Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has issued a Christmas appeal to all Papua New Guineans — particularly young people — to uphold peace, respect and the rule of law as the country reflects on 50 years of Independence and prepares for a renewed national reset.
Speaking ahead of Christmas and the New Year, Prime Minister Marape said PNG@50 is not only a season of celebration, but a defining moment to restore discipline, order and responsibility across families and communities.
“As we mark PNG@50 this Christmas, this is a time for reflection, healing and renewal,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“It is a time to reset our mindset as a nation — to put family first, to respect the rule of law, and to choose peace over violence.”
The Prime Minister warned that rising lawlessness, alcohol- and drug-fuelled violence, and youth involvement in criminal activity often increase during the festive period, placing lives and communities at risk.
“There is no future in crime, violence or destruction,” he said. “Our young people must understand that real strength lies in discipline, education, skills and honest work — not in fear and intimidation.”
Prime Minister Marape called on parents, guardians, churches, schools and community leaders to take responsibility for guiding young people during the Christmas period.
“Peace begins at home,” he said. “Families must guide their children, communities must not protect criminals, and everyone must work with police and leaders to keep our communities safe.”
He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening policing, justice and law enforcement, and made it clear that police will take firm action against criminal behaviour during the festive period.
“I have directed the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary to maintain a strong presence across the country over Christmas and New Year,” Prime Minister Marape said.“Those who choose violence, theft or disorder will be arrested and dealt with under the full force of the law.”
The Prime Minister stressed that forgiveness and accountability must go hand in hand, noting that reconciliation does not mean excusing criminal acts. “Christmas is about forgiveness and reconciliation,” he said. “But forgiveness does not mean escaping responsibility for criminal behaviour.”
Prime Minister Marape said the Reset PNG@50 agenda places young people at the centre of the nation’s future, with investments in education, skills training, sports, agriculture and digital opportunities as pathways away from crime.
“Our youth are not a problem — they are our greatest asset,” he said. “They must be supported, guided and disciplined to become the leaders of the next 50 years.”
The Prime Minister urged Papua New Guineans to celebrate Christmas responsibly, respect one another, and strengthen family bonds.
“Let us celebrate Christmas with peace in our homes, order in our communities, and love in our hearts,” he said. “Together, through respect, discipline and forgiveness, we can build a safer and stronger Papua New Guinea for generations to come.”