Lupari: Politicisation of public service can lead to misuse of funds

POLITICISATION of the public service can result in encroachment in public finances, tenders and procurement and recruitment, former chief secretary Isaac Lupari says.“This can in turn lead to the misuse or inefficient application of public funds and appointment of officials based on political preferences, views or loyalty rather than technical skills or expertise,” he said.“As a consequence, there can be an erosion of accountability, an increase in duplication and sometimes, a breakdown of the systems and structures that provide for the neediest in our communities.“Sadly, for Papua New Guinea, our public service is trending towards this path. “This is a recipe for major disaster, given our diversity in culture and tradition.”Lupari said PNG had a proud history of maintaining an impartial public service, “taken from the vision of our founding fathers”.“I myself have served in five senior positions over a period of more than 32 years, under six different prime ministers,” he said.“I was not just gifted those positions. I competed on merit. “In the early years of my service, I was mentored by some of our nation’s great minds and in turn I served as chief secretary to government, not just once, but on two occasions and under three prime ministers. “In all of my roles, my job was to serve the government of the day. “To provide frank and fearless advice, based on technical and lawful assessment.“Politics did not play a role as many will know. I ceased in my role as chief secretary at the end of last year after the Government enacted amendments to law to abolish the position. I respect that decision.“It was a decision of the government of the day and supported by the majority of members on the floor of the House. “My concern is not so much the decision that was made, but the possible long-term consequences that may arise. “Without a focal point within the public service, and with secretaries becoming more beholden to ministers, there is a danger that our public service may become politicised and fail to provide the accountability that our people deserve.“Those without qualification may be appointed to roles that they have no experience to hold. And in turn, the efficiency and accountability of the public service will begin to subside. “Now is the time for strong leadership to restore the independence of the public service.”