Marape orders ministers to step up work before 2026 mid-year

Prime Minister James Marape has directed all ministers and department heads to step up their work as the country approaches the middle of 2026.

Speaking ahead of the mid-year period, Mr Marape said May is an important time for the government, with only a few parliamentary sittings left before the next national election.

“It is now May, and I expect all ministers and department heads to be fully at work, progressing their
responsibilities with urgency and discipline,” Prime Minister Marape said.

The Prime Minister said Papua New Guinea is facing challenges from the global economy, including rising fuel prices, as well as recovery from recent natural disasters.

“These challenges are not new to us. We have faced COVID-19, major natural disasters, and political
turbulence in the past. We will get through this as we always have, with resilience and determination,” he said.

Mr Marape also shared lessons from his recent visit to China, where he observed strong work discipline among leaders and public servants.

He said despite not earning more than Papua New Guinea officials, workers in China show high commitment and contribute to the country’s growth.

Mr Marape said Papua New Guinea must learn from this and improve its performance.

“This is a moment for all of us, ministers, department heads, and public servants, including myself, to step
up our game and work tirelessly for our country. We cannot afford to lag behind,” he stressed.

The Prime Minister has also instructed all government agencies to submit progress reports as the country approaches mid-year.

He said this will help track the Government’s work before the remaining parliamentary sittings ahead of the elections.

Mr Marape further urged leaders to be careful with spending, stay focused, and make sure key national priorities are completed.

“This is a time to tick off critical directives and bring major programs into maturity. Our work must translate into tangible outcomes for our people,” he said

Looking ahead, Mr Marape said he will personally review progress across all Government sectors throughout May and in the coming months.

He said the aim is to ensure major work is completed before Papua New Guinea celebrates its 51st independence anniversary in September.

“I will be spending time assessing the work that has been progressed so far, with the expectation that much of it will reach completion as we approach our 51st anniversary. This is about delivering results for our country,” he said

Mr Marape also said he is confident in the government’s ability to deal with current challenges.

“Papua New Guinea has overcome difficult times before. With focus, unity, and hard work, we will continue to move forward,” he added