As the Minister for Administrative Services and the Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on Constitutional Matters overseeing the PNG Civil and Identity Registry (PNGCIR), I strongly refute the recent claims made by the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Douglas Tomuriesa, concerning the appointment of Mr. Lucas Apingwa as the Registrar General of the PNGCIR.
We would like to clarify that the process of selecting and appointing a new Registrar General is currently underway.
Contrary to the claims made by Hon. Tomuriesa, no appointment has been made at this time.
The Public Service Commission (PSC), in collaboration with the Department of Personnel Management (DPM), is rigorously following a transparent, accountable, and merit-based selection process.
This ensures that the appointment will be carried out fairly and according to established criteria. We urge Hon. Tomuriesa to refrain from making unsubstantiated and misleading claims that could confuse the public.
Instead, he is encouraged to seek accurate information before addressing the media on such matters.
To shed light on the current status and ensure transparency, we outline the key steps of the selection process:
- Initial Call for Applications – The position of Registrar General was advertised by the Public Service Commission, and applicants were invited based on pre-defined criteria relevant to the role and responsibilities.
- Processing of Applications – All submitted applications underwent an initial screening process by the PSC to ensure compliance with the advertised qualifications, experience, and other eligibility criteria.
- Shortlisting of Candidates – Based on the criteria and initial interviews, the PSC has so far
shortlisted five candidates who meet the necessary requirements and qualifications for the role of Registrar General. - Submission to the Department of Personnel Management (DPM) – The names of the shortlisted candidates have been submitted to the DPM for further assessment and processing. This stage will lead to the identification of the top three candidates.
- Final Selection by the National Executive Council (NEC) – Once DPM completes its evaluation, a final list of three applicants will be presented to the National Executive Council (NEC) for consideration and a final decision.
This strict, accountable process ensures that the appointment of the Registrar General is carried out with integrity, fairness, and in accordance with public service regulations. Any allegations of bias or manipulation in the selection process, as suggested by Hon. Tomuriesa, are entirely without basis.
The Public Service Commission and the Department of Personnel Management are committed to completing this process efficiently and to ensuring that the most qualified candidate is selected to lead the PNG Civil and Identity Registry.
We continue to encourage open and accurate communication regarding public service appointments and urge all parties to verify facts before making statements that may mislead the people of Papua New Guinea.
