By RAYMOND POPNA, UPNG Journalism Student
PRIME Minister James Marape has challenged the 54 newly commissioned inspectors of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) to remain committed, disciplined and faithful to their responsibilities during their commission at the Bomana Centre of Excellence yesterday.
Mr Marape made the call during the Commissioning Parade for Officer Cadet Intake 1 of 2023 where the cadets marked the completion of their three-year training programme.
The programme began with 63 cadets in November 2023, with 54 graduating officers who completed academic, operational, leadership and professional training.
The training program included practical attachments to police stations, leadership development and overseas professional exposure in Australia.
Addressing the new officers, Mr Marape stressed that becoming a commissioned officer was not simply about wearing the police uniform, but about accepting a responsibility to serve Papua New Guinea and its people.
He urged the officers to demonstrate commitment and personal discipline,warning them against behaviours that could undermine their professional responsibilities.
The Prime Minister told the officers to stay away from betel nut chewing, gambling, alcohol and polygamous relationships, saying they must maintain discipline and protect the integrity of the uniform they had chosen to wear..
He reminded the graduates that they had made a deliberate decision to join the police service.
“In good times and bad times, you chose to become police officers and serve PNG, so be faithful with your work,” Mr. Marape said.
Mr Marape said the officers would become part of the next generation of police leadership and urged them not to allow personal interests or outside influences to compromise their duties.
“Don’t let your work down. Don’t let your country down. Don’t let your family down. Don’t let yourself down,” he said.
He also warned them against accepting bribes, favours and improper benefits in the course of their duties.
The Prime Minister said strengthening the police force was an important part of addressing law-and-order challenges in the country and the Government’s efforts to expand police manpower and improve police training.
The newly commissioned inspectors were posted to all provinces across the country and were urged to commit to serve the people.