Catholic Professionals urge leaders to tackle corruption and restore Justice

Port Moresby: The Catholic Professionals Society of Papua New Guinea is calling on government leaders and law enforcement agencies to take urgent action to alleviate corruption and bring back peace and order in the country.

Panellists of the Press Conference from left to right: Catholic Professionals Society President Mr Paul Harricknen, OL and Lawyer Mr Ralf Saulep.

The message came after the CPS held its Annual Retreat in Bomana. The group said the country is facing serious problems because many leaders are abusing their power, stealing public money, and failing to do their jobs.

Mr. Paul Harricknen, the President of CPS, said many people are suffering because of poor leadership and failure by law and justice institutions.

“The people trusted politicians to serve the country, but they have failed. Meanwhile, our top public servants are doing little to stop corruption.”

He said police are arresting and beating young people for small crimes while corrupt politicians and senior public servants continue to abuse their positions without punishment.

“This is unfair. It makes young people lose hope and turn to crime,” he added.

Mr. Harricknen also said that violence, tribal fights, drug abuse, and crimes against women and girls are getting worse, and the government is not doing enough to help.

He reminded the country that in 2019, leaders promised that PNG would become “the richest black Christian nation on earth” by 2029.

But today, PNG is known as one of the most dangerous countries, even though it is rich in resources like oil, gas, and gold"

The CPS said that strong action is needed now to address the situation and restore the nation’s image. CPS questioned why government watchdogs like the Ombudsman Commission, ICAC, Police, and Public Prosecutor are not acting strongly against corrupt leaders.

Mr. Harricknen warned that people’s freedom and democracy are being taken away through new laws such as changes to the Constitution and laws like the Anti-Terrorism Act and Cybercrime laws.

“These laws are being used against ordinary citizens. This is not right,” he said. “Public service has been taken over by politicians. Public servants can no longer work freely.”

The Catholic Professionals are supporting  Sir John Cardinal Ribat’s earlier call to arrest and charge Members of Parliament and public officials who misuse public funds.

They said leaders who break the Leadership Code should resign, even if they have not been taken to court.

The CPS also called for Members of Parliament to work together to reform the election system and ensure free, fair, and safe elections in the future.

“This is about the survival of our people and our nation. Leaders must do their job with honesty and integrity,” Mr. Harricknen said.

The group also welcomed the Supreme Court’s order to recall Parliament on 31st of  March 2025, and urged MPs to choose good leadership during the session.

“We pray that MPs will vote with their hearts and do what is right for the people not just for their own political gain.”

“May God bless our beloved country, Papua New Guinea,” Mr. Harricknen said.