AS Papua New Guinea mourns the passing of some of its most distinguished leaders, Prime Minister James Marape has called on all levels of government to ensure that public funds are translated into tangible development for the people.
Speaking from Gasmata, West New Britain, the Prime Minister paid tribute to the late Sir Julius Chan, Sir John Luke Crittin of Milne Bay, Sir Charles Lepani, and Sir Paul Songo, acknowledging their contributions to the nation’s founding and development. He noted that as their generation departs, the responsibility of leading and serving the country now rests with today’s leaders.
Prime Minister Marape emphasised that public resources allocated to District Development
Authorities (DDAs), Provincial Governments, and Ministries must be effectively utilized.
“We must ensure that every kina we allocate is used for development. We cannot afford delays or mismanagement. I do not expect miracles, but I do expect results. Wherever funding has been provided, work must be taking place—in the districts, in the provinces, and in our ministries. We all have a duty to serve.”
He reinforced that it is the responsibility of all elected leaders to deliver for their communities and that both Government and Opposition representatives must uphold their duty to the nation.
The Prime Minister reminded Governors and District MPs that they hold a full five-year mandate to implement meaningful change, whereas the Office of the Prime Minister is subject to the political realities of the 18-month grace period.
“Governments may change, but development must not stall. Districts and provinces must continue delivering long-term improvements that align with our National Government’s Medium-Term Development Plan. There can be no excuses for stagnation,” Prime Minister Marape said.
He stressed that stronger oversight and accountability are essential, and that public servants, government agencies, and leaders must ensure that projects are completed efficiently and transparently.
Prime Minister Marape highlighted that under his leadership, the Government ensured all districts— whether aligned with the Government or the Opposition—received equal and fair funding:
- K10 million in District and Provincial Services Improvement Programme (DSIP & PSIP) funds
- An additional K5 million in Special Infrastructure Grants
“That is K15 million per district as the baseline allocation. We will also look at matching district and provincial priorities with a Kina-for-Kina policy. Additionally, my government will tailor an extra fund to cover the cost-of-service delivery for remote rural districts.
“We will set up a National Monitoring Authority to ensure all development funds are expended in line with government priorities and deliver maximum results.”
Prime Minister Marape acknowledged that significant work remains but insisted that every leader, from ministers to governors and district officials, must prioritise development.
“One day, we too will be carried on the shoulders of our youth and laid to rest in the land of our birth. What legacy will we leave behind?”
“The people are watching. The nation is waiting. Let us honour those who built this country by delivering meaningful change for the future of Papua New Guinea. Time is short—we must act now.”
