NO NEED FOR PANIC- ADEQUATE FUEL SUPPLY ASSURED; GOVERNOR PARKOP

INLIGHT of fuel shortage experienced by vehicle owners in the National Capital District since yesterday afternoon and today, the NCD Governor Powes Parkop has reassured residents and corporate stakeholders that there is no shortage of fuel in Port Moresby or across Papua New Guinea.

Governor Parkop emphasized that, in close consultation with Prime Minister Hon. James Marape, he has received firm assurances that fuel supplies remain adequate and that temporary disruptions are being swiftly addressed.

“There is no shortage of fuel. There might be a price issue, but it will be fixed today. These are the assurances I have been given by the Prime Minister,” Governor Parkop stated.
He explained that rumors of shortages may have stemmed from the Government’s ongoing efforts to maintain fuel prices at April levels.

Prime Minister Marape confirmed to Governor Parkop this morning that K300 million of the K1 billion subsidy has already been released to stabilize prices.

“Getting the subsidy to suppliers to maintain April prices may have affected some fuel supplies, leading to the rumor. I am assured this will be resolved today and all supplies will continue at April price levels,” Governor Parkop said.

Governor Parkop further noted that key ministers — Hon. Joseph Lelang (Minister for Rural and Economic Development), Hon. Ian Ling-Stuckey (Minister for Treasury), and Hon. Justin Tkatchenko (Minister for Foreign Affairs) — are working tirelessly with Treasury, Finance, the Central Bank, Commercial Banks, the Independent Consumer & Competition Commission (ICCC), fuel importers, and retailers to ensure all impediments are cleared promptly.

“I appeal to all residents of Port Moresby not to panic. Please bear with us today as we restore services at April price levels,” Governor Parkop urged.