Planning Secretary Konny Samuel ends 27-year public service career

Planning Secretary Koney Samuel has stepped down from office after 27 years of service to the Government and people of Papua New Guinea.

Mr Samuel, 51, served as Secretary for the Department of National Planning and Monitoring for eight years.

He became Acting Secretary in July 2018 and was later appointed Secretary in May 2019. He served two consecutive terms before stepping down in October 2026.

Mr Samuel said he was leaving for personal reasons and believed it was time to give younger leaders an opportunity to serve.

“My decision to leave office stems from personal reasons. When I first took office as Secretary 2018, I was ready to take on the challenges of my new role, and I am proud of what we have achieved together over the years,” Mr Samuel said.

During his time as Secretary, Mr Samuel helped lead important national planning and development work.

This included seven Capital Investment Budgets, the Medium Term Development Plans III and IV, improvements to public investment management, PNG’s Second Voluntary National Review on the Sustainable Development Goals, and stronger partnerships with development partners.

He also supported reforms in infrastructure and the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene sector.

Mr Samuel thanked the Planning Ministers he worked with, including Richard Maru, the late Sam Basil, Renbo Paita and current Minister Sir Ano Pala.

He also thanked public servants, development partners, stakeholders and his family for their support.

“I believe the time is right for me to step aside and give opportunity to the younger generation of leaders to rise and take charge. I have served my country and people to the best of my ability, and I leave office with gratitude for the opportunity I have been given to serve,” Mr Samuel said.

He also thanked the Marape-Rosso Government for giving him the opportunity to serve as Secretary and thanked God for his strength and guidance during his 27 years of public service.

Meanwhile, the National Executive Council met on September 30 and appointed DNPM Deputy Secretary for Programming and Monitoring, Roger Kara, as Acting Secretary for the department.