By JOEL K ANDREW
Bulolo MP Sam Basil Jr raised concerns in Parliament today regarding delays in the Wafi-Golpu Gold Mine project in Morobe Province.
Mr Basil questioned longstanding land ownership issues, referencing multiple Supreme and National Court decisions dating back to local land court rulings and subsequent appeals.
He said no official boundary walk had been conducted to confirm land ownership among affected tribal groups and clans.
He asked when the Department of Lands and Physical Planning would carry out a boundary walk, as required under the Land Disputes Settlement Act, to verify land ownership within the Special Mining Lease (SML 10) area.
Mr Basil also queried when a comprehensive land investigation report would be completed across the project footprint, including wards one to six, to properly identify individual and clan landowners.
He raised concerns about the delay in project negotiations, noting that global gold and copper prices are rising. He questioned whether negotiations have stalled between the state and developers, and whether Newmont Corporation has deprioritized the Wafi-Golpu project by placing it lower on its development pipeline.
Mr Basil asked whether the project was being deliberately delayed or “warehoused” and whether the National Government would consider cancelling existing licenses if progress remains stagnant.
Hel urged the Government to bring negotiations to a decisive conclusion, highlighting the long-awaited benefits expected by local communities, including jobs, infrastructure, and sustainable revenue for Morobe Province and the country.
In response, Prime Minister Marape assured Parliament the Government was actively addressing the concerns and will provide updates from the relevant authorities.
He added that exploration at Wafi-Golpu had been ongoing since the 1980s and emphasized that the current priority was to finalize a deal that delivers fair returns to the State.
Mr Marape said the Government was targeting a total State benefit of 55 percent, incorporating royalties, equity, and taxes. The State Negotiating Team comprising was leading discussions with investors.
On licensing terms, the Prime Minister said the parties had discussed a possible agreement duration of 40 years, while also maintaining that agreements could be revisited upon expiry. A peer review team had been established to assess the project and provide independent recommendations.
The Prime Minister also revealed that the Wafi-Golpu project was discussed during high-level talks at the White House with US Vice President JD Vance, who questioned delays in finalizing the agreement with project owner, Newmont Corp.
Mr Marape also reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s position to secure the best possible deal for its people, stating that the government will not sign any agreement that does not meet the 55 percent state benefit target.
He said negotiations were ongoing and the State would continue to engage with investors until a satisfactory agreement was reached.
“The Office has been actively working over the past several weeks to ensure all necessary processes are completed.
The funds are available, and what remains are final Administrative and Banking procedures,” Mr. Leia stated.
He further added that, subject to completion of all required processes, Payments are expected to begin later this week.
“We are confident that once the final clearances are completed, Payouts will commence. Our Teams have been working diligently to ensure that all legitimate claims are processed in an orderly and accountable manner,” he said.
The Office emphasizes that due diligence and proper financial procedures are essential to ensure transparency, accountability, and compliance with Public Finance Management standards.
While the delay is regretted, these safeguards are necessary to protect both public funds and the integrity of the process.
The Office of the Prime Minister also extends its appreciation to all participating Teams, Service Providers, and Partners for their patience and understanding during this period.
Efforts remain ongoing to ensure that all Outstanding Payments are settled promptly and in full.
I agree with Jr Basil for the Wafi-Golpu start this year