The Chief Secretary to Government Ivan Pomaleu, OBE, has rubbished a social media post purportedly attributed to him that claims the Government has committed K500 million to host APEC 2033.
This follows a fake Facebook post published by “PNG Happenings Today” titled “PNG Commits K500 Million Investment to Host APEC 2033.”
Related news: https://www.postcourier.com.pg/chief-secretary-pomaleu-rejects-social-media-claim-of-k500-million-apec-commitment/
The post appears misleading and possibly fabricated, with several inconsistencies and no credible sources or official announcements to support the claim.
In a statement, Chief Secretary Pomaleu clarified that announcing future financial commitments on major national policy matters is not the responsibility of his office.
He said such announcements are properly made by the Prime Minister or the relevant Minister, and that long-term commitments of this nature usually involve gradual announcements supported by detailed planning stages.
Mr. Pomaleu further explained that while the National Executive Council has endorsed Papua New Guinea to host APEC again in 2033, it is not credible to determine detailed financial forecasts seven years in advance.
He added that APEC 2033 will take place during the 13th Parliament, and it will be the responsibility of that Parliament and the government of the day to inform the nation of the resources required to host the event.
“Any contribution from my office to this process will be limited to developing a roadmap, domesticating current policy outcomes, and undertaking capacity-building work to prepare for planning and implementation,” he said.
Related news: https://www.thepngsun.com/apec-2033-png-draws-on-2018-lessons-to-deliver-bigger-impact/
The Chief Secretary urged the public to rely on official Government channels for accurate information and to disregard unauthorized social media posts that falsely attribute commitments to Government officials.