MINISTER for Petroleum, Hon. Jimmy Maladina, has confirmed that he will proceed with filing a Supreme Court reference to seek legal direction on the implementation of the Ministerial Determination on PDL 2 Kutubu benefit-sharing.
In a statement today, the Minister said he is seeking court’s direction to find out whether the Kutubu beneficiaries are preserved under the Oil & Gas Act.
“To ensure clarity and certainty, I am seeking the Supreme Court’s guidance on this matter,” Maladina said.
“Both patties have been invited to join the proceedings should they wish to do so,” he added.
Notwithstanding this legal step, Minister Maladina remains hopeful that a resolution can be reached through dialogue, without requiring the Court’s intervention.
“Our meetings this week with both parties have been very positive and encouraging,” the Minister said.
“l sincerely appreciate the willingness of all sides to engage in open discussions, and I commend their respective leadership for their constructive approach.”
Minister Maladina further emphasized that, while discussions continue, landowners have now agreed to withdraw their ultimatum to the State as all parties work towards a lasting resolution within the confines of law and equity.
“The aggrieved landowners have shown good faith by withdrawing their ultimatum, and we will continue to work together to reach a fair and legally sound outcome,” he stated.
Minister Maladina also reaffirmed that project security is guaranteed and that all parties are fully committed to maintaining stability for the benefit of the country and investors.
“The collaboration we are demonstrating today should send a strong message to the nation that project security is non-negotiable,” he said.
“While differences exist, there is a shared understanding that safeguarding our resources and ensuring long-term benefits for all stakeholders must remain our top priority.”
He further highlighted that, despite some disagreements, there are promising areas of agreement that can be built upon in the coming days and weeks to find a sustainable resolution.
The Minister reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with all parties to bring certainty to the benefit-sharing arrangements for PDL 2, stating that a mutually agreed solution remains the best possible outcome.
“I welcome the amicable agreement between both disputing parties to proceed with the recognition of their ILGs, allowing the democratic process to determine the rightful representation to the people of the PDL 2 project,” Minister Maladina said.
