Prime Minister Hon. James Marape today urged Members of Parliament and senior public servants to use Papua New Guinea’s upcoming 50th Independence Anniversary as a moment for personal and collective recommitment to the nation’s future.

Speaking at a Government Caucus Leaders’ Meeting in Port Moresby, Prime Minister Marape welcomed newly elected Members, acknowledged the contributions of long- serving leaders, and called for renewed unity and purpose as the country approaches this historic milestone on 16 September.

“We are just 35 days away from celebrating 50 years as an independent nation,” Prime Minister Marape said. “This is not just about raising the flag and singing the national anthem— it must be a monumental moment in our own lives as leaders to reflect, reset, and recommit to the responsibilities we carry for our people.”

The Prime Minister highlighted the historical journey from self-government in 1973 to independence in 1975, noting the sacrifices and vision of the nation’s founding fathers, particularly Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare.

“Our generation must take the next step,” he stressed. “The past leaders brought us this far. Now, the construct of the future rests with us. I want to make the greatest impact in the next 20 years of my lifetime — and I urge all of you to think about the legacy you will leave for the next generation.”

Prime Minister Marape reminded the caucus that Papua New Guinea’s diversity is its greatest strength, but warned that unity and progress require leaders whose hearts are in the right place.

“The greatest obstacle is not outside — it is within,” he said. “If our hearts are not in the right place, then God will not bless our work. We must put the country ahead of ourselves, just as Sir Michael Somare did throughout his career.”

The Prime Minister also reflected on his government’s work over the last six years, particularly the decentralisation of resources to districts and provinces, and emphasised the importance of transforming this funding into tangible, life-changing outcomes.

“By the time we go to the 2027 elections, every district will have received between K75 million and K100 million under our stewardship,” he said. “The question is: what transformational work will you leave behind?”

The meeting brought together key ministers, departmental heads, and senior officials, with presentations scheduled from Treasury, Finance, National Planning, and Provincial and Local Government Affairs.

Prime Minister Marape encouraged open dialogue throughout the day, with leaders using the opportunity to address issues in their districts and provinces directly with relevant departments.

“As we mark this 50th year, let it be a time of reset,” he concluded. “Let us recommit ourselves to building a country that delivers good health, quality education, reliable infrastructure, and economic opportunities for all Papua New Guineans.”