PNG's Money laundered through Marape Government's Connect PNG initiative : O'Neill
In a bold Facebook livestream revelation, ex-Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Peter O'Neill has leveled serious allegations against the current government, led by Prime Minister James Marape, regarding the Connect PNG initiative. O'Neill has gone on record, branding Connect PNG as a "money milking scam" and a "money laundering scheme," accusing the government of gross financial mismanagement. He alleges that funds allocated for the initiative are vanishing through questionable channels, leaving the nation in a precarious financial situation. O'Neill urgently called for immediate action to halt Connect PNG, expressing deep-seated concerns about unaccounted millions, and potentially tens of millions, of Kina associated with the project.
Expanding his critique beyond Connect PNG, O'Neill pointed fingers at the politicization of the public service sector, claiming that public servants are now more aligned with Members of Parliament, dubbing them "political servants" instead of public servants. Additionally, he criticized the appointment of individuals lacking qualifications to key public service positions.
O'Neill also voiced economic concerns, accusing the Marape-led government of failing to instill confidence among local and foreign investors, leading to a dearth of investments. He underscored the impact on the lives of Papua New Guineans, citing rising inflation, unemployment, and the struggles of families to afford basic necessities.
Further, O'Neill took issue with Marape's invitation to foreigners without proper business backgrounds, potentially sidelining established local companies and adversely affecting the nation's economic landscape.
In a scathing rebuke, O'Neill criticized the government's decision to allow the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to devalue the PNG currency. He warned of severe and long-term consequences, especially in the absence of a robust agriculture-based economy.
Drawing attention to his own financial management during his tenure, O'Neill highlighted his role in raising the national debt to 30 billion Kina from 8 to 10 billion Kina, emphasizing his contribution to building essential infrastructure using those funds.
Expressing reservations about the current trajectory under Marape's leadership, O'Neill noted a surge in the national debt to 63 billion Kina within the last four years, raising questions about transparency and efficacy in financial management. He challenged Marape to identify specific projects or initiatives associated with the substantial loans borrowed by the government.
Furthermore, O'Neill condemned the country's Technology Minister's attempt to shut down social media, claiming it impedes freedom of speech and reflects the government's inability to handle contemporary challenges. The former Prime Minister urged a more strategic and thoughtful approach to governance, taking into account the interconnectedness of the world through technology. O'Neill's accusations and criticisms pose critical questions about the state of governance and financial management in Papua New Guinea.
Watch Full Speech Video by Hon. Peter O'Neill
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