Bando calls for probe into public-funded overseas travel

Coffee Minister William Bando has called on government departments, statutory authorities and state agencies to publicly account for overseas trips funded by taxpayers, warning that public money must be spent on service delivery rather than privileges.

In a statement, Bando expressed concern over what he described as a growing trend of government officials travelling to Australia for meetings and workshops that appear to coincide with major rugby league matches in Brisbane.

He said the trips raised serious questions about the use of public funds at a time when Papua New Guinea was facing pressing national challenges, including the continuing impacts of El Niño on food security, water supply and essential services.

"We cannot ignore the reality facing Papua New Guinea. Our priority must be ensuring our communities have access to essential services, food security, water, health care and government support," Bando said.

The minister said it was unacceptable for government agencies to use public resources and valuable working time on overseas travel while many Papua New Guineans continued to struggle with drought, food shortages and limited access to healthcare.

He urged public servants to remain focused on delivering services in districts, provinces and communities, saying taxpayers expected government institutions to put people before privilege.

Bando called on every government department, statutory authority and state agency that had travelled overseas using public funds to release a full account of their trips.

He said the public should be informed of the names of officials who travelled, the purpose of the trip, dates and locations, total costs, allowances paid and the measurable outcomes achieved for the country.

"The people have every right to ask why ten or more officials would need to travel overseas to attend meetings or activities that could have been undertaken through more cost-effective means," he said.

Bando stressed that every kina spent by government belongs to the people and should be managed responsibly.

He warned that if officials were using overseas travel as an opportunity for personal enjoyment or to attend sporting events under the guise of official business, it would represent a serious breach of public trust.

The minister called on all government agencies to demonstrate greater accountability, transparency and fiscal discipline, saying leaders and public servants must put service before privilege and ensure public resources are directed towards improving the lives of Papua New Guineans.

"The people of Papua New Guinea deserve a government that leads by example," Bando said.