MARAPE URGING PUBLIC SERVANTS TO REMAIN NEUTRAL

Prime Minister James Marape appealing to all public servants to remain loyal to their duties and refrain from engaging in political commentary or activity.

He made this appeal after the Motion of No Confidence against him was put on the notice paper today to go through its constitutional process before it is debated on the floor of parliament next week Tuesday.

The process under Section 145(1)(b) of the Constitution is now in motion, with the Notice of the Motion of No Confidence tabled today.

“In accordance with the Constitution, Parliament will reconvene next Tuesday to deliberate on the Motion of No Confidence. This is democracy in action. I urge all citizens to respect the process and allow it to unfold without interference,” said Marape.

In the meantime, he is urging public servants not to allow politics interfere with the duties and to remain neutral and focus on delivering service to the people.

“I urge all public servants: Keep your political views at home. When you report to work, be loyal to your role as a servant of the people. Remain productive.

Historically, Motions of No Confidence have disrupted the public service. We cannot allow that to happen again,” he said.

He cited the instability that plagued Papua New Guinea from 1975 to 2002, during which the average lifespan of a government was just two and a half years, leading to poor economic growth and a weakened public service.

“It wasn’t until the Organic Law on Political Parties and Candidates was introduced in 2001 that we experienced stability under the Somare Government. That gave our economy space to grow. We must not return to the instability of the past.”

Nevertheless, Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed his commitment to unity, the Constitution, and democratic values.

“As we move towards 2027, I urge all Papua New Guineans to respect our Constitution, our Courts, and the democratic process.

If you have concerns, express them through your vote– not by undermining the institutions that hold our nation together.

Next week, either I or Sir Peter Ipatas will be Prime Minister. Regardless of the outcome, I call on the public service to stay focused, and on our people to remain united.”