Prime Minister and Defense Minister, James Marape has called for immediate calm, discipline, and a return to duty among members of the Papua New Guinea Defense Force following reports of unrest and an illegal roadblock involving a small number of personnel at Murray Barracks last evening.
PM Marape in a statement released last night said the situation is limited to a small group and does not reflect the professionalism and discipline of the broader Defense Force, noting that all other command posts remain stable and operational.
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“As Prime Minister and Defense Minister, I call on all personnel currently involved in these activities to immediately cease, return to barracks, and report to their respective commanding officers,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“Discipline is the foundation of our Defense Force, and any actions that undermine order and stability will not be tolerated.”
Prime Minister Marape confirmed that he has directed the Defense Force Commander to suspend ongoing internal investigative processes relating to recent recruitment concerns, pending a broader independent review sanctioned by Cabinet.
The independent investigation will be led by the Chief Secretary, supported by the State Solicitor and an external high-level team, to ensure a fair, transparent, and comprehensive assessment of all issues, including recruitment practices and any allegations raised.
He said the decision to pause internal disciplinary processes is intended to uphold natural justice and protect all personnel while the independent review is conducted.
“All officers are to be considered innocent until the full investigation is completed. Those who have raised concerns through proper channels will be protected,” he said.
At the same time, Prime Minister Marape issued a firm warning against acts of indiscipline, including unlawful gatherings, roadblocks, and any conduct that threatens public safety.
“Those who continue to engage in unlawful or disorderly conduct risk being identified and subjected to disciplinary action, including dismissal,” he said.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged that some individuals may have acted under distress or misinformation and urged them to act responsibly and in the best interests of the nation.
“This is not the standard expected of our Defense Force. We are building a modern, disciplined, and professional force that Papua New Guinea can be proud of — one that can stand alongside regional partners and uphold national security with honor.”
He further confirmed that the substantive Defense Minister has stepped aside to allow the review process to proceed independently.
Prime Minister Marape stressed that the Government remains committed to strengthening the Defense Force through improved recruitment standards, leadership accountability, and institutional integrity.
He noted that Papua New Guinea is currently managing multiple national challenges, including natural disasters and global economic pressures, and emphasized the need for stability within the country’s disciplined forces.
“At a time when our country is responding to disasters and economic pressures, we cannot afford instability within our disciplined forces,” he said.
The Prime Minister reiterated that the independent investigation is already underway and will be completed within a defined timeframe, with its findings to guide further action.
He urged all members of the Defense Force to uphold their oath of service and contribute to maintaining peace and order across the country.
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“We are building a Defense Force that reflects the best of Papua New Guinea — disciplined, united, and committed to serving our people,” Prime Minister Marape said.