PNG Health Mininster Malabag condemns uninvited politicians for hijacking Hospital opening

Papua New Guinea Minster for Health, Michael Malabag, has announced that the opening ceremony for the Popondetta General Hospital Operating Theatre has been deferred until after the National Election.

In making the announcement the Minister said the opening of such vital healthcare infrastructure should not be politicized by desperate politicians in what he described as a shameless act when they arrived uninvited and sought to create trouble in the crowd.

“This is a vital healthcare facility for the people of Oro and the nation, and must not be politicised ” the Minister said.

“Desperate and uninvited politicians tried to hijack the hospital opening, stir up the crowd and politicize what should be free of political grandstanding.

“This is a shameful act by politicians who should show respect for the process of delivering healthcare services to our people, and we will not stoop down to their disgraceful level.”

Minister Malabag said the Prime Minister has instructed that all infrastructure and services will be open to the public from today.

“Popondetta General Hospital Operating Theatre is a very important project for the people of Oro, and regardless of when the ceremonial ribbon is cut, the hospital is fully functional as of today for members of the public to use facilities and services.”

The Minister said the National Department of Health is very proud of the new operating theatre that has been funded by the National Government.

“This is one of many new pieces of infrastructure being provided by the National Government for the people of Oro.

“The Government, through direct funding and also working with our partners, is delivering extensive infrastructure around Oro Province.”

The Health Minister said the National Government places a high focus on Healthcare right around the country, particularly in rural areas.

“We have all seen the changes taking place at hospitals in Port Moresby, Mt Hagen, Lae and Madang, but this is not the whole story.

“The National Government is upgrading and building new hospitals in Goroka, Boram, Mt Hagen, Mendi, Kerema, Nipa and many other rural areas.” Post Courier/ PNG Today