Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea, is in turmoil as civil unrest flares up due to contested tax increases and pay deductions impacting civil servants. The city is in a state of upheaval, witnessing widespread acts of looting, arson, and a collapse of crucial services. Reports indicate numerous shops have been ransacked and set on fire, leaving store owners unable to intervene amidst the turmoil. Hospitals, banks, supermarkets, markets, and public transport have all ceased operations, plunging the city into chaos. Tensions escalated as both police and soldiers assembled at Parliament, demanding answers regarding the abrupt pay reductions. Incidents of vehicles being torched outside the Prime Minister's office further fueled the unrest. The government attributes the deductions to glitches in the payroll system, vehemently denying any intentional tax hikes. Sam Koim, the Commission General of the Internal Revenue Commission, promptly addressed concerns, pledging a thorough government investigation into the matter. Prime Minister James Marape explicitly stated that no official tax increments were authorized by the government. He reassured affected workers of ongoing inquiries and committed to rectifying any erroneous deductions. In an effort to alleviate the crisis, the Finance Department intends to issue a comprehensive statement clarifying the situation. Furthermore, plans are underway to reimburse any improperly deducted amounts during the initial pay cycle of 2024. This chaotic situation underscores the critical need for transparent governance in resolving financial issues affecting the workforce and reinstating stability in public services. Next : Comments are closed.
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