Port Moresby – Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has directed the Auditor-General to conduct an urgent audit into the spending by the departments of Finance, National Planning, and Works and Highways. This decision follows recent disbursements of significant funds by these three departments. In a statement released on Thursday, Prime Minister Marape emphasized the need for accountability and transparency in government spending. "I have written to the Auditor-General to preside over an urgent audit into spending by Finance, National Planning, and Works and Highways departments," Marape stated. The directive aims to ensure that public funds are being utilized properly and effectively. The three departments have been responsible for substantial disbursements of public funds in recent times. Prime Minister Marape clarified that the audit is not an accusation of wrongdoing but a measure to reassure the public that government expenditures are conducted responsibly. "This is not to say that they are wrong. However, it is to point out to the people that we ensure that funds are spent properly and work is being done," he explained.
Prime Minister Marape's directive was partly in response to criticisms from Ialibu-Pangia MP Peter O’Neill, who alleged that a contractor had been paid K3 billion for public works. Marape acknowledged these concerns, stating, "We have already given instructions to the Auditor-General to carry out a public audit into the Department of Works and Highways." The audit will assess the legitimacy and efficiency of the expenditures and projects undertaken by this department. In addition to the Department of Works and Highways, the audit will extend to the departments of Finance and National Planning. Prime Minister Marape has called for a thorough review of how these departments have been spending their allocated funds. This comprehensive audit is intended to ascertain the accountability and transparency of these crucial state departments. Prime Minister Marape assured the citizens of Papua New Guinea that the government is committed to maintaining integrity in financial management. "Our citizens must be assured that, as government, we are not here to syphon off funds or perk off budgets," he affirmed. The audit is a proactive step towards building public trust and ensuring that governmental operations adhere to the highest standards of fiscal responsibility. Also read Comments are closed.
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