The initial strategy is to consolidate the eight existing opposition parties into a two-party partnership is intended to offer greater political certainty in PNG’s fluid and turbulent political landscape.

After the 2017 general elections, an opposition coalition was formed amongst nine political parties as a bloc in readiness to form government. But it lacked the numbers to do so and defections cost it a more substantial role in parliament.

This week’s announcement formalises the transition of The Alliance from an opposition bloc to a registered political party.

Nemo Yala, Bryan Kramer & Ila Geno

“Political parties form the cornerstone in any political system,” Mr Kramer said. “However too many political parties fracture and segment the system and this promotes dysfunction.”

He said PNG has 45 registered political parties, 21 of which sit in parliament. Thirteen parties make up the government coalition with eight in the opposition.

“We are changing the game of politics in PNG by working with other competent political party leaders in the opposition to collapse their party on an interim basis to group under a single common political agenda,” Mr Kramer said.

“This will provide a credible alternative leadership to address PNG’s serious political, economic and social challenges.

“Rather than register a brand new party adding to the existing 45 parties, a strategic decision was made to use an existing party,” he said.

“Political parties require greater prominence in our politics so that systems and institutional processes become a way of life and not just a separate set of rules for those in power.”

Mr Kramer said 10 members of parliament have confirmed they will join the party. The Alliance party’s leader, its members and policy platform will be announced at an official launch in February during the next parliament sitting.