Port Moresby 22nd October, 2025– The Secretary for the Department of Personnel Management (DPM), Ms. Taies Sansan has issued formal clarification regarding the appointment of the Acting District Administrator for Kagua Erave District, reaffirming that Mr. Peter Koropali remains the duly recognised and legitimate Acting District Administrator (CEO) for the district.
This confirmation follows recent reports of a purported suspension letter issued by the Acting Provincial Administrator of the Southern Highlands Provincial Government, Mr. David Kelma, against Mr. Koropali.
The DPM Secretary clarified that such action did not follow the correct public service disciplinary processes and procedures.
Ms. Sansan stated
“The suspension or removal of a District Administrator must comply with the provisions of the Public Service General Orders, particularly General Orders 9.10 and 9.31. These processes require the involvement and approval of the Department of Personnel Management. In this case, no such consultation or authorisation was made.”
She further emphasised that the HR function for all provincial public servants remains under the jurisdiction of the Department of Personnel Management, and not solely at the discretion of any acting provincial administrator or political office holder.
“Any unilateral action that bypasses due process is invalid. Mr. Koropali continues to serve as the Acting District Administrator unless formally advised otherwise by this Department,” Ms. Sansan added.
The Department has urged all provincial administrations to adhere strictly to the General Orders and consult DPM before taking disciplinary action against senior public servants.
This clarification ensures administrative stability and continuity of service delivery in Kagua Erave and reflects DPM’s commitment to upholding professionalism, impartiality, and lawful procedure in the public service.