Port Moresby, Monday 12 January 2026
Chief Secretary to Government, Mr Ivan Pomaleu, OBE, has called on public servants nationwide to embrace a renewed spirit of commitment, accountability, and ethical leadership as the country celebrates its 50th year of independence.
Speaking at the 2026 Public Service Dedication Service in Port Moresby, Mr Pomaleu welcomed dignitaries including Prime Minister Hon. James Marape, members of the National Executive Council, Ministers, Members of Parliament, departmental heads, statutory body leaders, members of the diplomatic corps, development partners, faith-based organisations, civil society groups, and representatives of non-government organisations. He also commended the organising committee, volunteers, and sponsors for their dedication in delivering the national event.
Mr Pomaleu acknowledged the participation of public servants across the provinces, many of whom joined virtually, and reminded them of the deeper purpose of the gathering.
“The essence of today’s event is not only to celebrate the dedication of the public service for 2026, but to affirm our commitment as public servants in service delivery to the nation and the people we are established to serve,” he said.
The Chief Secretary emphasised that the Dedication Service was not merely ceremonial but a moment for reflection, forgiveness, and repentance. He urged that 2026 be seen as a year of restoration and renewal, setting the tone for the next fifty years of public administration. This year’s theme, “Reset, Recommit, Dedicate for a New Beginning in the PNG Public Service,” is drawn from Isaiah 43:18–19 and reflects the nation’s milestone of half a century of independence.
“With this historic milestone, it is only right that we claim this year as a year of restoration—for ourselves as agents of change, and for the public service as the central mechanism for effective service delivery,” Mr Pomaleu said.
Mr Pomaleu confirmed that directives have been issued under the Reset 50 initiative, requiring all government departments to submit performance and reform reports to his office by 31 March 2026. He stressed that these instructions must be adhered to as the public service recalibrates and repositions itself for the challenges ahead. Further expectations, he noted, would be outlined by the Prime Minister in his address.
The Chief Secretary urged public servants to take personal responsibility for promoting good governance, transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct, while upholding General Orders and Christian values.
“Today is a time for us to reflect on our role, our attitude, and our dedication to service. We are establishing our accountabilities—to our people and to our God,” he said.
He encouraged all public servants to listen carefully to government guidance and actively contribute to nation-building within their respective roles. “As we reflect on how far we have come, let us find better ways to perform our duties and deliver meaningful outcomes for our stakeholders,” he added.
Mr Pomaleu concluded by extending blessings to public servants and their families as they embark on the 2026 public service year, reaffirming the importance of unity and dedication in shaping the nation’s future.