Simbu police banned from associating with MPs and political candidates

A directive banning the close association of police personnel with intending candidates and members of parliament ahead of the 2027 national elections has been issued by the police hierarchy in Simbu province.

In a statement today, the Simbu Provincial Police Commander Superintendent Mazuc Rubiang stated that all members of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary in Simbu are to refrain from any form of engagement with politicians outside official channels.

“All members are directed not to engage in any direct association with intending candidates or sitting Members of Parliament,” PPC Rubiang stated.

The PPC said the order was necessary to protect the impartiality and integrity of the police force as the country prepares for the 2027 national elections.

Close protection officers will be selected centrally by the Deputy Commissioner-Support Services Division through trained personnel from the national security unit. No other form of recruitment or association is authorized, the statement said.

“Any personnel who continue to associate with intending candidates or sitting MPs will send the wrong signal to the public. This will be used against the Force,” Superintendent Rubiang said.

He said disciplinary action will be taken against those found to be in breach of the orders.

This same directive was also copied to the Assistant Commissioner of Police for Highlands Eastern End, the Provincial Police Service Commission, the Officer in Charge of the Internal Investigation Unit in Kundiawa, and the Police Headquarters in Simbu.