PNG PM Tells Leaders to ‘Run With Him’ as 2026 Becomes Key Delivery Year

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape says 2026 will be a decisive year for his government as he moves to complete promises made at the start of his term ahead of the 2027 national elections.

Speaking as 2025 comes to an end, the Prime Minister said he will have only one full year left in office before facing the people again, and intends to use that time to push hard on unfinished priorities from 2022.

He challenged both public servants and political leaders to match the pace he intends to set, saying those unable to keep up should reconsider their roles.

Mr Marape said he has instructed government departments and cabinet ministers to prepare detailed reports on their 2025 performance, due by January 7, 2026, to allow for a full review of progress.

He also raised concerns about the physical readiness of leaders, saying ministers and departmental heads have been asked to assess their health and provide medical clearance as the workload intensifies.

The Prime Minister indicated that a cabinet reshuffle remains possible in the new year, alongside the filling of existing ministerial vacancies, as part of a broader performance-based approach.

He said some ministers are currently unwell and discussions are ongoing to ensure those holding office are capable of meeting the demands of the coming year, with the first cabinet meeting scheduled for January 15, 2026.

“In 2026, I will be running, and I’ve told my ministers and the public service that if they want to run with me, they must be doing the work. I only have one year before 2027, and we must close in on what we committed to the country,” Mr Marape said.