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Peoples Anti-Corruption Movement Launches Legal Battle Against Finance Minister and Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea

Peoples Anti-Corruption Movement Launches Legal Battle Against Finance Minister and Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea

The Peoples Anti-Corruption Movement of Papua New Guinea has initiated legal proceedings against Reinbo Paita, the Minister for Finance, and James Marape, the Prime Minister and Minister for Treasury. The motion, set for hearing on February 21, 2024, is based on alleged non-compliance with the Public Finances Management Act, which mandates the submission of government financial reports for auditing and presentation to Parliament. Over the past two decades, it's claimed that financial reports haven't been submitted, raising concerns about accountability. Allegations include misuse of funds in various projects like the National Agriculture Development Project, the failed public servants housing scheme, and the excessive expenditure on events like the South Pacific Games and APEC 2018. Of particular concern are allegations related to the Covid-19 economic rescue package and the Connect PNG Program.

Image of Papua New Guinea man with a hat.

Image: Mr. John Endemongo Kua

Legal Action Against Finance Minister and Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea

In a bold move against corruption, the Peoples Anti-Corruption Movement has taken legal action against Reinbo Paita, the Minister for Finance, and James Marape, the Prime Minister and Minister for Treasury. The motion, scheduled for hearing at 9:30 am on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, has been filed under Section 51 of the constitution, invoking the right to public information.

The crux of the matter lies in the alleged failure of the ministers to comply with the Public Finances Management Act, which mandates the submission of government financial reports to the office of the Auditor General for auditing and subsequent presentation to Parliament. Over the past two decades, this legal obligation has purportedly been disregarded, leading to widespread concern over financial accountability.

Among the multitude of financial irregularities cited are instances with significant political implications, including the controversial National Agriculture Development Project (NADP), the failed public servants housing scheme, the exorbitant expenditure on the South Pacific Games, the contentious Oil Search UBS Loan, APEC 2018 expenditure, and the Covid-19 economic rescue package.

Image of Papua New Guinea UBS Loan deal and its beneficiaries.

(The UBS Loan Deal Beneficiaries)

Of particular concern are allegations surrounding the misuse of funds allocated for critical initiatives such as the Covid-19 economic rescue package and the Connect PNG Program. These accusations have prompted the Peoples Anti-Corruption Movement to seek judicial intervention, aiming to hold accountable those responsible for financial mismanagement.

Furthermore, the government's purported suppression of the Auditor General's office, manifested through budgetary constraints hindering its effectiveness, has raised serious questions about transparency and oversight. The inadequacy of funding allocated to law enforcement agencies, including the Police force, the National Intelligence Organisation, the Judiciary, and the Ombudsman Commission, has exacerbated concerns regarding accountability and governance.

Mr. John Endemongo Kua, representing the Peoples Anti-Corruption Movement, emphasized the gravity of the situation, calling for urgent action to combat widespread fraud perpetrated by politicians and bureaucrats. The legal proceedings represent a pivotal moment in Papua New Guinea's fight against corruption, with the outcome poised to shape the nation's future trajectory.

As the hearing approaches, anticipation mounts regarding the potential ramifications of this landmark case. Papua New Guinea awaits with bated breath as the judiciary prepares to adjudicate on matters of national significance, signaling a decisive step towards combating corruption and upholding the principles of accountability and transparency in governance.

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