The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) today held an official handover ceremony, marking the transition of the Acting Commissioner role from Thomas Eluh to retired Judge Don Sawong. The event was witnessed by commission staff and members of the media.
The event provided an opportunity to acknowledge the leadership and contributions of outgoing Acting Commissioner and Acting Deputy Commissioner Thomas Eluh, while reaffirming the new Acting Commissioner’s commitment to advancing the Commission’s mandate through its three strategic pillars: Prevention, Education and Awareness, and Enforcement, supported by a fit-for-purpose organisational structure designed to prevent and combat corruption.
Mr Eluh welcomed the appointment Retired Judge Sawong, describing it as a positive step for the Commission’s continued growth and effectiveness. He expressed confidence in retired judge Sawong’s leadership and pledged his full support in working collaboratively with him to advance the Commission’s strategic priorities and achieve its planned objectives. He emphasised the importance of continuity in leadership and teamwork in strengthening the ICAC’s efforts to uphold integrity, accountability, and public trust.
“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.
He vowed to work closely with the two Acting Commissioners and the ICAC executive team to ensure the Commission remains firmly focused on its enforcement pillar while continuing to strengthen its anti-corruption efforts
Meanwhile, the incoming acting commissioner in his remarks, thanked the ICAC Appointment Committee for the confidence placed in him and acknowledged the work carried out by the Commission’s leadership and staff.
The Acting Commissioner Retired Judge Sawong emphasised that effective enforcement is critical to deterring corrupt practices and maintaining public confidence and said he looked forward to fostering strong collaboration across all areas of the Commission to deliver meaningful outcomes.
“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.
“When the three of us assumed these responsibilities in June 2025, our immediate priority was to restore stability in the leadership of this young institution to continue to grow and mature. I am pleased that this has been achieved,” Acting Commissioner Sawong said.
He emphasised his plans for this term as acting deputy commissioner is to focus on the areas that will have an impact on preventing and addressing corruption.
The ceremony concluded with a reaffirmation of the Commission’s commitment to its anti-corruption mandate and its determination to work collectively towards building a transparent, accountable, and corruption-free Papua New Guinea.
Staff and members of the media witnessed the formal exchange through a cake cutting ceremony, symbolising a memorable transition of leadership and a shared commitment to advancing the ICAC’s mission.