Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has confirmed that he will assume full responsibility for the Defence Ministry following the decision by Defence Minister Hon. Dr Billy Joseph to step aside, as the Government moves swiftly to investigate serious concerns surrounding recruitment processes at Murray Barracks.
Speaking at a press conference today, Prime Minister Marape commended Hon. Dr Joseph for stepping aside voluntarily, describing it as an act of leadership and accountability in the national interest.
“I commend Hon. Dr Billy Joseph for taking this step in the interest of transparency and integrity. Leadership is about responsibility, and this decision allows a clear and independent process to take place,” Prime Minister Marape said.
The Prime Minister announced that he will take direct oversight of the Defence portfolio while Cabinet considers further advice on the matter. Hon. Dr Joseph will continue to serve in Cabinet in another capacity pending further decisions.
Independent High-Level Investigation
Prime Minister Marape revealed that a three-member high-level independent investigation team will be appointed to examine longstanding concerns relating to recruitment practices at Murray Barracks.
The team will include:
• The Chief Secretary (lead investigator)
• The State Solicitor
• A senior adviser from the Australian Defence Force
“This is not the first time issues have surfaced in recruitment at Murray Barracks. Similar concerns were raised five years ago, ten years ago, and now again,” he said.
“We are dealing with a matter of national security. Recruitment into our Defence Force must be beyond reproach. It must be transparent, merit-based, and free from any form of influence or conflict of interest.”
The Prime Minister indicated that preliminary reports point to possible vested interests interfering in recruitment processes, including favouritism and improper influence.
National Security At Stake
Prime Minister Marape stressed that the integrity of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force is critical as the country works to modernise and expand its military capability.
“We are building a Defence Force of up to 7,000 personnel — ready across land, sea, air, and cyber domains. In today’s world, security threats are evolving rapidly, including cyber warfare,” he said.
“This is not about one recruit or one barracks. This is about safeguarding our nation.”
He added that Papua New Guinea’s growing defence cooperation with Australia could open pathways
for up to 10,000 Papua New Guineans to access employment, training, and service opportunities, making it even more critical to maintain high standards.
“We cannot allow small, vested interests to sabotage a national programme that has the potential to transform opportunities for our young people.”
Seven-Day Notice And Immediate Reforms
Prime Minister Marape confirmed that the Defence Commander and Defence Secretary have been given seven days to respond to the issues raised.
He also signalled that stronger penalties, including criminal sanctions, may be introduced for those found to have compromised recruitment processes.
“If wrongdoing is established, we will not hesitate to take the strongest possible action. Defence is a pillar of our sovereignty, and any attempt to undermine it will be dealt with decisively,” he said.
Modernising Recruitment Systems
The Government is also planning a complete overhaul of recruitment systems, including the introduction of digital and technology-driven processes.
Prime Minister Marape said future recruitment will:
• Use ICT and artificial intelligence-assisted systems
• Be based on verified national identity records
• Include strict provincial quota allocations to ensure national representation
• Require continuous testing and evaluation of recruits
“We must move into a modern system where selection is based on verified data, merit, and national balance — not personal connections,” he said.
“We want a Defence Force that reflects all provinces of Papua New Guinea, including the National Capital District and Autonomous Region of Bougainville.”
“Enough Is Enough”
Prime Minister Marape delivered a strong message to those involved in irregular practices, warning that the Government will act decisively.
“Enough is enough. This problem has repeated itself for too long. We will fix this once and for all,” he said.
“To those who have acted improperly, the law will take its course. To those who have done nothing wrong, you have nothing to fear.”
He assured the country that the investigation will be completed within two weeks, with clear findings to be made public.
“This is not a complicated matter. Within two weeks, the country will know exactly what has happened and where responsibility lies.”
Commitment To Reform
Prime Minister Marape emphasised that the Government’s actions are guided by the broader national interest.
“Some decisions are bigger than any individual. This is about national security, integrity, and the future of our Defence Force,” he said.
“We will restore confidence, strengthen our systems, and ensure that our Defence Force remains a professional and trusted institution for generations to come.”