Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has strongly contested assertions suggesting an excessive concentration of power among politicians, especially concerning fund allocation. His response comes in the wake of an editorial piece published in Papua New Guinea's local newspaper, The National, titled "Too much power vested in politicians." Marape rebutted the notion, emphasizing that the country functions within a democratic framework where power is distributed and regulated by law, dismissing claims of any single politician wielding absolute or unilateral authority. In particular, he highlighted the stringent guidelines established by the Public Finance Management (PFM) Act, dictating the allocation of development funds at various levels—provincial, district, or national. These processes, he stressed, are overseen by public servants, refuting insinuations of direct political control as portrayed in The National's editorial. Expressing disappointment at the newspaper's portrayal of national leadership, Marape criticized what he perceived as a disregard for accuracy before publication, asserting that assuming excessive power in politicians' hands concerning public fund disbursement is fallacious. Emphasizing democratic checks and balances, Marape underscored the importance of laws ensuring accountability and reporting requirements, allowing citizens to scrutinize leaders' actions. He highlighted the mandated reporting of all development funds to the Department of Implementation and Rural Development. The Prime Minister also outlined significant legislative accomplishments under the current leadership, including the passage of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) Bill in 2020, alongside its funding allocation. Additionally, he highlighted amendments made to the Leadership Code, enabling the suspension of leaders for misuse of their official powers—an unprecedented move since the nation’s independence in 1975. Marape urged media outlets to consider comprehensive contexts and facts before making assertions. He reaffirmed the commitment of the current government to transparency, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law, reiterating the importance of accurate reporting and responsible journalism in shaping public discourse. Also read
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