Port Moresby, January 3, 2024 – In response to an editorial published today in The National newspaper titled, ‘Too much power vested in politicians,’ Prime Minister Hon. James Marape emphatically refuted the notion that politicians wield an undue amount of power, particularly in the allocation of funds.
Prime Minister Marape stressed the importance of placing The National’s editorial into its proper context. He asserted, “The newspapers in this country need to get their facts right before rushing into print. It is a fallacy to think that too much power is in the hands of politicians, especially when it comes to the disbursement of public funds.”
The Prime Minister reminded the public that the country operates under a democratic framework where power is shared and regulated by law. He clarified that no single politician possesses ultimate or unilateral power. For instance, the disbursement of development funds, whether at the provincial, district, or national level, adheres to the stipulations of the Public Finance Management (PFM) Act and follows procurement laws and procedures.
Prime Minister Marape emphasised, “These processes are under the care and control of public servants, with no politician having direct control, as implied by The National.”
Expressing his disappointment, the Prime Minister characterised The National’s questioning of the leadership qualities of current politicians as bordering on contempt. He stated, “For The National newspaper to devalue our national leadership in today’s editorial is contemptuous on all elected leaders.”
Regardless of the education levels of leaders or their constituents, the Prime Minister highlighted that the democratic laws in place ensure a division of power with checks and balances, including reporting requirements. Citizens have the right to scrutinise the work of their leaders, as all funds allocated for development are mandated by law to be reported to the Department of Implementation and Rural Development.
Prime Minister Marape pointed out the significant legislative achievements of the current leadership, including the passage of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) Bill in 2020, with funding allocated for ICAC. Additionally, he underscored the passage of an amendment to the Leadership Code last year, allowing the suspension of leaders for five years if they misuse their official powers—an unprecedented move since the nation’s independence in 1975.
Prime Minister Marape urged the media to consider the broader context and facts before making assertions, reiterating the commitment of the current government to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.
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