MEDIA STATEMENT
Prime Minister James Marape has reaffirmed his governmentβs unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance by announcing the launch of a special audit into the Connect PNG Infrastructure Programme.
This high-level audit, led by Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu in partnership with Norths Projects Ltd, an internationally recognized engineering firm, will comprehensively assess the entire Connect PNG Programme following allegations of corruption and mismanagement.
The audit aims to provide an independent and professional review of the programmeβs financial integrity and performance, ensuring that Connect PNG effectively fulfills its mandate of linking the country through modern road networks.
βOur government has always upheld high standards of transparency. We do not tolerate impropriety or corruption in our systems. In light of widespread concerns, including last yearβs allegations branding Connect PNG as a corrupt scheme, we are committed to conducting a full audit of the programme,β stated Prime Minister Marape.
To this end, the Prime Minister emphasized the engagement of Deloitte, one of the worldβs leading accounting firms, alongside a reputable engineering firm, to conduct a thorough assessment of Connect PNG.
βTheir review will not only verify the integrity of the programme but also ensure that every kina is spent appropriately and that roads are constructed to proper engineering standards,β he added.
The special audit commenced in February 2025 and will involve physical inspections of Phase One projects across eight provinces, marking the first comprehensive review of the programme since its inception.
To enhance the audit process, the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) will provide security and logistical support, ensuring a fair and effective assessment.
The audit will determine whether any financial irregularities have occurred. If so, those responsible will face legal consequences; meanwhile, individuals wrongly accused will have the opportunity to clear their names.
βIf there has been any mismanagement, corruption, or unethical conduct, those responsible will be prosecuted. Conversely, if these allegations are found to be baseless, those falsely accused will be able to seek legal redress for any reputational damage,β Prime Minister Marape affirmed.
Emphasizing the importance of the Connect PNG programme, the Prime Minister noted its critical role in providing essential road networks to all parts of the countryβa mission that must not be undermined by corruption or inefficiency.
βFor too long, PNG has remained disconnected, with large areas still inaccessible by road, even after nearly 50 years of independence. Connect PNG seeks to change this reality and ensure that our growing population and economy have the necessary infrastructure for long-term sustainability,β he said.
Additionally, Prime Minister Marape revealed that his government is developing a new policy to expand independent auditing across all government agencies. Moving forward, any department or agency facing allegations of mismanagement will undergo an independent review by leading global accounting firms, including Deloitte, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), Ernst & Young, and KPMG.
βWe are committed to ensuring full transparency in government finances. These firms will be granted full access to government records, working alongside the Auditor Generalβs Office to provide independent and credible assessments of all key agencies and departments,β PM Marape stated.
He commended Chief Secretary Ivan Pomaleu and his team for their efforts in ensuring that the Connect PNG audit proceeds with integrity and professionalism.
βWe have nothing to hide, and this process will instill public confidence that we are serious about accountability. We want to ensure that every kina spent is accounted for and that PNGβs infrastructure projects are built to last, serving the nation for generations to come,β he concluded.
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