Prime Minister (PM) James Marape is calling on soldiers that have set up a roadblock outside Murray Barracks in Port Moresby city to protest against the alleged corruption in the recruitment exercise, to stand down and return to their base or face the consequences.
In a statement which he made; he warns that any soldier involved who refuses to stand down will be thoroughly disciplined by the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF). He said investigation is underway into the alleged corruption in the recent recruitment exercise and this should be allowed to progress to its conclusion and the findings addressed, and not to stir up trouble over the matter.
“I will not tolerate ill-discipline,” stressed the PM.
“I call upon those who are out there, you will be identified and you might be disciplined including dismissed. I will not hesitate to go to the bottom of this one."
PM Marape said he is trying to build a defence force that is of high standards, reliable and ready to deploy anytime, and such behavior portrayed by these soldiers is not acceptable.
“The PNG defence force that I want to build for the country will have no place for ill-discipline officers, so it is in your interest that you abandon this protest, report to your sectional commander and also your overall commander in your unit.”
Angry soldiers set up roadblock
The roadblock protest was organized by PNGDF soldiers angry over their comrades facing a court martial that is expected today, for exposing alleged corruption in the recruitment process.
The court martial today will see four (4) soldiers face proceedings for allegedly leaking footage of over- aged men being enlisted during the recent recruitment exercise.
Although their actions exposed some serious concerns in the military, them leaking the video breached military protocols; hence, the disciplinary action taken against them.
Military bases ordered to close
Meanwhile, the Chief of Defence Force (CDF), Rear Admiral Philip Polewara has issued a Close Camp Order, ordering all military commanders to close all PNGDF units and military establishments for a period of one month.
“The measure is necessary to ensure strict security, control of personnel and stability during the ongoing recruitment issue,” stated the CDF.
All Unit Commanders are to exercise strict command and control to ensure compliance. Any breach of this directive will be treated as a serious disciplinary matter.
This directive remains in force for one month from the date of issue (14th April 2026), unless otherwise amended or extended by the Orders of the Chief of Defence Force.
