The Evolution of the Papua New Guinea ‘Home-Grown’ Constitution

This chapter delves into the history of the Papua New Guinea Constitution, showcasing the nation’s transition from colonial rule to a historic and comprehensive constitution-making process during the 1960s and 1970s. Led by the Constitutional Planning Committee (CPC), the drafters aimed to harness ‘the will and spirit of the people’ through extensive consultations. The resulting Constitution emerged as an autochthonous document, tailored to address the deficiencies of colonial governance structures, the complex societal diversities, and the anticipated challenges of the post-independence era. Departing from traditional colonial models, the CPC charted a distinct path for Papua New Guinea through their crafting of unique constitutional designs. A notable institution with novel features is the judiciary. Vested with liberal and interventionist powers, the CPC intended for the judiciary to be distinguished from conventional frameworks. This chapter offers a deeper exploration of the transformative journey towards autonomy and self-governance encapsulated within Papua New Guinea’s constitutional evolution.