PRIME Minister James Marape in a statement today has strongly rejected calls for his resignation, labeling them as politically opportunistic and a reckless attempt to exploit social tensions for political gain.
“From my end, I see a pattern emerging from the Deputy Opposition Leader James Nomane, and I am not surprised. Some in the opposition believe they can ascend to the government by exploiting social issues and tensions on the ground. This modus operandi has become apparent,” Prime Minister Marape said.
He revealed that before January 10, 2024, a senior MP approached him—in the presence of the Deputy Prime Minister and a provincial governor—urging him to resign, claiming he had lost public support and that lawlessness had worsened.
“Days later, the January 10 unrest happened, and suddenly, the calls for my resignation became louder. Now, I see history repeating itself.”
The Prime Minister made it clear that resigning is not the solution to the challenges facing Papua New Guinea.
“The job of a Prime Minister is not to resign at every crisis—it is to lead, coordinate, and allocate resources to address national challenges. That is exactly what we are doing.”
He emphasised that in 2024 alone, the government allocated the highest level of funding ever to police and law enforcement, taking real steps to fix the problems instead of simply shifting blame.
Prime Minister Marape pointed out that the Pangu Pati received a Section 63 invitation to form government after winning 39 out of 118 seats—the highest mandate since the Organic Law on Political Parties and Candidates came into effect in 2002.
“The law-and-order crisis in PNG is not a sudden problem—it is a result of years of neglect. We inherited a police force in complete decline, with little capacity at every level. Even the commissioner’s office lacked resources and trained personnel.”
He stressed that he has personally taken steps to restore discipline, resources, and leadership within the police force, including:
- Increased police training and recruitment, which had been absent for over a decade.
- Major reforms to strengthen the police force, including retraining officers and improving command structures.
- Improved coordination between security agencies, including Defence, National Intelligence, and the Attorney General’s Department.
“Despite these challenges, we are rebuilding the system. These reforms take time. Simply replacing a Prime Minister, Minister,or the Police Commissioner will not solve anything overnight.”
Today, Prime Minister Marape met with key security agencies, including the Police, Defence, Attorney General, National Intelligence Office (NIO), and Correctional Services (CS), and delivered a blunt message.
“It is time for them to step up and deliver. Our government is providing them with more resources than any past administration, and in return, we expect results. It is not the Prime Minister’s job to micromanage their responsibilities—they must work around the clock to restore law and order. If anyone should be working 20 hours a day, it is the police and all security agency heads.
“I gave clear instructions that fundamental police discipline and effectiveness must be restored. This includes:
- Reviewing police salaries, providing better allowances, including risk allowances, and ensuring that in the event of a police officer losing their life in the line of duty, the state—not the community or relatives—must take responsibility for their compensation and the welfare of their families.
- Ending unnecessary roadblocks and compensation demands, where people disrupt the country by blocking roads and demanding money from the state.
Ensuring that the police force steps up its enforcement and that the Police Minister and Commissioner, as well as the Defence Minister and Commander, take full responsibility for strengthening discipline and operations.
“I also directed the Attorney General and Justice Secretary to review and strengthen laws as part of PNG’s 50th anniversary reforms. This includes tougher penalties for harboring criminals or allowing crimes to occur on private land. Communities must take responsibility for crimes happening in their areas, and new laws will ensure they are held accountable.
“Additionally, as part of our Police Development and Capacity Programme, we are working to increase arrests and law enforcement efficiency. No one is above the law, and all offenders must be brought to justice.”
Prime Minister Marape also criticised certain opposition figures, including Nomane, for failing to use their influence to restore order in their own communities.
“Nomane spends more time in Goroka so he knows exactly who is behind the roadblocks and unrest. Instead of using his leadership to stop the chaos, he is choosing to fuel it. That is not responsible leadership.”
The Prime Minister commended the aggrieved tribal members in Eastern Highlands for their cooperation in reopening roads despite their frustrations.
“The people of Eastern Highlands have shown wisdom and responsibility by allowing the highway to reopen. I want to personally thank them for listening to authorities and considering the greater good. Eastern Highlanders are good people, and I am encouraged by their willingness to restore order.”
He urged all leaders—regardless of political affiliation—to work together in addressing crime and instability rather than playing political games.
The Prime Minister reminded the country that similar political maneuvering led to instability and economic decline in 2011 when opposition leaders pushed for the removal of Sir Michael Somare.
“The same voices that wanted Somare out in 2011 ended up presiding over years of economic decline and weakened governance.
“Now, similar voices are once again calling for my removal, ignoring the real work being done to fix long-standing issues.”
Prime Minister Marape acknowledged that law and order challenges remain, but reaffirmed his commitment to long-term solutions, not quick-fix political stunts.
“I am not saying James Marape is perfect—but we have started real reforms to restore law and order. Instead of stirring up instability, I urge young leaders like Nomane to take responsibility and advocate for peace and the rule of law.
“Calling for the Prime Minister to resign is not a solution—it is a distraction from the real work that needs to be done.”
