The Prime Minister says auditors will track funds

Chuave MP James Nomane has accused the Government of selectively releasing district funds, claiming the national budget has been “weaponised” to marginalise certain electorates.

Speaking in Parliament, Mr Nomane questioned Prime Minister James Marape on when Chuave would receive its full District Support Improvement Program [DSIP] funding of K10 million, as well as other functional grants owed to Simbu Province.

“I just want to know from the Prime Minister, when is Chuave going to receive its full DSIP? We’ve been completely marginalised because this Government has weaponised the budget,” Mr Nomane said.

In response, Prime Minister Marape emphasized that all budget allocations are released but stressed the need for stronger accountability in the use of public funds.

“Right now, as I speak, we are engaging Deloitte and other audit firms to get out there and follow the money trail,” Mr Marape said. “So that the country knows, year in, year out, Treasury passes budget funds dispersed, but we need to get into a system where we are following the money trail, so work is happening and people across our country see what is happening.”

The Prime Minister said the engagement of independent auditors will ensure that public funds reach their intended projects and communities, providing transparency and confidence in government spending.