PNGDF recruitment investigation to test fairness, transparency and merit

An independent investigation into the Papua New Guinea Defence Force [PNGDF] recruitment process for Basic Recruit Intake 1/2026 has officially commenced.

Chief Secretary to Government Ivan Pomaleu announced the start of the investigation in Port Moresby on Monday, following endorsement by the National Executive Council [NEC].

The investigation will examine allegations and broader concerns surrounding the governance, integrity, and administration of the recruitment process.

Mr Pomaleu said the probe will focus on whether standards of fairness, transparency, and merit were upheld, and will also determine accountability where administrative failures are identified.

“Merit-based and transparent recruitment is fundamental to force cohesion, effective civilian oversight, and confidence in public administration,” Mr Pomaleu said.

“Allegations of governance failures in this intake, therefore raise issues that extend
beyond administrative process and carry broader implications for institutional credibility,
rule of law, and national unity,” he said.

The Chief Secretary, who will chair the investigation, said the panel will operate independently and impartially under its approved Terms of Reference [TOR]. However, the TOR has not been publicly released.

All PNGDF members have been urged to fully cooperate with the process, which is administrative and separate from any criminal or disciplinary proceedings.

Findings and recommendations from the investigation will be presented to the NEC, although no specific timeline has been indicated.