Pundari challenges police to remain independent ahead of 2027 election

Police Minister Sir John Pundari says officers must stay true to the oath they took to serve the people and the country and must not allow political interests to influence their work.

The message comes as the country prepares for another national election, with Pundari saying the role of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary is clear: police must protect the people, enforce the law and maintain peace.

The Minister says officers have chosen a high-risk profession, with their duty requiring them to protect communities even when their own lives are at risk.

Pundari says this responsibility becomes even more important during an election, when police will be expected to protect voters, candidates, election officials and public property, as well as maintain order during campaigning, polling and the counting of votes.

But he says police must carry out these duties without favour.

The uniform, he says, must represent peace, fairness and the law.

“Standards start with you,” Pundari told police officers.

He says officers must understand that they are the face of the law and has challenged them to improve their conduct.

Pundari says mistakes have been made within the police force, but this is the time to change.

“This is the time to be better as we reset for the next 50 years,” he said.

The Minister says discipline must start at home and continue into the workplace, with officers expected to respect their uniforms and the responsibility that comes with wearing them.

Pundari says public confidence depends on how police officers conduct themselves.

“People should see a police officer and feel safe,” he says.

The Minister also warned that officers who breach their oath must face disciplinary action.

He says the police internal disciplinary system is already dealing with officers who have fallen short of their responsibilities.

Pundari says the force needs officers who understand that policing is a service to the people. He says the oath is not simply a formality but carries a responsibility to protect the country and its people.

As the 2027 election approaches, that responsibility will come under greater scrutiny.

Pundari says police must rise above political pressure and remain focused on their duty.

For the RPNGC, the challenge is clear: protect the people, enforce the law fairly, remain neutral and protect the integrity of Papua New Guinea’s democratic process.