The 9th Annual Public Service Dedication Service held today at the Sir John Guise Stadium Indoor Complex holds a significant place in the nation’s history for more than one reason. On this day, exactly a year ago, chaos reigned in the city of Port Moresby and later spread to other parts of the country. Shops were looted and and burned; people lost their lives in the event, while Prime Minister James Marape was briefly placed under arrest by rogue cops in office. Reflecting on the terror that January 10th 2024, or Black Wednesday, as it is called, brought on the City of Port Moresby and the country, and as the nation is at the eve of its 50th year of sovereignty, it is symbolic that today, 10th January 2025 was chosen to hold this year’s dedication service for public servants. Today, as the nation rises from the ashes of Black Wednesday and heads towards our 50th Independence Anniversary, Prime Minister James Marape declared this year the year of restoration, in line with this year’s dedication service theme, ‘Year of Restoration in the Public Service'. “The key word is restoration. Restoration after 49 years of nationhood, restoration after the 49 years of nationhood, seven series of wet years that culminate in the 50th year, when a nation has passed from last year to 2016, we celebrate 49 years of wet. We now begin our 50th year, it is the year of reset and restoration." He implored the thousands of public servants across the country to examine themselves and ask themselves what their purpose is as public servants. “It is time for all of us to find our purpose in the innermost section of the heart and mind, that what is it that you must do to restore Papua New Guinea to the fullest. What is it that you and me must do?" [caption id="attachment_60570" align="aligncenter" width="843"] Picture by Edson Kuso[/caption] Laws are many, plans are many, intentions are there, but it really rests with us, in the motivation of our heart, must compel us to move that one extra mile, lift that one extra weight, push that extra strength to ensure we deliver PNG, the prosperity as citizens deserve,” he said. Minister for Public Service Joe Sungi also reflected on what insurrected the Black Wednesday riots and affirmed to public servants nationwide that the government will always ensure all public servants are paid. Still, it is up to them to honour their duties. “The government will always pay us, no matter what. The question is that we be, faithful, and devoted, to our duties.” Said Sungi. Chief Secretary to the Government Ivan Pomaleu also encouraged public servants to rise above this setback and move forward with a renewed sense of commitment as the country approaches 50 years of independence. “As we embark on the field ahead, let us make our commitment to serving the people of Papua New Guinea again with integrity, transparency, and unwavering dedication, focusing on building a prosperous, inclusive, and resilient nation for the next 50 years and more. I encourage you to actively engage in today's events, reflecting on our role in the public service world, embracing forgiveness and seeking restoration for personal and professional growth. May this occasion inspire and guide us towards renewing the public service and fulfilling our shared mission with purpose and dedication.” Said Chief Secretary Pomaleu.