PNG Commerce Minister Denies Misuse Claims, Calls Social Media Posts Defamatory

Commerce and Industry Minister Win Bakri Daki

Papua New Guinea's Commerce and Industry Minister Win Bakri Daki has strongly rejected allegations circulating on social media accusing him of misappropriating public funds, describing the posts as a deliberate attempt to damage his public standing ahead of the next national election.

The Minister said the accusations were part of a coordinated campaign aimed at tarnishing his reputation, insisting the claims linking him, members of his family and close associates to the misuse of government funds were baseless and unsupported by evidence.

Mr Daki issued the response after online reports alleged abuse of office and misappropriation involving funds managed by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, particularly those connected to SME development programs.

He dismissed the allegations as anonymous attacks designed to attract public attention rather than present verified facts, maintaining that the information being shared across social media platforms lacked credibility.

The controversy has also drawn criticism from the Opposition, with Chuave MP and Opposition Leader James Nomane publicly questioning the management of SME funds administered through the ministry.

Nomane alleged that money intended to benefit districts had instead remained within the department and was being diverted from its intended purpose.

“Instead of the K200 million to reach the people through districts, it goes straight to family members, minister and secretaries and the money is lost within the department, this is very serious and very clear corruption action,” Nomane said.

Mr Daki has continued to deny any involvement in wrongdoing, saying the accusations were malicious and unverified, and were intended to destroy his reputation.