PRIME Minister Hon. James Marape has reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance, announcing that
a special audit into the Connect PNG Infrastructure Programme is already underway.
The high-level audit, led by Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu and Norths Projects Ltd, an internationally recognised engineering firm, will assess the entire Connect PNG Programme following allegations of corruption and mismanagement.
The audit will provide an independent, professional review of the programme’s financial integrity and performance to ensure that Connect PNG delivers on its mandate of linking the country through modern road networks.
“Our government has always upheld high standards of transparency. We do not tolerate
impropriety or corruption in our systems. Based on widespread concerns, including the allegations last year branding Connect PNG as a corrupt scheme, we committed to a full audit of the programme,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“This is why we have engaged Deloitte, one of the world’s leading accounting firms, alongside an internationally reputable engineering firm, to conduct a thorough assessment of Connect PNG. Their review will not only verify the integrity of the programme but also ensure that every kina is spent correctly, and that roads are built to proper engineering standards,” he added.
The special audit, which officially commenced in February 2025, will involve physical inspections of Phase One projects across eight provinces, marking the first comprehensive review of the programme since its launch.
The Prime Minister reiterated that the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) is the first national agency to join the audit team, providing security and logistical support to ensure a fair and effective assessment.
This audit will determine whether any financial irregularities have occurred, and if so, those
responsible will face legal consequences. At the same time, those wrongly accused will have an opportunity to clear their names.
“If there has been any mismanagement, corruption, or unethical conduct, those responsible will be prosecuted and punished accordingly. But if these allegations are found to be baseless, those who have been falsely accused will have the opportunity to seek legal redress for reputational damage,” PM Marape said.
Prime Minister Marape emphasised that Connect PNG is a critical infrastructure programme
designed to provide essential road networks to all parts of the country—a mission that must not be compromised by corruption or inefficiency.
“For too long, PNG has remained disconnected, with large parts of the country still inaccessible by road, even after almost 50 years of independence. Connect PNG is about changing this reality and ensuring that our growing population and economy have the infrastructure needed for long-term sustainability,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape also revealed that his government is working on a new policy to expand independent auditing across all government agencies. Moving forward, any department or agency facing allegations of mismanagement will be subject to an independent review by some of the world’s leading accounting firms, including Deloitte, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), Ernst & Young, and KPMG.
“We are committed to ensuring full transparency in government finances. These firms will be given full access to government books, working alongside the Auditor General’s Office to provide independent and credible assessments of all key agencies and departments,” PM Marape said.
He commended Chief Secretary Ivan Pomaleu and his team for ensuring that the Connect PNG audit proceeds with integrity and professionalism.
“We have nothing to hide, and this process will give the public confidence that we are serious about accountability. We want to ensure that every kina spent is accounted for, and that PNG’s infrastructure projects are built to last and serve the nation for generations to come,” he said.
