Transparency PNG asks PM Marape to combat corruption scandals in the middle of the growing public dissatisfaction

From the personnel reporter

Port Moresby – Transparency Papua -Neuguinea (PNG) has issued Prime Minister James Marape a strict call, which demanded immediate and decisive measures against the ubiquitous corruption of the nation. The Watchdog organization emphasized a number of unresolved top-class cases, including the controversial Paraka scandal for legal payments, the financially harmful UBS loan and the alleged mismanagement at OK Tedi Mining Limited.

“The time for mere words is over; the prime minister has to demonstrate tangible measures,” said Peter Aitsi, chairman of transparency png. He pointed out that these unsolved scandals have significantly undermined public trust in the integrity of the government.

Since Prime Minister Marape took over an office in 2019 in 2019, she has repeatedly swore to eradicate corruption. However, transparency PNG claims that the performance of his administration was inadequate. The latest decisions by anti -corruption authorities have fueled skepticism about the government's commitment to this commitments. The group is now calling for independent studies on the above cases.

The Paraka Legal Payments case, in which millions affect allegations in fraudulent transactions, continues to throw out a long shadow. Similarly, the controversial UBS loan, which was connected to an oil business from 2014, led to considerable financial losses for PNG. The persistent financial irregularities at OK TEDI MINING passed on the concerns regarding the government and the accountability obligation.

Transparency PNG has also emphasized the urgent need to strengthen the independent commission against corruption (ICAC). Despite its foundation in 2020, the agency will be hindered by a lack of full business and delay in the appointment of crucial staff. The organization continues to come for judicial reforms to ensure that the persons responsible for corruption are held accountable.

The public's dissatisfaction is over PNG, a nation that is rich in natural resources in which mining and energy sectors are important generators. Citizens are increasingly loud about the need for transparency, since corruption distracts decisive means of essential public service. Transparency PNG insists that Prime Minister Marape must act immediately in order to rebuild the public's trust.

“This is a central moment for the Prime Minister to show a real leadership,” concluded Aitsi and underpins the urgency of the situation.

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