Prime Minister, James Marape has welcomed public scrutiny surrounding the reported K20 million defense transaction, while cautioning against premature and misleading conclusions drawn without full facts.
Responding to concerns raised by Opposition Leader Hon. James Nomane, the Prime Minister acknowledged that issues of this nature-whether raised by the Opposition, public servants, or citizens-play an important role in strengthening accountability across government.
Related news: https://news.pngfacts.com/2026/05/png-pm-orders-probe-into-k20m-defence.html
“In a democracy, we must allow space for concerns to be raised-not just by the Opposition, but by any citizen or public official who believes something may not be right.
These matters must then be tested through proper processes and institutions,” the Prime Minister said in a statement.
However, Prime Minister Marape stressed that such concerns must be handled responsibly and verified through established legal and institutional mechanisms, rather than being prematurely labelled as criminal conduct.
“I do not tolerate graft and corruption. I do not tolerate illegal practices. We expect everyone to do the right thing,” he stated.
The Prime Minister emphasized that initial information available to him does not indicate any criminal intent behind the transaction but reaffirmed the importance of due diligence.
“It is my considered view that no ill intention is meant in this transaction. However, every government fund must have a clear and lawful purpose, and we will ensure that all processes are properly accounted for,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape clarified that he became aware of the matter through public circulation and has since acted swiftly to initiate a formal review.
“This is the first time I have come to see this matter.
I have already directed the Chief Secretary to conduct a full review and provide comprehensive background information,” he said.
He further underscored that Papua New Guinea has well-established independent institutions mandated to deal with any suspected financial misconduct.
“Any suspicious or questionable transaction must be subjected to proper scrutiny through our institutions, including the Independent Commission Against Corruption, the Ombudsman Commission, and other relevant authorities.”
“These bodies exist to ensure accountability, and we will allow them to do their work,” the Prime Minister stated.
Prime Minister Marape warned against politicizing sensitive matters before facts are fully established.
“It is irresponsible to make sweeping allegations without full knowledge of the facts. Leadership demands restraint, accuracy, and respect for due process,” he added.
He assured the country that any wrongdoing—if established—will be dealt with firmly and in accordance with the law.
“If there are any acts of impropriety, we will deal with them accordingly. No one is above the law, and due process will take its course,” he said.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the Government’s continued commitment to strengthening Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) systems and maintaining international standards of financial governance.
“Our Government remains fully committed to ensuring financial integrity across all institutions. We will not allow misinformation to derail the important work underway to strengthen our systems and restore full international confidence,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape confirmed that a detailed public update will be provided once the review is completed.
“I will inform the nation as soon as I receive a full report on this matter. Transparency and accountability remain the cornerstone of my Government,” he said.
He concluded by urging all leaders and citizens to uphold responsible discourse in matters of national importance.
Related news: https://www.thepngsun.com/pm-marape-orders-full-investigation-into-pngdf-audit-findings-commits-to-stronger-defense-force/
“Let us allow facts—not speculation—to guide our national conversation and let our institutions do the work they are mandated to do,” the Prime Minister said.