Papua New Guinea has just turned a new page in its political story — and this time, it’s a woman holding the pen.
Hon. Kessy Sawang, Member of Parliament for Rai Coast Open, has officially launched the People’s Transformation Party (PTP) — becoming the first woman in PNG’s history to found and lead a registered political party. This milestone isn’t just another headline; it’s a movement redefining what leadership looks like in one of the world’s most challenging political environments for women.
From Trailblazer to Party Leader
Before her rise in politics, Kessy Sawang built a strong foundation in public service — serving as Deputy Commissioner of PNG Customs and Head of the Taxation Review Secretariat. She also founded the PNG Woman Blog in 2016, creating a platform for women’s voices in public life long before she stepped into parliament.
Her victory in the 2022 general elections was already historic — breaking a five-year drought when PNG had no women in its parliament. But now, she’s gone even further, showing that women in PNG politics can do more than just compete — they can create, lead, and transform.
The Vision Behind the People’s Transformation Party
The People’s Transformation Party (PTP) stands for exactly what its name says — transformation. Sawang’s goal is to build a party grounded in integrity, accountability, and inclusivity, focusing on economic empowerment, better governance, and equal opportunity for all Papua New Guineans.
Her leadership reflects a shift from participation to institution-building — where women are no longer guests in the political arena but key architects shaping its structure.
Why This Moment Matters
For decades, PNG politics has seen powerful women like Dame Josephine Abaijah, Nahau Rooney, and Dame Carol Kidu pave the way. Yet representation has always been limited — with only nine women ever elected since independence in 1975.
Hon. Kessy Sawang’s achievement isn’t just symbolic; it’s a practical step toward a more inclusive democracy. By leading a political party, she’s giving women and young people across the country a reason to believe that change is possible — and that leadership has no gender.
A Message of Hope
In her own words, Hon. Sawang has often said, “Women must not wait to be invited into politics — we must build our own tables.”
And with the creation of the People’s Transformation Party, that’s exactly what she’s done.
This is more than politics — it’s the beginning of a new legacy for women in Papua New Guinea.
Mattdotvu 
Leave a comment