Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has extended his congratulations to two newly appointed Vice-Ministers of State, who were officially sworn in today at Government House.
The two Vice-Ministers took their oaths before the Governor General, His Excellency Sir Bob Dadae. They are:
1. Hon. Stanley Muts Samban (Wewak MP) – Vice-Minister for Defence
2. Hon. Francis Kikin Siune (Kerowagi MP) – Vice-Minister for Public Service
In his remarks, Prime Minister Marape acknowledged the growing demands on Ministers of State across various portfolios since Papua New Guinea’s Independence in 1975. He emphasized that the appointment of Vice-Ministers, including today’s, is aimed at enhancing service delivery through targeted support in key areas of government.
“As someone who began as a Vice-Minister before becoming a Minister and eventually Prime Minister, I encourage our newly appointed Vice-Ministers to give their utmost best,” stated Prime Minister Marape.
“Their work in supporting the Ministers will be vital as we move forward.”
“I congratulate the two new Vice-Ministers who have been sworn in today. They are Wewak MP Hon. Stanley Muts Samban (Social Democratic Party) and Kerowagi MP Hon. Francis Kikin Siune (Pangu Pati). These two gentlemen are selected on merit and experience, and we place our trust and confidence in them to support the respective Ministers of State accordingly in these important times in our country’s history and development.
Alongside their duties to their electorates, they will also contribute to nation-building through the
Ministries of Defence and Public Service,” the Prime Minister said.
Prime Minister Marape commended Wewak MP Hon. Samban on his appointment as Vice- Minister for Defence, underscoring the Ministry’s significance for national security and disaster preparedness.
“The Defence Ministry requires coordination with our Defence Force to ensure effective service delivery and discipline within the Force. It also demands a quick response in times of disaster. Additionally, the Defence Ministry plays a role in Youth Mobilisation and Empowerment in communities. Vice-Minister Samban has a track record in mobilizing youth in Wewak District and has delivered well for his electorate since his election in 2023. We trust he will support the Defence Minister effectively,” said Prime Minister Marape.
On the appointment of Vice-Minister Siune to the Ministry of Public Service, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of an efficient Public Service sector as Papua New Guinea approaches its 50th Independence anniversary.
“The PNG Public Service machinery is where government operations happen, and we are working to address some legacy issues to ensure an effective public service for our country,” Prime Minister Marape stated.
“With Vision 2050, MTDP IV, and other objectives ahead of us, we need a high-quality public service. We’re introducing contract-based engagements for public servants to enhance accountability, as we spend K240 million on salaries fortnightly. Performance and service delivery remain my focus, and Vice-Minister Siune’s support to the Public Service Minister will be crucial in achieving these goals.”
Another Vice-Minister appointment and swearing-in is anticipated soon as the Marape-Rosso Government strengthens its focus on addressing the nation’s key issues and delivering the high- quality services the people of Papua New Guinea deserve.