Chief Justice Salika calls on public servants to fulfill their legal duties, not politicians’ agendas

The Chief Justice of Papua New Guinea Gibbs Salika said public servants in Papua New Guinea are failing to perform their duties as required by law.

This neglect, he argues, has weakened the country’s public service mechanisms and hindered effective governance.

Chief Justice Salika emphasized that public servants appear to be yielding to political influence rather than executing their mandated responsibilities.

“Politicians should not be the ones we depend on. Government workers are the backbone of this country,” Chief Justice Salika stated.

“While politicians create laws and guide the country, public servants should be the ones delivering essential services, not politicians.”

The Chief Justice reiterated that the traditional role of public servants is to implement policies and deliver services, tasks that should not fall to politicians.

“Politicians make decisions, but public servants must carry them out. Yet we’re seeing everything left to the politicians. I think I'm saying the right thing.” He said.

He's urged public servants to stay true to their roles and avoid compromising their responsibilities due to external influences.