He Said He Wanted to Do What He Does on a Bigger Scale

From July to August 2017, the political scene was a mess. It was a time of great tension, with illegal signing of writs, double declarations, and even MPs being forced to switch sides. The country was waiting to see who would become the next Prime Minister. It was chaos.

At the Wabag to Maramuni Road construction site, Hon. Dr. Tom Lino stood firm. The previous government had failed in so many ways, and people were desperate for a change. But most MPs were blind to the people’s needs, using them only to win votes. The real question was: who would lead the country?

Hon. Dr. Tom Lino at the newly constructed Wabag to Maramuni Road site. 

Meanwhile, opposition MPs in Kokopo had gathered 46 members, hoping to challenge the government. But some MPs quickly switched sides, joining the ruling coalition. Why? Money. The hunger for power was stronger than the needs of their people. It was a sad truth.

Three years earlier, a group of five MPs made a bold decision to join the Pangu Party in hopes of forming a new government. Dr. Jeremiah Tom Lino was among them. He was the youngest and least experienced, having been a doctor, not a politician. He had given up a promising career to step into a world full of power struggles and dirty politics. It wasn’t an easy choice for him or his family.

As a doctor, Dr. Lino was needed in the hospital, not in the mess of politics. But he chose to sacrifice his career for his people. It was a big decision. One that must’ve been hard on him and his family.

Dr. Lino, from the Lanekep tribe in Wabag District, was a first-time candidate. He didn’t know much about politics, but he was determined to make a difference. On July 27, 2017, he was declared the winner of the Wabag electorate, securing 22,463 votes as an independent candidate. He defeated Robert Sandan Ganim, a member of the PNC party. His victory was just the beginning.

Behind the scenes of government formation, things were far from simple. MPs were offered ministries, cash, and promises of big projects. They didn’t have to chase power—it came to them. But Dr. Lino stayed true to his values, not giving in to the temptations around him.

His people were excited about his victory, but they weren’t sure which side he’d choose. Some thought he’d join the big parties. Others hoped he’d join forces with other Engan politicians. But Dr. Lino surprised everyone. He joined the opposition. His decision left many wondering: why?

During this time, Dr. Lino faced personal loss. He lost a brother. Despite his grief, he returned to Port Moresby for the funeral. There, he met with supporters and shared his sorrow. It was in that moment I saw a man with a deep history—a man who would make a difference.

Dr. Lino’s words were powerful. He understood his people’s frustrations. He said, “I know what my people want. But I can’t chase money. I want to remain a free man.” These words showed his strength. In a world of corruption, where money often ruled, Dr. Lino chose to stay true to his principles. 

The day after, on August 24, 2017, Dr. Lino told Loop PNG that he had joined Pangu. He wanted to work with leaders who believed in change, transparency, and integrity. He promised to show that opposition MPs could still deliver. His words were a breath of fresh air—offering hope for the future.    

Dr. Lino’s journey as a doctor wasn’t easy. For seven years, he served as the head surgeon in his province, saving lives. His work was fulfilling, but he knew his impact was limited. He wanted to do more. That’s why he ran for office—to serve the people of Wabag on a larger scale.

Now, three years later, has Dr. Lino delivered on his promises? I don’t have all the answers, but I do know this: his actions speak louder than words. He’s shown his commitment to his people.

Hon. Dr. Tom Lino with two water boys for the construction
workers.

Wabag District is different from other districts in Enga. It’s home to Wabag Town, the provincial capital, and has some key government services. But one place has been left behind for years—Maramuni.

Maramuni is a remote area, surrounded by thick forest. The people there live in poor conditions, with no road access. It takes them two or three days to walk to Wabag Town. There’s a small airstrip, but it doesn’t help much. The people of Maramuni suffer, lacking basic services like healthcare.

For years, no one paid attention to their plight. Previous MPs and provincial leaders ignored them. Only missionaries visited, flying in and out in small planes. But Dr. Lino changed that. He made it his mission to build a road that would connect Maramuni to Wabag. A road that would bring healthcare, education, and economic opportunities to the people.

A Maramuni Lady with Hon. Dr. Tom Lino at the road construction site.
The picture shows how people of Maramuni Travel the long walk.

Dr. Lino’s vision was clear: he wanted to bring more than just medical care to Maramuni. He wanted to change the lives of the people there. The Lino Highway, as it’s now called, is proof of his commitment. It will connect Maramuni to Wabag, opening up opportunities for generations to come.

Dr. Tom Lino’s story is one of courage and sacrifice. His work will be remembered long after he’s gone. The Lino Highway will stand as a testament to his legacy, a symbol of hope for the people of Maramuni and Enga. And as people travel down that road, they’ll remember the man who made it all happen.

May the people of Maramuni, Enga, and Papua New Guinea always honor Dr. Lino’s legacy. His dedication to his people will inspire future leaders to put their people first, not their own greed. The Lino Highway will always remind us of what can be achieved when a leader chooses integrity over personal gain.