Massive Fire Destroys Menduli Building in PNG Highlands Town

 Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has warned that the customary last-minute spending by government departments in December must stop, calling for stronger financial discipline as the 2025 budget year closes.

PM Marape halts PNG government’s year‑end spending spree

Addressing senior officials, Mr Marape said that public money must only be spent on essential services and approved allocations, and that all commitments should be finalized in a structured manner.

He urged agencies to avoid hurried spending and to retire their obligations properly before the end of the year. “The December rush must stop,” he said, stressing that going over approved limits is unacceptable.

The Prime Minister added that public funds should not be used for Christmas parties or other non-critical activities, reminding agencies that the country has already held major national celebrations this year.

He emphasized that responsible financial management is necessary to protect the next year’s budget, which will focus on core services and improving outcomes for citizens.

Government departments have been instructed to adopt this disciplined approach as they close out their financial obligations, ensuring funds are directed toward priority areas and not wasted on unnecessary spending.

 

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Massive Fire Destroys Menduli Building in PNG Highlands Town