MTOK MEDIA

MTOK MEDIA With MTOK Media, the future of communications is brighter, smarter, and more connected.

Customs seize 15kg of co***ne worth A$5.2M bound for AustraliaFriday 13th December,  2024  The PNG Customs Service has s...
13/12/2024

Customs seize 15kg of co***ne worth A$5.2M bound for Australia

Friday 13th December, 2024



The PNG Customs Service has successfully foiled an attempted co***ne smuggling operation by apprehending two foreign nationals at Jackson’s International Airport in Port Moresby after a record 15.02kg of co***ne were found in both of their luggage.

Customs Chief Commissioner David Towe said the drugs could have been sold for A$5.2 million on the streets in Australia if PNG Customs had not detected and seized the illegal cargo.

“Customs is the premier border agency in PNG mandated to secure our borders and protect our communities from illegal and illicit activities like this,” the Chief Commissioner stated. “Customs remains vigilant in its efforts to combat drug trafficking and protect the nation's borders from criminal elements.”

He said the two foreign nationals, both female, are Portuguese passport holders aged 20 and 23 respectively.

The individuals, who had entered PNG on December 2, 2024, under the guise of tourists, were detained on December 7, 2024, just moments before boarding a Qantas flight bound for Brisbane, Australia.

“As they were awaiting their departure, Customs officers intercepted and conducted an examination on their luggage”, the Chief Commissioner stated.

“The inspection revealed that both passengers were in possession of a total of thirteen (13) pieces of a swathed concealed white crystalline powder.”

Subsequent testing confirmed the presence of co***ne. The passengers were therefore detained and handed over to the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary for further investigations. The Chief Commissioner added that Customs will also conduct a parallel investigation relating to breaches of the Customs Act.

“Customs is committed and focused on identifying and disrupting those who attempt to import or export illicit substances at our borders,” the Chief Commissioner stated. “We will continue to work closely with our partners to protect the PNG community from the scourge of illicit drugs.”

“The PNG Customs Service is also committed to upholding the integrity of our borders and ensuring the safety and security of our citizens,” the Chief Commissioner added. “This successful interception sends a clear message that smuggling illicit substances will not be tolerated, and those who attempt such criminal acts will face the full force of the law.”

“We urge all travelers to adhere to Customs regulations and refrain from engaging in illegal activities that jeopardize the safety and well-being of our communities.

PM Marape Announces Partial Privatization of PNG PowerWednesday 11th December,  2024  Sydney, Australia -: Prime Ministe...
11/12/2024

PM Marape Announces Partial Privatization of PNG Power

Wednesday 11th December, 2024



Sydney, Australia -: Prime Minister Hon. James Marape today announced his government’s decision to partially privatize PNG Power Ltd, a state-owned enterprise, as part of broader reforms aimed at improving power supply operations and efficiency in Papua New Guinea.

Speaking at the PNG CORE Investment Week in Sydney, PM Marape revealed that the Cabinet approved the decision during one of its final meetings for the year. The move will see the State retain its interest in PNG Power Ltd (PNGPL) while transferring management and equity—assets valued at over K4 billion—to private investors.

“This will be the second decision Cabinet has made on PNGPL,” the Prime Minister stated. “An earlier decision examined the company’s power generation, retail, and distribution status.”

PM Marape highlighted PNG Power’s strategic importance, describing it as a significant investment opportunity due to its monopoly on the "first right to supply power" in Papua New Guinea. He encouraged potential investors to monitor for upcoming Expressions of Interest.

“Power supply is a strategic asset and investment, and PNG Power has two important assets. It has assets worth K4 billion in total, and more importantly, it has a monopoly in first right of supplying power with its community service obligation that it still holds,” he emphasized.

The Prime Minister also noted that up to 70% of the country remains without electricity. To address this, the government has initiated energy sector reforms, including issuing licenses to investors willing to partner with the government to extend power supply to underserved areas.

“We want to unlock power in our country by bringing cheaper, reliable, and cleaner power to our people at the earliest,” he said.

PM Marape further detailed the government’s long-term vision to transition to clean and green energy over the next 20 years, leveraging the country’s abundant hydro, thermal, wind, and solar resources.

He urged investors to seize opportunities in clean energy, with an eye on expanding power exports to neighboring countries such as Indonesia and Australia.

“I encourage investors to think big and take up these opportunities that are available in our country,” he added.

Minister Maru Directs Securities Commission to Investigate Newmont Corporation for Breach of AgreementWednesday 11th Dec...
11/12/2024

Minister Maru Directs Securities Commission to Investigate Newmont Corporation for Breach of Agreement

Wednesday 11th December, 2024



The Minister for International Trade and Investment, Hon. Richard Maru, has raised serious concerns about Newmont Corporation's decision to relocate its country office to Australia, calling it a direct violation of the commitments outlined in the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed with Papua New Guinea (PNG).

The MOA, reached on October 9, 2023, required Newmont Corporation to establish its head office in PNG as part of its obligations following the acquisition of Newcrest Interest. The move was intended to promote mutual economic benefits and uphold national interests.

Minister Maru described Newmont’s actions as undermining the spirit of the agreement, citing the redundancy of the PNG Country Manager position and the closure of its head office in PNG as breaches. He has directed the Securities Commission of PNG to investigate the matter thoroughly.

"This relocation decision contradicts the commitments Newmont made to Papua New Guinea when the MOA was signed," Minister Maru stated. "We must ensure foreign investors honor their agreements and prioritize PNG's national interests."

In response, Newmont Corporation defended its decision, attributing the changes to an internal reorganization aimed at supporting its global operations more effectively.

"Our operations, commitments, and legal arrangements in Papua New Guinea remain unchanged. We retain and will expand our office in Port Moresby," the company said in a statement. "These structural changes are designed to streamline our reporting processes, enhance operational safety, and manage the complexity of our global portfolio."

Newmont also highlighted its continued contributions to PNG, emphasizing its status as the largest company by market capitalization on the PNG Stock Exchange (PNGX). The company added that its presence has created new opportunities for local investors and strengthened PNG’s international financial reputation.

Wednesday 11th December, 2024  Picture Supplied
11/12/2024

Wednesday 11th December, 2024



Picture Supplied

Historic Gas Agreement Paves Way for Papua New Guinea's First Offshore Petroleum ProjectSydney, Australia, December 9, 2...
10/12/2024

Historic Gas Agreement Paves Way for Papua New Guinea's First Offshore Petroleum Project

Sydney, Australia, December 9, 2024



Papua New Guinea has taken a step towards energy sovereignty as Prime Minister Hon. James Marape announced the start of a historic Gas Agreement with Twinza Oil Ltd for the Pasca offshore gas project.
This landmark deal, hailed as a transformative moment for the nation, sets the foundation for the country’s first offshore petroleum project, located off the coast of Gulf Province.

“This Gas Agreement is a testament to our commitment to securing the best outcomes for Papua New Guinea,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“With an unprecedented 70% state take, we are ensuring that the benefits of this resource are channeled directly to our people. This is not just a project—it’s a step toward economic sovereignty and a brighter future for all Papua New Guineans.”

The agreement, which will be presented to the National Executive Council for approval and subsequently to the Governor-General for formal endorsement, includes taxes, royalties, and equity participation, all contributing to the 70% state take. It underscores the government's commitment to ensuring that the wealth generated benefits the nation.

The Pasca A Gas Project marks a critical milestone in Papua New Guinea’s energy journey, focusing initially on producing natural gas liquids such as condensate and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). The project will also establish infrastructure for liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, laying the groundwork for future energy ventures.

PM Marape noted the strategic significance of the project.
“This project isn’t just about energy production—it’s about positioning Papua New Guinea as a key player in the global energy market. The Pasca A Project will enhance our energy security, fulfill domestic market obligations, and create export opportunities, while opening the door to further exploration in the Gulf of Papua," he said.

First discovered in the 1960s, the Pasca field’s development is expected to generate over K500 million annually in revenue and create approximately 500 permanent jobs, delivering substantial benefits to Gulf Province.

“This project symbolises what Papua New Guinea can achieve when we prioritise unity and sustainability,” PM Marape said.
“As we approach our 50th anniversary of independence in 2025, this project reflects our nation’s resilience and potential. It is an example of how we can leverage our natural resources responsibly to uplift our people.”

A collaboration between the Mineral Resources Development Company Limited (MRDC) and Twinza Oil Ltd ensures local participation, with MRDC holding the potential to acquire up to a 50% stake in the project. Twinza will remain the project operator, ensuring the efficient ex*****on of the venture.

“As the nation prepares to celebrate its golden jubilee, the Pasca A Gas Project stands as a beacon of progress, unity, and sustainability. It is a symbol of what Papua New Guinea can achieve through collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to national development," PM Marape added.

Kisere Women’s Cooperative Leads Climate Action with Solar-Powered BoatMonday 9th December,  2024  For the Kisere Women’...
09/12/2024

Kisere Women’s Cooperative Leads Climate Action with Solar-Powered Boat

Monday 9th December, 2024



For the Kisere Women’s Cooperative Society in Gaire, Central Province, the launch of a solar-powered boat is more than an economic milestone—it is a symbol of their role as advocates for climate change action.

For centuries, fishing in their community has been a male-dominated activity, with traditional gender roles confining women to household duties, gardening, and gathering food.
However, on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, these norms were challenged when the cooperative received a solar-powered boat funded by the New Zealand Government through the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC).

This innovative vessel will not only empower the women to engage in fishing and increase economic activities but also marks a significant step in promoting sustainable, low-carbon technology.

What makes this milestone even more remarkable is that the women also earned Boat Masters Licenses (BML) and received training to operate and maintain the solar-powered boat. This training enables their active participation in the maritime sector, breaking barriers and advancing gender equality in a traditionally male domain.

The solar-powered boat project serves as a pilot initiative to foster community resilience against climate change through the adoption of sustainable technology.

SPC representative Tahina Booth commended the Kisere Women’s Cooperative for pioneering the project.

“This vessel is not just an asset but a symbol of progress in gender equality, environmental sustainability, and community empowerment,” Booth said.

Central Province Deputy Administrator Edward Kila expressed gratitude to the stakeholders, especially the New Zealand Government, for their generous support. He noted that the gift signals a new chapter for the Kisere Women and the Ward 1 area of the Gaire community.

“This is a historic event for the women, who are now able to take on a responsibility that was once reserved for men,” Kila stated.

New Zealand Ambassador, His Excellency Peter Zwart, highlighted the importance of the project in addressing gender equality and climate change.

“It is an honor for the New Zealand Government to fund this initiative, which empowers women to break barriers and contribute to the fight against climate change,” Zwart said.

Among the cooperative members, three women also graduated as certified boat operators, further strengthening their capabilities and independence.

MASS ARREST OF DRUNKARDS AT PORT MORESBY GENERAL HOSPITAL PREMISES.Sunday 8th December, 2024  Eighteen Digicel employees...
08/12/2024

MASS ARREST OF DRUNKARDS AT PORT MORESBY GENERAL HOSPITAL PREMISES.

Sunday 8th December, 2024



Eighteen Digicel employees were arrested early this morning for causing a disturbance at the Port Moresby General Hospital premises. The men, aged between 20 and 35, are currently detained at Boroko Police Station awaiting bail.

National Capital District Metropolitan Superintendent Silva Sika confirmed the arrests, stating that the group was consuming alcohol and creating noise that disrupted patients and visitors at the hospital. Police were alerted by concerned members of the public.

“Holala police officers on night duty quickly responded to the report and intercepted the suspects near the Susu Mama Clinic as they were about to leave the premises in a vehicle,” Sika said.

According to Superintendent Sika, the suspects were identified based on descriptions provided by the public. “When police spotted the vehicle, they stopped it and conducted a search, confirming the men matched the descriptions. The officers directed the driver to proceed to Holala Police Station, where the suspects were cautioned before being transferred to Badili Police Station for formal charging,” he explained.

The men were charged under Section 3 of the Summary Offences Act for drunkenness and later transported to Boroko Police Station for detention. Superintendent Sika emphasized that bail is available for those who can afford it, but those unable to pay will remain in custody until their court appearance tomorrow.

“I commend the Holala police officers and the Section Patrol Units for their swift response in apprehending the suspects,” Sika said. “This is a strong start to our festive season operations, which will be officially launched this week. I urge the public to act responsibly during celebrations and to respect others. Noise pollution is an offence, and we will enforce the law to ensure everyone can enjoy a peaceful environment.”

He further acknowledged the public’s role in reporting the incident. “I want to thank the public for reporting the group. Hospital premises are places of healing, and it’s vital that we maintain peace and respect for the sick. Drinking and creating disturbances in such areas is unacceptable,” he added.

The festive season operation aims to curb similar incidents and promote safety and order across the city.

NPL Signs Long-Term Compensation Agreements for Porgera Mine LandholdersSunday 8th December, 2024  Port Moresby, Papua N...
08/12/2024

NPL Signs Long-Term Compensation Agreements for Porgera Mine Landholders

Sunday 8th December, 2024



Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, December 8, 2024 — New Porgera Limited (NPL) has finalized Long-Term Compensation Agreements (LTCAs) with landholder representatives for 14 out of its 15 tenements requiring compensation.
This process adheres to the regulations under Part VII of the Mining Act 1992 and marks a critical step in fostering transparency and fairness in compensation practices.

“These agreements replace the Consent Compensation Agreements (CCAs) signed in late 2023,” NPL in a media release. The CCAs enabled the mine’s reopening on December 23, 2023, following extensive preparations and consultations. According to NPL, negotiations for the LTCAs began in February 2024, involving numerous transparent meetings to ensure "free, prior, and informed consent" from landholder agents. Between November 24 and December 4, an impressive 94% of landholder agents, or their authorized proxies, signed the agreements.

Karo Maha-Lelai, NPL's Country Manager, highlighted the agreements’ significance. "The LTCAs include increased compensation and provisions agreed with the Chief Mining Warden to improve transparency, clarify processes, and facilitate effective dispute resolution," she explained. Furthermore, NPL has committed to submitting annual compensation payment reports to the Mineral Resources Authority (MRA), enhancing oversight and accountability.

Despite this achievement, not all tenements are covered under the LTCAs. NPL was unable to engage with landholders of certain lands affected by a National Court order involving the Tieni-Yangua Incorporated Land Group. Additionally, the landholders for Mining Easement 119 chose not to sign the LTCA and will remain under the earlier CCA framework. "NPL respects their decision," the company stated.

Looking ahead, NPL plans to finalize the Community Development Agreement for Special Mining Lease 13.
"Our focus remains on ensuring fair and equitable benefit distribution across all tenements to uphold the social license for the mine’s lifespan," Maha-Lelai added.

Tegipo Primary School Celebrates 8th Grade 8 Graduation despite Rainy Weather Saturday 7th December, 2024    Tegipo Prim...
07/12/2024

Tegipo Primary School Celebrates 8th Grade 8 Graduation despite Rainy Weather

Saturday 7th December, 2024




Tegipo Primary School in the Southern Highlands Province marked a significant milestone last Friday, braving heavy rain to celebrate its graduation ceremony for over 100 students.
Excitement filled the air, but as the event was about to commence, nature had its own plans, showering the occasion with what some called "heaven’s blessings".

Despite the downpour, students sat in the rain, eagerly awaiting the arrival of a special guest, Mr. Kenneth Kuim Toap. A respected leader from Nembi Plateau, Mr. Toap’s presence and contributions left a lasting impression on the school and its surrounding communities.

Mr. Toap donated a laptop and printer to the school and presented the Grade 8 Dux Award to the top-performing student. His generosity was hailed as a blessing by the school board and residents of Tegipo, Sopmul, and Injua Two.

In his address, Mr. Toap noted the transformative role of education, calling Tegipo Primary School a "gold station" capable of nurturing future doctors, lawyers, accountants, and other professionals who will serve the community and the nation.

He also highlighted the importance of cultural heritage, urging families to prioritize local education. “Our children need to grow up understanding their customs, traditions, and family lineage. This will instill a sense of belonging and encourage them to maintain ties with home,” he said.

The event also celebrated the leadership of the school’s head teacher, who has steered the institution through challenges to maintain its reputation as one of the top-performing schools in the Southern Highlands Province. His dedication to fostering academic excellence and creating a conducive learning environment was widely applauded.

We've received 100 reactions to our News posts in the past 30 days. Thanks for your support. 🙏🤗🎉
07/12/2024

We've received 100 reactions to our News posts in the past 30 days. Thanks for your support. 🙏🤗🎉

05/12/2024

Have a story to share or news that needs to be covered? Message us, and let us help you bring your story to life.

Pomat Voices Concerns Over Manus Development in ParliamentWednesday 4th December,  2024  Speaker of Parliament Hon Job P...
04/12/2024

Pomat Voices Concerns Over Manus Development in Parliament

Wednesday 4th December, 2024



Speaker of Parliament Hon Job Pomat has raised concerns about the state of his district and province, Manus.
Returning from a visit to the province, he shared observations and sought clarity on key issues affecting the area.

One of the primary concerns he raised was regarding the naval base in Manus.
Pomat questioned the Prime Minister Hon James about the status of a contract associated with the base, stating that the contracted company was scaling down its operations.
He expressed dismay over reports that usable materials, including machinery and power tools, were being destroyed and buried in pits instead of being repurposed.
Pomat argued that these materials could have been handed over to the Manus Provincial Government to aid local development initiatives.

Reflecting on the inception of the asylum seekers program in Manus, Pomat noted that while the program initially brought significant aid to the province, the area has not benefitted equitably from subsequent funding. Citing an example, he pointed out that when significant funding for hospitals was provided by the Australian and Papua New Guinea governments, most of the money went to Angau Hospital, leaving Manus with only a small allocation.

Pomat also highlighted the dire state of educational infrastructure in his district, with school dormitories and classrooms falling into disrepair.
He stated that the District Development Authority was scrambling to secure funds to rehabilitate these buildings during the holiday period.
He reiterated his plea for access to the materials being discarded at the naval base, noting that they could be repurposed for these much-needed renovations.

In response, PM Marape acknowledged the contributions of the people of Manus and thanked them for their efforts in supporting the work at the naval base.
He assured Parliament that he would request a full briefing from the Defence Minister regarding the demobilization of contractors and the handling of leftover materials.

Marape announced that Manus would receive its allocated budget for 2025, with additional special support earmarked for the province.
He also committed to bolstering the education sector in Manus, noting that while part of the funding for restoration had already been delivered, the remaining support would soon follow.

PM Marape stressed Manus’ historical importance as a human resource capital in PNG's early days.
He also revealed plans to transform the former asylum seekers' center into a college, although he acknowledged that ground-level issues needed to be resolved first.

Marape assured the House that he would engage with the Australian High Commissioner to discuss the situation further.
He also pledged to investigate the materials left behind at the naval base and ensure that salvageable resources were reserved for Manus’ development.

PM Marape said that Manus, like every other province, is entitled to its fair share of national support.

Picture supplied: RNZ

Wednesday 04rd December, 2024  AFP and PNG police Incinerates Seized co***ne in Alleged PNG Import AttemptSenior police ...
04/12/2024

Wednesday 04rd December, 2024



AFP and PNG police Incinerates Seized co***ne in Alleged PNG Import Attempt

Senior police officers from Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Australia oversaw the destruction of 500kg of co***ne seized in 2020 after a "black flight" suspected of smuggling the drugs to Australia crashed.

The co***ne, confiscated in PNG and later sent to the Australian Federal Police (AFP) for forensic testing and secure storage, was incinerated on November 28, 2024, at a secure facility in Queensland.

Operation Weathers, a joint investigation led by the AFP, Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC), Queensland and Victoria Police, Australian Border Force (ABF), and the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC), targeted a criminal syndicate accused of attempting to smuggle co***ne worth approximately $800 million from PNG to Queensland in July 2020.

The operation led to charges against five men in Australia and four in PNG after a light aircraft crashed north of Port Moresby on July 26, 2020.
Five days later, the RPNGC discovered the co***ne linked to the flight. In September 2024, the PNG National Court of Justice sentenced the men to prison terms ranging from 18 to 19 years and ordered the destruction of the drugs, with a senior RPNGC officer present to witness the process.

RPNGC Deputy Commissioner Donald Yamasombi and AFP Commander Stephen Jay supervised the transfer of the co***ne from a secure AFP vault to the Queensland facility for incineration.

Commander Jay highlighted the significance of the seizure, noting the co***ne’s potential value in 2020. “It is now worth nothing, thanks to the cooperation and tenacity of all the agencies involved in Operation Weathers,” he said. “Had it reached Australia, it could have been sold in approximately 500,000 street deals, causing considerable harm in the community.”

Deputy Commissioner Yamasombi emphasized the shared impact of the illicit drug trade on both nations. “The illicit drug trade hurts both our countries in similar ways. As drugs transit through PNG, our communities suffer from violence and criminality associated with this harmful trade,” he said. “Australia, as the destination country, faces similar challenges, along with the societal and health impacts caused by drug use. Our nations have worked together successfully to achieve a mutually satisfying outcome.”

The AFP uses specialized waste disposal facilities to destroy seized illicit substances. These drugs are vaporized into steam in a furnace, and the remaining liquid undergoes multiple filtration processes, reducing it to a harmless ash-like substance. AFP members monitor every step of the destruction process and remain on-site until the drugs are fully destroyed.

Caption: RPNGC Deputy Commissioner Donald Yamasombi (right)and AFP Commander Stephen Jay supervised the transfer of the co***ne from a secure AFP vault to the Queensland facility for incineration.
Picture supplied

Police - NCD/Central Divisional Command
ENDS

Kiponge Acquitted of Abuse of Office ChargesMonday 2nd December,  2024  The Committal Court has acquitted Rex Kiponge, f...
02/12/2024

Kiponge Acquitted of Abuse of Office Charges

Monday 2nd December, 2024



The Committal Court has acquitted Rex Kiponge, former Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the National Airports Corporation Limited (NAC), of all abuse of office charges.
The charges, initially brought forward in 2021 by Civil Aviation Minister Hon. Walter Schnaubelt, were dismissed today due to want of prosecution, bringing an end to a protracted legal saga.

The court's ruling clears Mr. Kiponge’s name, with the judge citing insufficient evidence to justify further proceedings.

Kiponge in a statement said the case weighed heavily on his career, tarnishing his reputation and stalling his leadership at the NAC.

Outside the courtroom, a visibly relieved Kiponge addressed the media, stating: "Justice has finally prevailed. This has been an ichallenging journey for my family and me, but we have remained steadfast in our faith in the truth.”

The verdict has ignited calls from supporters urging his reinstatement as NAC’s CEO, citing his previous accomplishments, which include organizational reforms and fostering a cohesive work environment.
During his tenure, Kiponge was praised for his initiatives and efforts to modernize the country’s airport infrastructure.

Kiponge’s acquittal also raises broader questions about the integrity of the charges brought against him, with some labeling the case as politically motivated.
“This was a malicious prosecution,” Kiponge said highlighting the emotional toll the case had taken.

Kiponge added that he stands vindicated, ready to move forward, and determined to rebuild his legacy.

2024 Budget Sparks Outrage Over Mismanagement and Mounting DebtSunday 1st December,  2024  Papua New Guinea’s 2024 Natio...
01/12/2024

2024 Budget Sparks Outrage Over Mismanagement and Mounting Debt

Sunday 1st December, 2024



Papua New Guinea’s 2024 National Budget, once seen as a beacon of hope for development, has been labeled a colossal failure.

Deputy Opposition Leader Hon. James Nomane sounded the alarm on what he calls "widespread mismanagement and selective fund allocation". He said with a K27.378 billion budget that failed to deliver full allocations to ministries or the K20 million in district funding promised to Members of Parliament (MPs), the nation is now grappling with serious questions about fiscal responsibility.

He said despite the ambitious budget, vital programs were underfunded.

He said the pledged K20 million package for MPs—consisting of K10 million for the District Services Improvement Program (DSIP), K5 million for the Public Investment Program (PIP), and K5 million in Infrastructure Grants—was never delivered.
Nomane claimed that instead, funds were redirected through what he described as "selective warranting," a controversial practice that limits fund disbursement to chosen areas, thereby compromising transparency and effectiveness.

"In 2024 alone, the government borrowed K3.983 billion, bringing total borrowing since 2019 to K37 billion, with the national debt now sitting at K62 billion. Yet, promised improvements in healthcare, education, policing, and infrastructure remain unseen," Nomane said.
"The proposed 2025 Budget, which calls for an additional K2.949 billion in borrowing, is expected to push the debt to nearly K65 billion."

Nomane accused the Prime Minister Hon James Marape and Treasurer Ian Ling-Stuckey of weaponizing the budget. “The 2024 Budget has been used as a political tool to manipulate MPs,” Nomane stated.
“Many fear losing their positions or funding if they speak out, which is weak leadership.”
He criticized the lack of equitable resource distribution, adding that the selective allocation of funds undermines democracy and national development.
Nomane expressed dismay over the lack of tangible outcomes from the massive borrowing. “Had the K37 billion been invested wisely, Papua New Guinea would be one of the fastest-growing economies,” he said. Instead, the country faces increased taxes and inflation.
He also took aim at the government’s 13-year debt recovery plan, which aims for a mere K81 million surplus by 2027.
“A K81 million surplus is not an achievement when K37 billion has been borrowed,” Nomane argued.

Nomane urged MPs to reject the 2025 Budget unless mechanisms for accountability and transparency are established.
He highlighted questionable projects such as Connect PNG and the Western Province Agro-Forestry initiative as examples of reckless spending.
“The 2025 Budget must address the misuse of funds or it is not worth supporting,” he warned.

In a call to action, Nomane reminded his colleagues that “history is our best teacher".
He said that the poor spending quality of the 2024 Budget must not be repeated.

Address

Port Moresby

Opening Hours

Monday 09:00 - 17:00
Tuesday 09:00 - 17:00
Wednesday 09:00 - 17:00
Thursday 09:00 - 17:00
Friday 09:00 - 17:00
Saturday 09:00 - 17:00
Sunday 09:00 - 17:00

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when MTOK MEDIA posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Videos

Share