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 Prime Minister James Marape has defended his government’s development efforts following sharp criticism from Deputy Opposition Leader James Nomane, who accused the administration of focusing on Papua New Guinea’s National Rugby League (NRL) bid instead of addressing rising crime rates.

Nomane had condemned the government for failing to curb violent crimes, particularly recent attacks on women and girls in Port Moresby. He argued that the Marape administration had neglected pressing national issues and questioned the logic behind linking rugby league to economic and social development. Additionally, he called for the removal of Police Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr., citing the lack of progress in improving public safety.

In response, Marape dismissed Nomane’s claims, asserting that his government is actively delivering progress across multiple sectors, including education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic growth. He emphasized that the NRL bid is only one of many initiatives aimed at providing new opportunities for young Papua New Guineans. According to the Prime Minister, national development requires a multi-faceted approach, not just political commentary.

Marape pointed to key achievements under his leadership, including a major expansion in education access through Flexible Open and Distance Education (FODE) and increased placements in tertiary institutions. He also highlighted investments in healthcare, such as the completion of the Enga Hospital, ongoing work on Wewak and Goroka hospitals, and the establishment of a state-of-the-art cancer treatment center.

On economic progress, the Prime Minister noted that the country’s economy had expanded from K79 billion in 2018 to K125 billion in 2024, with record employment growth and stronger returns from major resource projects. He also cited significant improvements in infrastructure, security sector expansion, tax relief measures, and justice reforms.

Turning his attention to Nomane, Marape questioned what the Chuave MP had achieved with the K50 million allocated to his district. He stressed that all districts, including Chuave, had received a record K15 million in 2024 to drive local development. He urged Nomane to demonstrate tangible results rather than engaging in political criticism, emphasizing that leadership is about delivering services, not just making statements.

Marape reaffirmed his commitment to addressing national challenges, stating that his government remains focused on long-term development and tangible solutions rather than political debates.

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