Sarei assumes leadership of PNG Correctional Services, pledges focus on rehabilitation

Noel Sarei officially took command of the Papua New Guinea Correctional Services [CS] earlier this week, assuming the role of Commissioner during a formal handover ceremony at the agency’s headquarters.

Sarae succeeds outgoing Acting Commissioner Bernard Nepo, who concluded a two-year tenure at the helm of the country's prison system. Attending the ceremony, Correctional Services Minister Joe Kuli emphasized that organizational stability and institutional unity must guide the agency through the leadership transition.

"Leadership will change over time, but the organization remains," Kuli said. "Therefore, unity is key in driving the institution forward."

In his inaugural address, Commissioner Sarae, a native of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, outlined a four-year strategic vision focused heavily on expanding inmate rehabilitation and modernizing corrective practices to target the psychological and sociological drivers of crime.

"I believe in a Correctional Services system that is disciplined yet compassionate, secure but human, and traditional in its values but modern in its methods," Sarae said.

The incoming commissioner said his administration would prioritize internal capacity building to elevate the skill sets of correctional officers. Furthermore, Sarae announced plans to involve inmates directly in infrastructure development, utilizing prison labor to upgrade facility conditions and improve overall institutional welfare.

"I will listen. I will consult. I will work with all stakeholders to ensure that our service continues to fulfill its mandate with excellence," Sarae said.

Former acting commissioner Nepo, who was appointed to the interim role in July 2024, defended his track record, saying that the agency achieved substantial operational milestones despite severe resource constraints during his tenure. Nepo publically offered his full cooperation to his successor, calling upon rank-and-file officers and external stakeholders to rally behind the new leadership.

"Papua New Guinea deserves better from the correctional service," Nepo said.

He said the new CS commissioner Sarae's academic background equips him well to steer the agency.

"Work together under the leadership of our new commissioner so that citizens receive the best from corrections."

Minister Kuli concluded the ceremony by thanking both administrators for facilitating a smooth transition, reiterating that internal solidarity is vital for the critical law enforcement agency moving forward.