Central Governor Rufina Peter has officially taken over the leadership of the Christian Democratic Party (CDP), positioning herself at the forefront of the party’s strategic preparations for Papua New Guinea’s 2027 National General Election.

Governor Peter formally accepted the role during a media conference today, describing the appointment as both an honor and a “sacred duty” to God and the people of Papua New Guinea. Party officials announced Peter as the party's new parliamentary and overall leader, marking a significant milestone as the party rebuilds its political machinery ahead of the upcoming election cycle.

The party leadership had remained vacant since the passing of its former leader, the late Kelly Naru. According to party executives, Peter's appointment signifies a total renewal of the political entity.

In her inaugural address as leader, Governor Peter highlighted that the CDP was founded in 1990 on core Christian values, including righteousness, integrity, humility, and service. She noted that the party has an essential role to play as the country navigates its next 50 years of political and socioeconomic development.

Peter directly linked the party’s theme, “Christian Nation in the Making,” to Papua New Guinea's recent 2025 constitutional amendment, which officially declared the country a Christian nation.

However, she emphasized that this declaration must extend far beyond legislative words and be actively reflected in the day-to-day operations of state institutions.

“Righteousness should be reflected in justice, honesty in public finances, compassion in our treatment of the vulnerable, and humility in the exercise of political power,” Governor Peter stated.

Addressing national issues, she drew attention to the immediate economic challenges facing ordinary citizens across the country, citing widespread unemployment, high transport costs, limited market access for local farmers and vendors, inadequate infrastructure, strained health and education systems, and the sharply rising cost of living.

The Central Governor reassured her constituents that she will remain fully committed to serving the people of Central Province while simultaneously taking on these broader national political responsibilities. Concluding her address, Peter formally accepted the mantle of leadership and called on citizens and leaders to adopt a serious, courageous, and hopeful approach to shaping the country’s next 50 years.

Her elevation provides the CDP with an active, sitting governor as its political head as the party begins mobilizing candidates and policy platforms for the 2027 National General Election.