Approved for Release: 7 November 2026
Commissioner of Police David Manning has paused Officer Cadet recruitment to review regional underrepresentation and ensure the selection process is effective in representing all provinces across the nation.
“This is our nation’s police force. It must serve all Papua New Guineans and reflect the people of every province. Public confidence begins with a recruitment process that is fair and can stand up to scrutiny,” Commissioner Manning said.
“Applications for the current Officer Cadet recruitment process have seen less representation from some regions. I have paused the process before interviews begin because we need to understand the reasons for this. We will examine the concerns, establish the facts and advise the public of the outcome.
“We must recognise the barriers that can affect applications from different provinces.
“We have seen education standards, health standards and difficulties accessing supporting documentation contribute to underrepresentation in some regions. We cannot accept these barriers without examining them, and we will not ignore the people they affect.
“I expect this review to establish where applicants are falling short of the requirements and why, so we can uphold recruitment standards while ensuring people from every province have a fair opportunity to serve.
“3,304 Officer Cadet applications were received, with 1,485 applicants shortlisted for a first interview with RPNGC recruitment staff. The electronic systems employed by the RPNGC ensure that every application is transparent and can be reviewed, reinforcing accountability in recruitment.
“Let me be clear: recruitment standards will not be lowered. Building a force that reflects every province and maintaining high standards are responsibilities we must uphold together. Every applicant is assessed fairly against the required standards.
“Once the review is complete, recruitment will proceed to interviews, followed by physical evaluations for successful applicants. Candidates will be assessed on their suitability to train as officers and lead with discipline and integrity.
“A pause of a few weeks is a necessary step to protect confidence in this process. The people, the Government and applicants deserve assurance that selection is impartial and that candidates from every province have a fair opportunity to serve.
“Officer Cadet training will remain rigorous. Of more than 3,000 applicants in 2023, 63 began the three-year program and 54 were commissioned as Inspectors in October this year. We expect the best from the future leaders of our Police Force. Our responsibility is to build a capable, disciplined national police force that all Papua New Guineans can trust and see themselves reflected in.”
A public notice will be issued when the review is complete, advising applicants and the public of the outcome and the next steps in the Officer Cadet recruitment process.