PM calls for order as Defence Force unrest grows

Prime Minister James Marape issued a late-night address to the nation on Tuesday, calling for immediate discipline within the Papua New Guinea Defence Force following reports of unauthorized roadblocks and protests by soldiers at Murray Barracks.

The Prime Minister’s address, delivered at approximately 10:22pm, comes in response to what he termed as uncalled for and illegal actions by a small group of soldiers purportedly aggrieved by internal disciplinary processes.

Marape has directed all soldiers currently involved in protests or manning illegal roadblocks to return to their posts immediately.

The PM also ordered for the removal of all unauthorized barriers to restore public order.

He confirmed that all current internal disciplinary investigations at Murray Barracks have been stayed. Marape said a three-man independent team, led by the Chief Secretary and the State Solicitor, will conduct a holistic investigation into recruitment practices and internal grievances.

"The PNG Defence Force I want to build for this country will have no place for ill-discipline," Marape said. "You are by nature supposed to be disciplined, and I will not tolerate indiscipline."

Marape said the unrest appears linked to the recruitment saga and internal whistleblowing. He acknowledged the soldiers who acted as whistleblowers regarding illegal practices but criticized their subsequent move in taking their grievances to the streets.

The Cabinet-sanctioned investigation aims to look into the entire recruitment cycle to ensure the quality and integrity of future soldiers.

Meanwhile, Marape said with the country facing economic pressures, such as rising fuel prices and natural disasters in regions like Milne Bay, the nation cannot afford a restless military. He drew comparisons to the high standards of the PNGDF in 1981, urging the current force to return to that level of professionalism.

"Those who are out there... you will be numbered, you will be identified, and you might be disciplined, including dismissed," Marape said. "Don't engage in mutinous, seditious, and ill-disciplined activities."

The Prime Minister concluded by assuring innocent soldiers and genuine whistleblowers that they would be protected by the upcoming external investigation, provided they return to an ordered living immediately.