THE Opposition has acknowledged Prime Minister James Marape’s decision to take interim control of the Defence Ministry but insists the move falls short of addressing serious concerns surrounding the PNGDF recruitment scandal.
Deputy Opposition Leader Keith Iduhu said while the Prime Minister’s intervention signals the gravity of the situation, it does not resolve what he described as “constitutional and ethical breaches” linked to the 2026 recruitment intake.
Mr Marape announced he would temporarily oversee the Defence portfolio following Billy Joseph’s decision to “step aside” amid mounting scrutiny. The investigation will be led by the State Solicitor, with support from senior Australian Defence Force officials.
Mr Iduhu, however, criticized the arrangement, arguing that the Constitution does not recognize a minister “stepping aside” while retaining office.
“The Prime Minister’s acceptance of this is a constitutional farce. A minister must either serve or resign. If there is to be a credible investigation, Dr Joseph must be formally dismissed,” he said.
The Opposition further accused Joseph of misleading Parliament over the age of recruits, claims it says have since been disproven. It also pointed to his refusal to retract those statements when challenged by Morobe Governor Rainbo Paita.
Concerns were also raised about the continued presence of the PNGDF Commander, with the Opposition calling for his immediate suspension to ensure the integrity of the investigation.
“You cannot investigate a house while the person in charge is still holding the keys,” Mr Iduhu said, warning that failure to act could discourage whistleblowers.
The Opposition maintained that stronger action was needed to restore public trust and ensure the Defence Force remained a merit-based institution free from political interference.