By SEPKOLIN WALNE
Opposition leaders have criticised the government for failing to address the worsening water crisis in the National Capital District, despite recent International Monetary Fund (IMF) funding approval of US$163 million (approximately K716 million).
Opposition Leader and Member for Chuave, Hon James Nomane, said State-Owned Enterprises responsible for essential services have become “crisis machines” due to ongoing mismanagement and weak institutional capacity.
He pointed to IMF reports indicating that since 2023, PNG received SDR742 million (approximately K3.2 billion) in financial support, but warned that institutional weaknesses continue to limit the government’s ability to implement effective stabilisation policies.
“PNG is borrowing billions to plug holes that proper maintenance and planning would never have created,” Nomane said.
Member for Ialibu-Pangia, Hon Peter O’Neill, also criticised the government, saying urgent national issues affecting citizens’ daily lives are not being adequately addressed in Parliament.
“We have been in Parliament for almost three weeks, and issues that will affect the lives of every citizen are not getting the attention they deserve,” O’Neill said.
He cited ongoing health and service delivery challenges, saying there has been little to no practical action from government despite repeated budget announcements.
“We have health crises in the country and no real solutions. All we hear about is budget allocations, but that means nothing if services are not delivered. It is pointless having a government that cannot look after its people,” he said.
O’Neill called on the government to clearly outline its plans to address the growing service delivery failures, warning that a lack of planning was contributing to the current crisis.