The reason he says this is because there is no reform or policy development. Controls are lacking and appointments and recruitment are based on association rather than merit.

Lupari says discipline is poor without sufficient investment in skills development and training.

He says at all levels appointments are made based on political affiliation and place of birth.

At the provincial and district level, 99% of public servants in provincial administrations and 95% in the districts come from within, as a result PNG continues to see a continued decline in services.

This extends also to our police service, schools, and health clinics.

Lupari says public servants have become territorial where they act on self-interest rather than the interests of the nation, and they have failed to deliver for the public they serve.

The government spends K4.6 billion each year on public service payroll.

“For too long our nation’s public service has been allowed to grow unchecked without appropriate accountability. 

“It has become Waiganicentric and removed from the people and it no longer serves the purpose it was established to fulfil,” the acting chief secretary said.

“We must invest in practical skills-based training and recruit young capable Papua New Guineans based on merit, not association, political affiliation or place of origin.

“A stable and capable public service is critical to the unity and long term economic and social security our nation,” Lupari added