PNG PM Marape Confirms Suwae as Acting PNG Chief Ombudsman

PNG PM Marape Confirms Suwae as Acting PNG Chief Ombudsman

 PNG Prime Minister James Marape has confirmed the appointment of Tabitha Suwae as Acting Chief Ombudsman following the completion of Richard Pagen's six-year term, with the Government beginning the process of recruiting a permanent head for the Ombudsman Commission.

Mr Marape said the Ombudsman Appointments Committee had endorsed Ms Suwae to lead the commission in an acting capacity, ensuring continuity while the substantive Chief Ombudsman position is filled through an open and competitive recruitment process.

As chairman of the Ombudsman Appointments Committee, Mr Marape congratulated Ms Suwae on her appointment and expressed confidence in her ability to uphold the independence of one of the country's key constitutional offices.

He said Ms Suwae's extensive experience, professionalism and commitment to the Constitution would enable the Ombudsman Commission to continue carrying out its responsibilities with integrity and impartiality.

Mr Marape said the Government remained committed to strengthening constitutional institutions through transparent and merit-based appointments.

"Appointments based on merit, transparency and integrity are central to that reset," Mr Marape said.

"We are building governance systems that outlive governments and individuals, ensuring our institutions remain strong, independent and resilient for generations to come."

The Prime Minister also supported the committee's decision to publicly advertise the Chief Ombudsman position, saying qualified Papua New Guineans should be given the opportunity to compete for the office through an open selection process.

He said vacancies should be advertised publicly, assessed by independent selection panels and considered by appointment committees to ensure appointments are made on merit.

Ms Suwae, a career public servant who has served with the Ombudsman Commission since 2024, said she was committed to carrying out the commission's constitutional responsibilities during her time as Acting Chief Ombudsman.

She also acknowledged the contribution of outgoing Chief Ombudsman Richard Pagen, thanking him for helping strengthen the commission and expanding its workforce to more than 200 officers serving at its Port Moresby headquarters and regional offices.

"We will all now have to collectively work to build on the legacy he (Pagen) has left to us.

"We must ensure that the commission continues what he has started and move it to the next level.

"I trust that we can do it."