PM Marape Calls for Nationwide Support Behind PNG NRL ‘Mighty Chiefs’ Club

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has outlined a proposal for a supporter-owned ‘Mighty Chiefs’ rugby league team in a statement shared on social media.

The Prime Minister said the initiative is aimed at allowing ordinary Papua New Guineans and businesses to become part-owners of the club.

In the post, Mr Marape said the proposed membership drive would be optional and subject to approval by the club’s board and the National Rugby League, adding that he was willing to serve as patron if endorsed.

 PM Marape Calls for Nationwide Support Behind PNG NRL  ‘Mighty Chiefs’ Club

He explained that a class one membership would be open to individual supporters, suggesting an annual contribution of K100 per person, while class two membership would cater for fans who want to travel with the team and class three would be reserved for corporate members.

Mr Marape also revealed that he had informed a mining and petroleum conference in Sydney that the club was seeking its first 100 foundational corporate members, each contributing K1 million.

“I dream the Chiefs to be owned by the supporters — people and businesses who love Team PNG. It must not be owned by a few but by all in PNG,” he wrote.