The Porgera Development Authority (PDA) has been challenged to provide audited accounts of the last 20 years.
The challenge was put to them by Enga Governor, Sir Peter Ipatas, in a media conference today.
Ipatas said the threat to shut down operations was irresponsible especially when there was a lot to be desired in terms of accountability.
“We are now calling on the appropriate authorities and PDA to come out and produce their financial reports since inception.”
“Because from records that we have, we see that more than K130 million has been given through their accounts in terms of Special Support Grants and National Government Grants,” said Ipatas.
The Governor’s comments follow reports in the media that the authority would shut down operations within three months if it is not paid royalties owed to it.
Ipatas said the media reports were misleading, as there was no accountability of funds as well as lack of physical proof to show any form of development undertaken by the authority.
“So when you see an organisation, especially landowners continuously talks about more money, more money, and are not being accountable and of course you physically don’t see any development on the ground, or do not see any form of services then you would wonder why they continue to call for more money when there is speculation of mismanagement and misappropriation,” Ipatas said.
Ipatas further called for an investigation into the issue by relevant authorities.