In a bold move set to shake things up, Prime Minister James Marape of Papua New Guinea is urging ministers and department heads to come forward with detailed reports on their achievements for 2025 by January 7. He is also asking for medical certificates to ensure they are fit and ready to fulfill their responsibilities. This initiative is part of Marape’s ongoing commitment to foster a merit-based governance system as his administration enters its final year of the parliamentary term.
Marape emphasizes that he doesn’t want to push individuals who may not be able to keep pace with the demands of their roles. “I want to give assurance to the country that we will be stepping up on meritocracy,” he stated, clearly indicating his desire for a Cabinet that operates at full capacity and efficiency. The Prime Minister’s focus on merit is particularly crucial as public servants and Cabinet members are expected to prioritize delivering on the promises made during the 2022 General Election.
In addition to holding his team accountable, Marape is also calling on the citizens of Papua New Guinea to play their part in nation-building. “Government alone is not adequate,” he noted, encouraging all citizens to respect the rule of law and work collaboratively for the betterment of the country. His appeal resonates strongly in a nation where collective efforts can yield meaningful change.
The Prime Minister’s evaluation of his Cabinet will be particularly keen on the health and e-health portfolios, especially given the pressing health challenges many citizens face. As preparations for the first Cabinet meeting on January 15 begin, Marape is eager to accelerate public service work, with a push to kick off operations by January 5. “I am looking at performance holistically, which is why I asked ministers to report on what they’re doing,” he asserted, underlining his commitment to transparency and accountability.
However, the landscape of the Cabinet isn’t without its challenges. Currently, there are three vacant ministerial portfolios: Mining, Housing and Urbanization, and Works and Highways. Marape reflected on how political considerations have sometimes delayed needed reshuffles in the past but is determined to focus on performance as he charts the way forward for his government.
With one year left in his term, Marape is clear about his priorities: reviewing the Cabinet structure, reallocating portfolios, and assessing the performance of each minister to determine future appointments. His vision for a more performance-driven government could lay the groundwork for significant advancements in governance and public service in Papua New Guinea.
For those interested in following the developments in Papua New Guinea’s political landscape, stay tuned to Africazine for updates. We continue to monitor how these changes may impact the future of governance in a nation rich in potential.
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