By GINNAH MINI
PRIME Minister James Marape has stated that there has been progress in the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) investigation and has urged the PNGDF as well as the public to remain patient as the Independent Review into the PNGDF recruitment and related processes nears completion.
Speaking during a press conference today, the Prime Minister said investigations were progressing despite public silence on the matter.
“The investigation is running as we speak,” Mr. Marape said.
“Just because there is silence from us does not mean no work is taking place.”
“The finality of this investigation is our intention to making sure that there is no similar recurrence, ill-practices, and abuse of the process (in the future).”
Mr. Marape revealed that preliminary findings had identified certain discrepancies, but stressed that no final conclusions had yet been reached.
He added that the government aims for the defence force to have 7000 men and women in the force.
Background
Early April this year, PNGDF soldiers raised concern and held road blockades outside Murray Barracks in Port Moresby over the alleged corruption in the 1/26 Basic Recruit intake.
The issue escalated when videos of recruitment process were shared online on mid-March of 2026 alleging that there were over-aged candidates, which raised concerns over the PNGDF recruitment integrity in the parliament and by the people as well.
This has resulted in the Minister for Defence, Dr. Billy Joseph, stepping aside on the 8th of April while formal investigation is being carried out.
On April 23, the Prime Minister has ordered an immediate comprehensive investigation into this matter and has assigned a senior Australian Defence Force officer at Brigadier General level to support the investigation.
Mr. Marape said that the Brigadier General is working with the investigative team and the team is looking into the entirety of the PNGDF and not just on one area.
The Prime Minister said the Government’s main objective was to strengthen accountability, professionalism, integrity and public confidence within the Defence Force.
“We want a Defence Force that is disciplined, professional, capable, and fully prepared to serve our country,” he said.
Mr Marape also reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening PNGDF capacity through partnerships including the PNG–Australia Defence Treaty and cooperation with the Australian Defence Force.
As it is approaching approximately two months since the scandal broke out, the Prime Minister urged the nation to be patient as the investigation is being carried out thoroughly to prevent similar occurrences in the future.