Prime Minister Hon. James Marape today announced a new chapter for the Ombudsman Commission following the appointment of Ms Tabitha Suwae as Acting Chief Ombudsman, reaffirming his Government’s commitment to strengthening one of Papua New Guinea’s most important constitutional institutions through merit-based leadership, institutional independence and modern governance.
Speaking at a farewell function for outgoing Chief Ombudsman Mr Richard Pagen, Prime Minister Marape said leadership transitions were a natural part of strong institutions and that the Ombudsman Commission must continue to uphold the Constitution with independence, professionalism and integrity.
Prime Minister Marape congratulated Ms Suwae on her appointment and expressed confidence that she, together with the Commissioners and staff, would continue to discharge their constitutional responsibilities without fear or favour while the substantive position of Chief Ombudsman is filled through an open and competitive recruitment process.
“The Ombudsman Commission is bigger than any one individual. It is one of our country’s most important constitutional institutions, and its work must continue uninterrupted. I have every confidence that Ms Tabitha Suwae, together with the Commissioners and staff, will continue to uphold the Constitution with independence, professionalism and integrity.”
The Prime Minister said the Ombudsman Appointments Committee had resolved to advertise the position of Chief Ombudsman to ensure that the office is filled through an open, transparent and merit-based process.
“Important constitutional offices belong to the people of Papua New Guinea, not to individuals. Merit must always guide appointments to institutions that safeguard our democracy, uphold the rule of law and protect public confidence.”
Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to strengthening the Ombudsman Commission as the nation prepares to celebrate 50 years of Independence and build for the next 50 years.
He said the Government would continue investing in the Commission by improving staff housing, remuneration, operational resources and institutional capacity to ensure it remains a strong and independent guardian of good governance.
The Prime Minister also outlined his vision for a modern, technology-driven Ombudsman Commission capable of delivering faster, more transparent and more accountable services to the people.
“I want the Ombudsman Commission to become ICT-driven. Complaints should move through transparent digital systems where the law speaks for itself. Technology must help eliminate politics, personal bias and opportunities for abuse.”
Prime Minister Marape urged officers of the Commission to embrace excellence, professionalism and faithful public service, saying promotions and leadership opportunities should always be based on merit, integrity and performance rather than favouritism.
“Our country needs men and women who love Papua New Guinea more than themselves. Your responsibility is to ensure that leaders obey the law without fear or favour.”
He said every generation of leaders had a responsibility to leave institutions stronger than they inherited them.
“We all serve for a season. One day there will be another Prime Minister, another Chief Ombudsman and another generation of leaders. What matters is that we leave our institutions stronger than we found them.”
Prime Minister Marape also paid tribute to outgoing Chief Ombudsman Richard Pagen for his 27 years of distinguished public service, including six years as Chief Ombudsman.
“Public service often attracts more criticism than praise, especially in positions of leadership. Yet through all the challenges, Mr Pagen has served with resilience, courage and integrity. He has not let his country down.
“If there is one word that describes Richard Pagen, it is strength. That strength has carried him throughout his public service.”
The Prime Minister acknowledged the support of Mr Pagen’s family, particularly his wife and children, saying their encouragement had enabled him to faithfully serve the nation over nearly three decades.
Prime Minister Marape thanked Mr Pagen for his distinguished service to Papua New Guinea and wished him every success in the next chapter of his life.
“Richard Pagen has served Papua New Guinea with distinction. On behalf of the Government and people of our country, I sincerely thank him for his outstanding service and wish him every success in the years ahead.”