The Department of Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs (DPLGA) has received eleven (11) new Senior Provincial Monitoring Officers (SPMOs) to carry out the duties of the department in the provinces.
The 11 of twenty (20) newly appointed Senior Provincial Monitoring Officers (SPMOs) from the Department deployed to provinces, have officially signed their employment contracts.
DPLGA Secretary, Philip Leo, announced that the officers are the first appointees to fill newly created positions established under the Department's recent organizational restructure.
"The deployment of the SPMOs is a key initiative under the Reset@50 Agenda, aimed at strengthening governance, accountability and service delivery throughout the country.
"Taking the Oath is a serious commitment to the Nation. Public officers must uphold transparency, accountability, and honesty, especially within a system that has historically faced governance challenges.
"This oath is not merely an Administrative Act; it is a pledge to serve with integrity and responsibility. We have the power and the laws to make a difference. It is time to reset and rebuild trust with our people," Secretary Leo challenged them.
He called for a renewed commitment to reorganize, rebuilding and upholding high standards in the public service, beginning with personal accountability.
Secretary Leo reminded the officers that by signing their contracts and taking their oath, they were making a solemn commitment to the Nation.
"Your commitment is built on transparency, accountability and integrity. Any breach of your contract or oath of office will result in immediate termination," he said.
The responsibilities of the SPMOs are grounded in Section 110(3) of the Organic Law on Provincial Governments and Local-level Governments.
The key responsibilities of the SPMOs include:
Monitoring and overseeing the operations of District Development Authorities (DDAs), Local-level Governments (LLGs), Wards, LLG Special Purpose Authorities (SPAs), Town and City Authorities.
Enforcing the timely submission of Annual Financial Statements, due on 31 March each year, and Provincial Performance Reports, due on 30 June annually.
Conducting on-site verification and reliability audits of infrastructure projects to ensure that reported developments accurately reflect actual implementation.
Monitoring the rollout of the DPLGA National Framework for Ward Development and ensuring that funds allocated to LLGs are invested in five priority development areas: Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), Early Childhood Education, Community Health and Hygiene, Community Peace and Order and Solar Energy initiatives.
The 11 SPMOs also recently completed a one-week induction training program conducted by the Somare Institute of Leadership and Governance (SILAG).
Among the 11 was Mrs. Dorothy Kisau Kukum- female officer deployed to the Enga Province.
