Prime Minister James Marape has called on Papua New Guinea’s public servants to recommit themselves to accountability, efficiency and service delivery, urging them to move beyond plans and promises and focus on tangible results for the people in 2026.

Speaking at the National Public Servants Dedication Service at the Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium in Port Moresby city this morning, Prime Minister Marape said the nation’s entry into its 51st year of public service was not merely a ceremonial milestone but a moment of renewed dedication to public duty.

“As we step right through our 50th year and celebrate our 51st year later this year on September 16, putting God first is number one."

“It is not an accident that we are here today. This is a moment in which we dedicate ourselves to the cause of public service.”

The Prime Minister acknowledged public servants across government, including ministers, department heads, constitutional office holders, law enforcement agencies, the judiciary, and revenue-collecting agencies such as the Internal Revenue Commission and Customs.

“If I have never acknowledged you in the last six years, I’ve been Prime Minister, let me say today is the moment I acknowledge you."

Marape also addressed the issue of integrity within the public service, noting that while most officers were committed and hardworking, systems must deal firmly with misconduct.

Quoting Luke 12:48 — “To whom much is given, much is required” — he reminded public servants that accountability extends beyond public scrutiny.

“Your accountability is not to those who are watching you. Your accountability is to the unseen eyes."

Highlighting the scale of public service expenditure, Marape said nearly 40 per cent of the national budget is consumed by salaries and operational costs for a public service that represents just 1.3 per cent of the population. This, he said, placed a heavy responsibility on public servants to deliver.

“Efficiency is not optional, but a must. Accountability is not negotiable."

“Delivery is our bare minimum expectation.”

The Prime Minister stressed that citizens are no longer interested in government intentions, strategies or frameworks, but in real outcomes on the ground — particularly in addressing unemployment, poor connectivity, and inadequate service delivery.

“Government will no longer be measured by the monies we spend, but by what is actually delivered to our people."

Declaring 2026 a year of reset, Marape said the public service must execute its annual operating plans with discipline and urgency.

He outlined government priorities including fiscal discipline, economic repair, law and order as an economic necessity, human capital development, and greater investment in infrastructure and productive sectors.

He also reaffirmed his focus on growing the non-resource economy, creating jobs, supporting SMEs, expanding manufacturing and tourism, and transitioning subsistence farmers into commercial agriculture.

“Our people rightfully demand results. This year is not for explanations. We must deliver," said the prime minister.