Clarification on Prime Minister’s Departure from Wewak

The office of the Prime Minister wishes to clarify that media reports claiming that Prime Minister James Marape was “stranded in Wewak for three hours” are inaccurate.

Following PM Marape's official visit to East Sepik province, where he travelled to Maprik, Angoram, and Wewak to launch various projects, preparations were made for departure aboard the state aircraft, the Falcon Jet.

During take-off preparations, the aircraft attempted departure twice but did not proceed as required.

As part of standard aviation safety procedures, the pilots and onboard engineer carried out routine precautionary checks to ensure the aircraft was safe for flight.

After all required Inspections and safety protocols were completed, the aircraft was cleared for departure and the Prime Minister and his delegation departed Wewak safely.

At no time was the Prime Minister stranded. The brief delay was simply the result of normal safety checks being conducted in accordance with aviation standards.

The office of the Prime Minister commends the pilots and engineers for prioritizing safety and maintaining the highest professional standards.