Prime Minister, James Marape has issued a stern directive to Papua New Guinea’s public sector, calling for a total “reset” of the government machinery as the nation transitions from its Golden Jubilee celebrations into its 51st year of independence.
Speaking ahead of tomorrow’s Public Service Opening and Dedication Service, the Prime Minister emphasized that the event is a mandatory call to action for all Ministers, departmental heads, and public servants, rather than a mere ceremonial tradition.
A Shift from Celebration to Delivery
Following the conclusion of PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary, Marape signaled that the period of national festivities has ended, and a period of aggressive implementation must begin.
“We have celebrated our past. Now we must build our future,” the Prime Minister stated.
“Our people have given us a mandate. Our development framework is clear. Our priorities are set in MTDP IV. There is no excuse for delay, confusion or complacency.”
The Prime Minister’s remarks highlight a sense of urgency, noting that the country’s success depends on the efficiency of its workforce. He warned against the loss of productive time to “unnecessary delays” and “inefficiencies,” stressing that the responsibility of nation-building extends beyond the executive level.
“When it is work time, it must be work time,” he said.
“This country cannot be built by just the Prime Minister, Ministers or department heads. It must be built by every officer, from the highest executive to the front-line public servant.”
The “Critical” 20-Year Window
The Prime Minister framed the current era as a pivotal 20-year phase that will ultimately define the country’s trajectory for future generations. He identified this period as the window in which PNG must maximize economic growth, bolster infrastructure, and eradicate systemic corruption.
“The next 20 years will decide everything; how big our economy becomes, how strong our infrastructure is, how safe our communities are, and how clean and efficient our public service will be,” Marape said.
“This is when we must grow our economy the fastest, build our infrastructure the greatest, strengthen our law-and-order system, protect our sovereignty, and eliminate corruption.”
Accountability and Action
Central to this vision is the performance of the public service. Marape noted that while policies are firmly in place through the Medium Term Development Plan (MTDP) IV, the burden of proof now lies in the execution of those plans.
“Every ministry, every department, every agency already knows what it must do,” he said.
“Our national priorities are clearly set out in MTDP IV. We do not need more talk. We need action.”
Tomorrow’s dedication service in Port Moresby is expected to see full attendance from government leadership and board members of State-Owned Enterprises, serving as the formal launch of what the Prime Minister described as the “next leg” of the national journey.
“This is our reset moment,” Marape concluded.
“The work starts now. The expectations are high. And every public servant has a role to play.”
