A CALL FOR INTEGRITY IN THE APPOINTMENT OF THE HEALTH SECRETARY - PRIME MINISTER JAMES MARAPE COMMENDED

By Unknown Writer

via Transformation WhatsApp Group post

Port Moresby

20th MARCH, 2025

It is becoming increasingly evident that regional favouritism is influencing key appointments in Papua New Guinea’s government, with individuals from the Sepik region dominating the positions of Secretaries and CEOs across various government agencies. This is neither fair nor just.

We commend the Prime Minister for initiating a timely investigation into these concerns, as the people of Papua New Guinea deserve transparency and accountability. The Public Service Commission (PSC), the Department of Personnel Management (DPM), and the Public Service Minister must be held accountable for their actions.

The position of Health Secretary is one of the most critical and respected offices in our nation, and it must be filled based on merit alone. There should be no room for bribery, political influence, or regional shortcuts in securing this position. It is an affront to the people of Papua New Guinea for individuals to gain such a significant role through political connections, particularly when highly qualified candidates are unjustly overlooked.

In this instance, the third-ranked candidate – who was overlooked – stands out as the most qualified, experienced, and capable individual for the role. This candidate demonstrated exceptional competence and leadership potential, yet was unjustly relegated to third place, while less qualified individuals were placed ahead. This is a direct injustice to the people of Papua New Guinea, especially when the health sector is in dire need of skilled leadership. The Health Department has been struggling for the past five years, and now faces the imminent risk of being declared a failed sector. We urgently need a leader with experience and the necessary skills to stabilize and reform the department.

The current situation is untenable, with underperforming individuals prioritizing personal business ventures rather than leading the necessary reforms in health service delivery. This cannot continue. We need a determined, results-oriented leader in the top position who will immediately work to address the health sector’s ongoing challenges.

Moreover, the practice of appointing individuals from one region disproportionately to key positions across all government departments must end. It is essential that these appointments reflect regional balance and fairness, ensuring that no region is unduly overrepresented in the highest levels of government.

The investigation must clearly explain how the two implicated candidates were placed as first and second, while the most outstanding candidate was overlooked and relegated to third place. The PSC must answer for this, and the public must be informed about the criteria used in the final shortlisting process. Something is amiss, and the public has a right to know the truth.

Prime Minister, we commend your commitment to addressing this issue. The responsibility now lies with you and the Health Minister to appoint the best person for the job based solely on merit, qualifications, and the urgent need to restore leadership and integrity to the Health Department. The people of Papua New Guinea are counting on you to ensure that fairness and competence guide this crucial decision.