Works Minister Defends Connect PNG Program Against Security Concerns
Papua New Guinea Works and Highways Minister Solan Mirisim has responded to concerns raised by Central Governor regarding the Connect PNG Program, emphasizing the government's commitment to both security and infrastructure development. According to Minister Mirisim, the Marape-Rosso Administration takes security matters seriously and ensures that all infrastructure projects, including the Connect PNG Program, incorporate law enforcement measures to safeguard communities.
Minister Mirisim dismissed claims that the Connect PNG Program has contributed to increased crime rates, stating that there is no evidence to support such allegations. Instead, he argued that improved road networks are widely recognized as a means of reducing crime by enhancing economic opportunities, accessibility for law enforcement, and social cohesion. The program, he explained, is a nationwide initiative aimed at lifting people out of poverty, improving access to essential services, and fostering national unity.
Highlighting the economic benefits of the Connect PNG Program, the Minister stated that the expansion of road networks has already generated tens of thousands of jobs, provided rural farmers with better market access, and improved healthcare and education services for many Papua New Guineans. He emphasized that economic growth, rather than isolation, is the key to reducing crime, as global trends indicate that employment opportunities and stable incomes lead to lower crime rates.
The Works and Highways Minister also stressed that the Connect PNG Program is not merely a road development initiative but a key pillar of Papua New Guinea’s long-term national development strategy. He pointed out that the program aligns with major policy frameworks, including PNG Vision 2050, the PNG Development Strategic Plan 2010–2030, and the National Road Network Strategy 2018–2037. Halting the program, he argued, would contradict these policies and undermine decades of planning and progress.
Addressing misconceptions about the program, Minister Mirisim clarified that the Connect PNG initiative is multi-sectoral, integrating various sectors such as water transport, air transport, telecommunications, electrification, sanitation, and housing development. He stated that the program is designed to foster broad-based economic growth across multiple industries, ensuring that rural communities benefit from improved connectivity and essential services.
The Minister also criticized the Central Governor’s call to halt the program, stating that it disregards the needs of other provinces still struggling with inadequate road infrastructure. He questioned the fairness of such demands, noting that while Central Province already has relatively well-developed roads, many other regions, including the Highlands, Gulf, Western, East Sepik, and West Sepik, lack basic connectivity. He asserted that all Papua New Guineans deserve equal access to infrastructure and development opportunities.
Concluding his response, Minister Mirisim denounced the Central Governor’s remarks on regional separation, warning that such divisive rhetoric undermines national unity and peace. He emphasized that the government remains open to discussions on security concerns but will not halt a national development initiative that benefits the entire country. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to addressing security challenges while ensuring that all provinces receive the connectivity and development they need.
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