The National Doctors Association (NDA) has raised serious concerns over the prolonged delay by the National Government in appointing a permanent Secretary for the Department of Health, warning that the leadership vacuum is undermining stability and progress in one of Papua New Guinea’s most vital public institutions.
In a formal letter addressed to Prime Minister James Marape and Health Minister Elias Kapavore, the NDA expressed frustration that the position has remained unfilled for 13 to 14 months, despite repeated calls from health workers and sector partners for urgent action.
According to the association, Acting Secretary Ken Wai, a seasoned health administrator, has been holding the position under two officially gazetted acting extensions.
The second extension expired on 11 November 2025.
As of the time the letter was written, 27 days had passed without any new gazettal to either extend Mr Wai’s acting role or appoint a permanent Secretary.
This has left the department without a legally recognised head during a period of significant national health challenges.
The NDA emphasized that Mr Wai has performed strongly while in the acting role.
Outgoing Secretary Dr Osborne Liko, in his official handover report, described Wai’s leadership as “outstanding,” a sentiment that was echoed by key health sector stakeholders, including Church Health Services and international partners working closely with the Department of Health.
These endorsements, the NDA argued, further highlight the urgency of resolving the leadership gap rather than prolonging uncertainty.
The association noted that the department is responsible for life-saving work, overseeing public health, curative services, medical supply chains and overall sector planning.
Any disruption or uncertainty in leadership, they warned, risks slowing down essential reforms and weakening service delivery.
The letter pointed out that the Department of Health is currently in the final stages of major restructuring to align with the National Health Plan 2021–2030 and broader government priorities.
“Without a permanent Secretary, these ongoing reforms could stall at a time when effective and stable guidance is needed more than ever.
The NDA also addressed recent concerns about medical supply shortages and public criticism directed toward the department.
“While acknowledging these issues, the association welcomed recent updates that medical supplies including essential medicines have been secured through front-loading measures expected to last until June 2026.
It congratulated the Health Minister, senior management and the government for stabilising the supply chain.
Nevertheless, the letter stressed that success in securing medical supplies must be strengthened by strong administrative leadership to ensure continuity, accountability and efficient distribution.
Another major concern highlighted in the letter was the leaked shortlist of candidates for the Secretary’s position that circulated on social media, causing widespread speculation and debate.
The NDA called on the government to honour its earlier commitment to conduct a full investigation into the leak and release its findings to restore confidence in the appointment process.
The letter ends with an urgent appeal to Prime Minister Marape and Minister Kapavore, stating that the country, the health workforce and development partners all require immediate clarity.
The association insisted that the leadership vacuum must be resolved without further delay, stressing that the effectiveness of PNG’s health system and the welfare of its citizens depends on strong, stable and transparent leadership from the top.
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