PNG Government Not a Shareholder in MVIL, Says Kua

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has confirmed that Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited Managing Director Wapu Sonk has stepped down from his role on the PNG NRL Franchise Board following serious allegations reported by an Australian media outlet.

Wapu Sonk

The allegations, published by the Sydney Morning Herald, concern Sonk’s business dealings in his capacity as head of the state-owned enterprise. In response, Prime Minister Marape stated that he had spoken with Mr. Sonk, who is currently overseas, and requested that he step down from his position with the NRL franchise board.

“While he is overseas, I have asked Mr. Sonk to step down from the PNG NRL Franchise Board with immediate effect. He has agreed to this request,” Marape stated. Sonk is one of the pioneer directors of the franchise board overseeing PNG’s National Rugby League bid.

Marape said Sonk’s decision to step aside demonstrates the country’s commitment to public accountability and ethical standards, especially when managing high-level national projects like the NRL franchise bid.

The Prime Minister emphasized that Sonk remains innocent until proven guilty and is entitled to due process. “This is not a presumption of guilt. Stepping down gives Mr. Sonk the opportunity to clear his name without jeopardizing public confidence or the franchise process,” he said.

Marape further assured the people of Papua New Guinea, the Australian Government, and the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) of the government’s full cooperation with any inquiries, reaffirming its dedication to transparency. He also thanked Sonk for his contributions during the early stages of the PNG NRL bid.

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PNG Government Not a Shareholder in MVIL, Says Kua