Prime Minister James Marape has announced a new chapter for the Ombudsman Commission following the appointment of Tabitha Suwae as Acting Chief Ombudsman, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to strengthening the constitutional office through merit-based leadership and institutional independence.
Speaking at a farewell ceremony for outgoing Chief Ombudsman Richard Pagen, PM Marape said the leadership transition would ensure the Commission continued to carry out its constitutional responsibilities while a substantive Chief Ombudsman is recruited through an open and competitive process.
He congratulated Ms. Suwae on her appointment and expressed confidence in her leadership.
“The Ombudsman Commission is bigger than any one individual. It is one of our country’s most important constitutional institutions, and its work must continue uninterrupted,” PM Marape said.
“I have every confidence that Ms. Tabitha Suwae, together with the Commissioners and staff, will continue to uphold the Constitution with independence, professionalism and integrity.”
PM Marape said the Ombudsman Appointments Committee had resolved to advertise the position of Chief Ombudsman to ensure the appointment is made through a transparent and merit-based recruitment process.
“Important constitutional offices belong to the people of Papua New Guinea, not to individuals.”
“Merit must always guide appointments to institutions that safeguard our democracy, uphold the rule of law and protect public confidence,” he said.
PM Marape reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening the Ombudsman Commission as Papua New Guinea prepares to mark 50 years of Independence.
He said the Government would continue investing in the Commission by improving staff housing, remuneration, operational resources and institutional capacity to safeguard its independence.
The Prime Minister also outlined his vision for a modern, technology-driven Ombudsman Commission capable of delivering faster, more transparent and accountable services.
“I want the Ombudsman Commission to become ICT-driven. Complaints should move through transparent digital systems where the law speaks for itself.”
“Technology must help eliminate politics, personal bias and opportunities for abuse,” he said.
PM Marape urged Commission officers to uphold professionalism, integrity and excellence, saying promotions and leadership opportunities should always be based on merit and performance.
“Our country needs men and women who love Papua New Guinea more than themselves. Your responsibility is to ensure that leaders obey the law without fear or favor,” he said.
He added that every generation of leaders has a responsibility to strengthen public institutions for those who follow.
“We all serve for a season. One day there will be another Prime Minister, another Chief Ombudsman and another generation of leaders.”
“What matters is that we leave our institutions stronger than we found them,” PM Marape said.
The Prime Minister also paid tribute to outgoing Chief Ombudsman Richard Pagen for his 27 years of public service, including six years as Chief Ombudsman.
“Public service often attracts more criticism than praise, especially in positions of leadership. Yet through all the challenges, Mr. Pagen has served with resilience, courage and integrity. He has not let his country down,” PM Marape said.
“If there is one word that describes Richard Pagen, it is strength. That strength has carried him throughout his public service.”
PM Marape also acknowledged the support of Mr. Pagen’s family, saying their encouragement had enabled him to serve the nation faithfully over nearly three decades.
He thanked Mr. Pagen for his service and wished him well in the future.
“Richard Pagen has served Papua New Guinea with distinction. On behalf of the Government and people of our country, I sincerely thank him for his outstanding service and wish him every success in the years ahead,” PM Marape said.