By ESWIN PLESIO
THE Papua New Guinea Allied Health Workers Association (AHWA) has pledged to rebuild the organisation, restore members’ trust and address outstanding industrial issues following the election of its new national executive in Port Moresby on October 29.
Newly elected president Russell Rennie Kama said the executive’s immediate priority was to rebuild the association after a period of limited progress, with members’ welfare remaining at the centre of its plans.
“Our journey has not been an easy one,” Mr Kama said during the declaration ceremony held at the National Department of Health conference room.
He said the new leadership would prioritise addressing outstanding industrial matters, particularly the association’s awards, reviewing its constitution, updating the membership register and strengthening financial accountability.
“Our plan is to move forward by rebuilding,” he said.
Mr Kama said the executive would also work to strengthen relationships among the five professional groups represented under the association and improve communication with members and key stakeholders.
These include the National Department of Health, provincial health authorities and the Department of Labour.
He said the association would also strengthen its collaboration with other health sector unions to promote collective efforts in addressing workers’ concerns.
Meanwhile, returning officer Desmond Timiyaso said the election process had experienced delays due to challenges involving the association’s membership register and other internal issues.
Mr Timiyaso said the election process commenced in March 2026, with nominations carefully screened to ensure candidates met the eligibility requirements, including being financial members of the association.
“We have complied with all the mandatory requirements of conducting an election,” he said.
He said the requirements included nominations, polling, counting and the formal declaration of results.
Mr Timiyaso said candidates contesting positions were decided through polling, while those nominated unopposed were declared elected in accordance with the relevant election provisions.
He said the newly elected national executive now had the mandate to represent the association and address the concerns of its members.
Mr Kama called on members across the country to support and work alongside the new leadership, stressing that rebuilding the association would require unity and collective commitment.
He said the executive was committed to restoring confidence in the organisation, strengthening unity among allied health professionals and improving the welfare of allied health workers throughout Papua New Guinea.