brief confusion regarding the deputy leader position, which Samana clarified became vacant upon his resignation.

“

Win or lose (national elections) I will still be on the floor of the Tutumang and will support the government of the day as much as I can.

Reflecting on her new role, Moaitz acknowledged the significant challenge but vowed to serve the people to the best of her ability. She stated her intention to continue the existing five-year development plan for Morobe without making immediate changes to ongoing projects. However, she announced plans to reshuffle cabinet portfolios in the coming week.

“

Although the new post was a big challenge, she vowed to do her best for the people.

This achievement marks another milestone in Moaitz's career, which has seen her break barriers for women. She was the first Lutheran woman teacher in 1967 and the first Papua New Guinean chief commissioner of the Girl Guides Association from 1973 to 1982. Entering politics in 1978, she has held various ministerial positions, including women's affairs, education, and finance.

National Deputy Opposition Leader Fr Momis welcomed Moaitz's election, calling it a historic achievement for women in Papua New Guinea and a victory against male-dominated leadership in provincial governments.

“

It was a victory for women because a woman had finally broken through the barrier of the male-dominated leadership in provincial governments.