Minister for Planning

It was alleged on social media that Minister for Planning Richard Maru orchestrated the appointment by appointing a candidate not in the top three list of candidates.

When contacted by this newsroom, Maru said the selections of the appointment of the Secretary for Agriculture were done by the Department of Public Services. He added that he had nothing to do with the appointment.

Minister Kapavore has also lashed out at critics on social media, urging them to refrain from issuing misleading information.

The equipment, by the Government of Japan, through its Japanese International Cooperation System (JICS), will be used to clear road access during natural disasters such as floods, landslides and volcanic eruptions.

At a ceremony at Lae’s Department of Works National Rebuilt Centre, Japanese Ambassador Satoshi Nakajima handed the 15 pieces of construction equipment to Works Minister Michael Nali and Minister for Planning, Richard Maru.

Nali thanked the Japanese Government for its continued generosity.

Minister for Planning Richard Maru clarified this in Parliament on Wednesday.

He was responding to Governor Charlie Benjamin’s questions on how the Government will help the people of Manus, who have benefitted from the asylum centre in terms of employment.

Maru said the Government has committed to help by creating job opportunities.

He also admitted that SMEs in the province will be greatly affected after the closure.

He added that the Manus Provincial Government should take the lead in helping its people rather than depending only on the Government.