PNG PM calls for focus on services ahead of elections

Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea (PNG) Peter O'Neill called on government officials on Thursday to carry on the job of delivering services to the people, ahead of the national elections in June.

The official election process begins on Friday, with PNG Governor General Bob Dadae set to issue the writs to formally begin the electoral proceedings in the capital of Port Moresby.

O'Neill called the department heads to a meeting in Mendi in the Southern Highlands, according to local media, and issued them with a clear message on how to proceed during what could turn out to be a tumultuous time for the small island nation.

"I urge you to stay focused on your jobs. Over the next three months, you are tasked to maintain the public service and continue delivering to our people. Leave the politics to the politicians," O'Neill said.

The Papuan leader urged his executive staff to remain committed, despite the result of the elections, and called on them to set an example for good governance.

"If you stop functioning, it doesn't matter what policies and dreams we have as leaders, they will never be achieved," O'Neil said.

"It does not matter who comes into government, the main thing is that the public service must be resolute in its stand."

O'Neill told the civil servants that he was proud of their efforts for his government during his current term, stressing that they should come to him directly if anyone was found not to be doing their jobs over the coming months as the election process unfolds.

"If any of your ministers are not complying with the process and standards that is expected of him or her, you have every right to complain to me." Endit