New Flags Flying - Pacific Leaders Remember
Part 8 Papua New Guinea
Significant events since independence
1977 Government of Pangu, People's Progressive Party, Mataungan Assn and independent re-elected under PM Michael Somare.
1978 Somare introduces Leadership Code stating MP's responsibilities. PPP quits coalition; Pangu continues to govern backed by United Party.
1980 PPP and 3 coalition partners forms government under PM Julius Chan.
1982 Pangu wins General Election under PM Somare.
1985 After no-confidence vote, 5-party coalition forms government under PM Paias Wingti.
1987 Coalition wins General Election under PM Wingti.
1988 After no-confidence vote, Pangu forms government under PM Rabbie Namaliu.
1989 Bougainville Revolutionary Army close down Panguna copper mine, declare Bougainville independent.
1992 Wingti elected PM.
1994 After no-confidence vote, PM Wingti replaced by Chan.
1997 Bill Skate elected PM.
1998 Tsunami kills 1,500 people on north coast.
Permanent cease fire signed and Autonomous Bougainville Government established under President Joseph Kabui.
1999 After no-confidence vote, PM Skate replaced Mekere Morauta
2001 Law prohibits party loyalty shifts by MPs.
2002 Michael Somare re-elected PM
2003 Limited preferential voting at General Elections introduced
2007 Somare re-elected PM: now Commonwealth’s longest-serving Parliamentarian
2010 John Momis elected President, Autonomous Bougainville Government
