The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has entered a new leadership chapter, with the appointment of Retired Judge Don Sawong as the  Acting Commissioner and Thomas Eluh transitioning to the role of Acting Deputy Commissioner (Prevention and Corporate).

Both leaders have delivered a united message to Papua New Guineans: the fight against corruption remains firmly on course.

The ICAC’s Appointment Committee’s  decision to appoint Retired Judge Don Sawong as Acting Commissioner follows an ongoing recruitment process to fill the Commission’s substantive leadership positions.

For outgoing Acting Commissioner Thomas Eluh, the transition reflects the strength of the Commission’s governance framework and the maturity of an institution built to serve Papua New Guinea beyond individual leaders.

“I respect the decision of the ICAC Appointments Committee and welcome the appointment of Retired Judge Don Sawong as Acting Commissioner during this transitional period,” Mr Eluh said.

“I congratulate Retired Judge Don Sawong, who is an experienced and capable leader, on his appointment and assure him of my full cooperation,” Mr Eluh said.

Mr Eluh assumed the role of Acting Commissioner during a period when the Commission required stability and renewed confidence

“I was appointed Acting Commissioner at a time when the ICAC was facing leadership challenges and required stability and direction. My responsibility was to restore leadership, order, and confidence within the organisation, and I believe that objective has been achieved,” he said.

Reflecting on his leadership journey since helping establish the Commission’s foundations in 2018, Mr Eluh expressed pride in the progress made by the ICAC staff and stakeholders in building the ICAC.

“We have worked collectively to build the foundations of an independent anti-corruption institution for Papua New Guinea. I am proud of the progress made through the dedication of our staff so far,” he said.

Incoming Acting Commissioner Retired Judge Don Sawong acknowledged Mr Eluh’s contribution to the Commission’s growth, describing his leadership as instrumental during both the establishment and interim and the operational phases of the ICAC.

“I wish to acknowledge and thank the former Acting Commissioner, Mr Thomas Eluh, for his exemplary leadership, dedication and service to the Commission,” he said.

“From guiding the Interim ICAC through its formative years to serving as Acting Commissioner from July 2025 to July 2026, Mr Eluh provided the stability and direction that enabled the Commission to continue fulfilling its mandate. His contribution has laid a strong foundation upon which we will continue to build.”

Retired Judge Sawong said he was honoured by the confidence placed in him by the ICAC Appointments Committee for entrusting him with the role.

“I am honoured and privileged to take on this responsibility and to serve the people of Papua New Guinea in this important role,” he said.

Both leaders emphasised that while leadership may change, the ICAC’s mandate remains constant.

Mr Eluh stressed that the Commission’s work belongs to the people of Papua New Guinea and must continue regardless of who occupies leadership positions.

“ICAC is bigger than any one individual, including me. It belongs to the people of Papua New Guinea, and its work must continue regardless of changes in leadership,” he said.

Retired Judge Sawong echoed those sentiments, assuring the public that the ICAC’s anti-corruption efforts would continue uninterrupted.

“I want to assure everyone that the work of the ICAC continues regardless of changes in leadership. Our mandate remains strong, and our commitment to combating corruption remains unwavering,” he said.

Retired Judge Sawong said one of his key priorities would be ensuring the Commission is strategically positioned to effectively tackle corruption across the country.

“As Acting Commissioner, one of my priorities is to ensure that the ICAC is strategically organised and positioned to effectively address corruption across the country,” he said adding that this would involve strengthening organisational structures, aligning priorities with the ICAC’s mandate, and ensuring the Commission remains focused on delivering meaningful outcomes for Papua New Guineans. He said these works are currently underway and would continue, with the focus on strengthening the ICAC as a credible and effective integrity institution.

“We will continue building on the progress that has been made and further develop the ICAC into a strong, credible and effective integrity institution that delivers on its responsibilities and meets the expectations of the public,” he said.

The new Acting Commissioner also thanked the ICAC staff for their professionalism, dedication and commitment to the Commission’s mission, recognising their role in advancing the Commission’s work.

“Together, we will remain focused on strengthening the Commission, upholding integrity, and serving the people of Papua New Guinea,” he said.

As ICAC enters this new phase of leadership, the message from both acting commissioners is clear: the Commission remains steadfast in its mission to prevent, investigate and combat corruption, while continuing to build a stronger institution dedicated to accountability, integrity and public trust.