An audit summary of the PNGDF has shown that while the approved PNGDF establishment stands at over 5,000 positions, only 3,057 positions are currently filled, with 2,186 positions vacant, highlighting a significant shortfall in manpower.
Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, James Marape, has ordered an immediate and comprehensive investigation into serious discrepancies revealed in the 2024 PNG Defence Force (PNGDF) Integrated Force Audit.
He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to building a strong, disciplined, and representative national defence force.
In addition, 399 positions remain unassigned, while 82 personnel are engaged in long-term training and courses, temporarily reducing operational strength.
In a media statement, Prime Minister Marape expressed deep concern over the findings, particularly in relation to administrative inefficiencies and potential governance issues identified within the force.
“I am dismayed by the inefficiencies uncovered, particularly at Murray Barracks. I sincerely apologise to the nation. This is not a matter we will take lightly,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“We will leave no stone unturned. We will get to the bottom of this and establish exactly what has taken place.”
The Prime Minister reiterated the Government’s strategic objective of expanding the PNGDF to 7,000 highly trained and competent personnel, capable of safeguarding Papua New Guinea’s sovereignty and supporting regional security cooperation.
He emphasised that the current shortfall of over 2,000 personnel must be urgently addressed through a transparent and merit-based recruitment process.
“We cannot allow administrative failures or misconduct to derail our national goal of building a strong defence force. Recruitment must be carried out with integrity, discipline, and fairness.”
To ensure transparency and credibility, Prime Minister Marape confirmed that a senior Australian Defence Force officer at Brigadier General level will be engaged to support the investigation, bringing independence and technical expertise.
Papua New Guinea and Australia share longstanding defence ties under bilateral arrangements, and the collaboration is expected to strengthen institutional standards within the PNGDF.
“Australia is a key partner. Their support will help ensure we uphold the highest standards of professionalism, accountability, and operational readiness.”
The Prime Minister has already issued formal notices to senior defence leadership, including the Secretary for Defence, the Deputy Chief of Staff, and the Commander of the PNGDF. They have responded, and their responses will form part of the investigation.
He indicated that, if necessary, a Board of Inquiry will be established following the initial report.
Prime Minister Marape also outlined immediate reforms to recruitment practices, stressing that future intakes must prioritise young, qualified recruits directly from high schools for non-officer roles, alongside strict merit-based selection for officer-level recruitment, supported by comprehensive medical, character, and aptitude screening.
“This nonsense of recruiting unsuitable candidates will stop. We must recruit the best of our young people and train them to become disciplined and capable defenders of our nation,” he said.
The Prime Minister further announced that recruitment quotas will ensure equal provincial representation, including the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, reflecting the diversity of Papua New Guinea.
“Our Defence Force must represent all provinces, all cultures, and all people of this country. It must be a true reflection of our national unity.”
Prime Minister Marape called on individuals with evidence of misconduct, corruption, or malpractice within the PNGDF to come forward.
“This is not about covering up. This is about restoring integrity. Anyone with evidence must step forward. We are committed to accountability and reform.”
He reaffirmed that the Government remains committed to building a professional, disciplined, and capable defence force.
Related news: https://www.thepngsun.com/pm-marape-orders-full-report-on-pngdf-recruitment/
“We are building a defence force that is respected at home and abroad. This process, though difficult, will make us stronger.”