Transparency International PNG has commended the Minister for National Planning, Richard Maru, for taking steps to restore the integrity of the National Statistics Office (NSO) and the National Identity (NID) project.
This follows the suspension of former head of NSO, Roko Koloma, and the establishment of an investigation team into the NID project.
“In welcoming these positive steps taken by the Minister, TIPNG strongly feels that there is still much to be concerned about in terms of public interest and accountability of public funds apparently splurged on this project,” stated the anti-rot agency.
“The NID project was launched in November 2014 and was envisioned to become a universal ID card for all Papua New Guinean citizens. Over K200m was allocated for this NID project to be rolled out nationwide.
“Instead, there have been allegations of mismanagement levelled against agencies responsible for NID, and numerous complaints by citizens throughout PNG on the inefficient and sloppy service by the Office of Civil Registry.
“TIPNG calls on the appointed NID investigative team to carry out their duties thoroughly and with urgency and to furnish a full report to the public.”