PM Marape calls for restoration in law and justice sector

Prime Minister James Marape highlighted the importance of law enforcement and public service at today's [Monday] Public Service Dedication ceremony, emphasizing that 2025 must be a year of restoration for Papua New Guinea

He recounted a personal experience from the previous year, stating, "Last year, our city faced extreme stress and duress. I was two hours almost under rogue policeman arrest in my office. Thankfully, common sense prevailed, and order was restored amidst our policemen."

The Prime Minister was referring to the January 10th 2024 riots and looting in Port Moresby and some parts of the country, dubbed 'Black Wednesday'.

He said that moment underscores his call for accountability within the police force, stressing that all public servants, including law officers, must dedicate themselves to serving the nation with integrity and discipline.

Marape pointed the ongoing challenges in the law and justice sector, where complacency and corruption have often held back progress.

The PM urged country's leaders and law enforcement officers to restore their commitment to the people they serve.

"Policemen as officers of law and public servants… we must focus our mind to be at work for our country," he said.

The Tari Pori MP has called for a collective effort in raising the standards of public service.

Mr Marape also drew comparisons to the success stories of nations like South Korea, Singapore, and Rwanda, where strong leadership and committed public service have led to remarkable progress.

"The difference between these nations who've made progress and those that have not is the commitment of public service to work."

He highlighted that the key to national prosperity lies in dedication of public servants, including law enforcement officers.

Marape further urged all public servants, particularly in the security forces, to reflect on their roles and redouble their efforts for a better future.

"Let us restore ourselves first, then everything else is restored down the line," he said.