Maladina defends development forum

Petroleum Minister Jimmy Maladina has hit back on critics about the millions of kinas spent to host the recent Papua LNG Development Forum in Port Moresby, saying the government has nothing to hide.

He says the funding was necessary to progress the final investment decision for the project.

Cabinet had approved K112 million to host the development forum.

Finance Minister Thomas Opa revealed that only K80 million was spent.

This has sparked public debate, with citizens and leaders questioning how the funds were used, following reports some landowners missed out on accommodation and allowances.

Responding to these concerns, Petroleum Minister Jimmy Maladina maintains that Papua LNG is a crucial project expected to generate billions into the national purse.

Prime Minister James Marape also defended the K80 million spent, saying it was less than what the then Somare government had invested to commence the project.

Both leaders were responding to Opposition Leader James Nomane who questioned in Parliament how the K80 million was spent and demanded accountability.