West Sepik Governor, Tony Wouwou, has frozen all Provincial Service Improvement Programme Funds so that an audit of the books can be made.
Governor Wouwou said the audit is to ensure there is transparency and accountability.
He made the announcement during the Sandaun Provincial Government swearing in ceremony on Monday.
“As of today, I am conditionally freezing all the Provincial Service Improvement Program Funds to allow for the books to be cleared before I can take over.
“This is to allow for good governance, transparency and accountability to prevail during my term as the Governor of the province,” Governor Wouwou said.
He also called on all national leaders to put aside their political differences and work together for the benefit of the people.
He said there were many challenges and called for cooperation to take them head on.
“Meanwhile there are major projects to be rolled out in West Sepik Province in the coming years. We will be working closely with all stakeholders, especially the churches, youths and women’s groups and other interested parties, in delivering services and moving our province forward in terms of development.
“On that note, I would encourage all our open members to share ideas and hold hands together in developing our wards, LLGs, districts and Province as a whole.
“We will be working closely together with our brother province East Sepik in making sure that the major developments that will be coming are beneficial to both provinces.”