Prime Minister James Marape has called on leaders and citizens across Papua New Guinea to embrace a national “reset” of the heart, mind, and character, saying genuine change in the country must begin with individuals and those entrusted with leadership.
Speaking at the National Day of Prayer and Repentance, Prime Minister Marape appealed to leaders from both the public and private sectors to reflect on their responsibilities and commit themselves to building a better Papua New Guinea.
He emphasized that the call for a national reset was not simply about changing policies or systems, but about transforming the mindset, character, and hearts of the people.
“Reset means a reset of mindset, character and the heart for change to take place,” Prime Minister Marape said.
He stressed that the responsibility for the country’s future did not rest solely with the government but belonged to every Papua New Guinean.
According to the Prime Minister, “Reset PNG” belongs to everyone, with leaders, families, communities, churches, businesses and individuals all having a role to play in bringing about positive change.
He reminded the nation of Papua New Guinea’s Christian foundation, saying Christianity had been embraced by the country’s forefathers and had remained an important part of the nation’s identity.
“PNG is declared a Christian country when our forefathers accepted the Christian faith,” he said describing Christianity as a unifying force capable of bringing people together despite the country’s many differences.
Prime Minister Marape acknowledged that the nation had experienced numerous challenges and major disasters over the years, with many Papua New Guineans enduring hardship and suffering.
However, he said the resilience of the people had enabled the country to survive difficult periods and continue moving forward.
“PNG has faced so many major disasters. The people have suffered terrible ordeals, but we survived and made it through.”
He encouraged Papua New Guineans to draw strength from their faith and to allow Christian principles to guide the country's leadership and development.
The Prime Minister called on leaders to place Christ at the centre of their decision-making, urging them to allow faith and moral values to influence decisions affecting the nation.
“Let Christ take the lead of every leadership decision, every family, every community and every development of this nation.”
He also delivered a message to the young people and children of Papua New Guinea, encouraging them to remain faithful to God as they grow and take up their responsibilities in the future.
“To the young children of this nation, never leave God. Always walk with God.”
Prime Minister Marape concluded that the National Day of Prayer and Repentance should not be viewed simply as a one-day event, but as an opportunity for every citizen to reflect on their lives and make a renewed commitment to positive change.
He urged those who participated in the event to leave with a renewed sense of purpose and a transformed outlook.
“Leave this event today with a new, reset heart and mind,” he said.
The Prime Minister’s message placed emphasis on personal responsibility, national unity, faith and leadership, calling on Papua New Guineans to collectively work towards a nation guided by stronger values, integrity and a commitment to positive change.
He said the future of Papua New Guinea depends on the willingness of its people and leaders to make that change beginning with themselves.
