Prime Minister James Marape has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling law and order issues, emphasizing that domestic security is critical for Papua New Guinea’s development.
Speaking upon his return from New York, Marape said, “Law and order is the number one task for us, and everything else we rank with law and order.”
He highlighted the persistent security challenges within PNG, noting that while the country promotes tourism and modernization, internal security remains a significant obstacle.
“For us, PNG in the local context, internal security is really important, number one,” he added.
Marape stressed that addressing law and order is a long-term effort, requiring structural reforms and sustained implementation.
“It’s not just one day, one month, one year, or one term conversation. Structural issues in fixing law and order in our country must be adjusted.”
“Adjustments have taken place, it’s now implementation that is taking place for us going forward.”
The Prime Minister called on all citizens to play a role in maintaining peace and security, urging individuals to avoid taking the law into their own hands.
He referenced a recent incident at Tokarara which was sent to him, saying, “You don’t take law into your own hands. You point to the perpetrator and get the police to make the arrest.”
As part of the government’s broader strategy to improve security, Marape confirmed the allocation of K10 million for the installation of CCTV cameras in Port Moresby.
“We’re working in partnership with the NCD city commission as well as government partners.”
“That program will be picked up in this year’s budget,” he said.
The initiative aims to enhance police response to crime and improve overall safety in high-risk areas of the capital.
Marape reiterated his administration’s focus on making Port Moresby and PNG safer for its citizens and international visitors alike.