Calls for transparency in the recruitment of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) intensified in Parliament, as Morobe Governor Rambo Paita received strong backing from fellow leaders demanding accountability from the Defence Ministry.
The debate, which has drawn national attention this morning, regarding irregularities in the recent PNGDF recruitment process. Governor Paita had earlier questioned the engagement of an external human resources firm, discrepancies between shortlisted and accepted candidates, and possible identity issues among recruits.
Adding weight to the concerns, East Sepik Governor Allan Bird raised a point of order, criticizing the Defence Minister’s earlier statements.
“This is disrespectful amongst former commanders of the PNGDF and the general public,” Bird said. “It is the most debated subject at the moment the half-truths and falsehoods that the Minister has told on this floor.”
He called on Defence Minister Billy Joseph to apologize not only to Parliament but also to the people of Papua New Guinea, stressing that misleading statements on matters of national security could create widespread public discontent.
“Ministers cannot be telling lies on the floor, particularly when it concerns national security,” Bird added.
Northern Governor Garry Juffa also supported Paita’s concerns, emphasizing the need for a lawful and transparent recruitment process.
“We understand that we need new recruits, but it’s about the process that’s followed,” Juffa said. “We want to ensure that it is transparent and done in a proper legal manner.”
He called on the Minister to formally undertake a thorough investigation and present the findings to Parliament.
“We expect that these matters will be seriously investigated, and the results of that investigation report should be tabled here,” he said.
The Defence Minister has since confirmed that an investigation into the recruitment process is underway and has committed to providing a comprehensive report to Parliament addressing the issues raised.
The Papua New Guinea Defence Force currently faces the dual challenge of increasing its personnel numbers while maintaining integrity in its recruitment processes, with the government aiming to significantly expand the force in the coming years.
As scrutiny grows, the unified stance taken by Governors Paita, Bird, and Juffa underscores mounting political and public pressure for greater transparency and accountability within one of the country’s most critical institutions.