Prime Minister James Marape

PM to announce cabinet reshuffle

He revealed that a Cabinet reshuffle is imminent this week.

"The issues concerning the economy and the functionality of key state agencies, including Treasury, Finance, and Planning, have been heard loud and clear," said Prime Minister Marape. 

“We will examine the central agencies of Government along with all supporting departments."

Meantime, the Prime Minister Marape will engage with members of the Port Moresby business community this week to address the aftermath of the riots, arson, and looting.

Gov’t allocates K856mil for school fees

A first-quarter allocation of K214m is anticipated to be disbursed this month, just before the commencement of classes.

The announcement comes after an extensive meeting with Education Secretary, Dr. Uke Kombra, on the outcomes of the Department of Education in 2023 and priorities set for 2024.

The funding assistance of K856.686m is an increase of K88.846m from the K767.84m allocated in 2023.

I am not afraid of VONC: Marape

“Some people think that some of us are fearful of 2024. Far from being fearful, we looking at working.

“I see a trend in PNG where some people become seasonal and topical experts on any and every matter.

PM’s 2024 vision of progress and unity

Acknowledging the inherent goodness of the people, he emphasizes the importance of unity in a culturally rich nation.

During the holiday break, PM Marape embarked on infrastructure projects in Jiwaka, Western Highlands, Southern Highlands, and Hela provinces.

He reiterates the challenge of low productivity in the public service and expresses hope that his initiatives will set the stage for increased output in 2024.

Taskforce announced to look into rising prices of goods and services

Prime Minister Marape in his New Year address to the nation acknowledged the inflation levels and the hardships Papua New Guineans are going through. He committed to getting this taskforce to work as soon as possible.

The Prime Minister’s New Year message focused on certain measures the government is taking to ease the burden on daily living and seek ways to fix the country.

He attested that the cost of living has risen given the high inflation rates, further leading to a rise in the price of goods and services. He also acknowledged the dwindling purchasing power of Kina.

Third-level airlines commended

Prime Minister James Marape expressed gratitude to RAA for its valuable services and extended appreciation to all third-level airlines for their continuous dedication to the country over the last 48 years. He assured ongoing government support to enhance and strengthen the vital role played by RAA and third-level airlines in connecting the outlying areas of the country.

Marape set to Address Aust. parliament

“Both side of the Parliament House and the Speaker have agreed that on the 8th of February next year I will be addressing the Australian Parliament.

“This is the first time ever a Pacific Island leader is given that opportunity to address Australian Parliament.

“We have set history and I think it just reflects the mindset that is changing in Canberra now.

“I was happy when the Prime Minister proved himself initially when he addressed the media, he used a line called Papua New Guinea and Australia are called leaders to lead in the Pacific island nations.

PM Marape travels to Australia on Wednesday

The agreement will be finalized following a one-on-one bilateral meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at Parliament House in Canberra on Thursday, December 7, 2023.

This landmark agreement, among others, encompasses Australian Federal Police support for the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, reinforcing mutual security interests in the region.

Prime Minister Marape emphasised the strategic importance of this security arrangement for both Papua New Guinea and Australia.

K344m package to preserve environment

The financial support is dedicated to preserving nature, forests, and mitigating climate impact.

Papua New Guinea, boasting the world's third-largest primary rainforest, holds 7 per cent of the planet's biodiversity.

This innovative 'country package' represents a groundbreaking financing mechanism arising from an international dialogue seeking to fortify North-South solidarity. Its objectives include:

Tkatchenko called out for International Trips

Member for Chuave, James Nomane, asked for clarification today during the 2nd Parliament sitting.

“Recently, we have seen on a few of the International trips with the Prime Minister, that we have had the Minister assisting the Prime Minister representing the Independent State of PNG on these trips engaging with foreign entities like China and the United States of America.