OPPOSITION DEMANDS IMMEDIATE RELEASE OF FUNDS TO PROVINCES AND DISTRICTS

BY NIGEL MADO

THE Opposition has welcomed the Supplementary Budget but is demanding the immediate release of appropriated funds to provinces and districts.

 The Opposition says the Government must now move beyond passing the budget and ensure the funds are released to communities facing multiple national pressures.

Opposition Leader, James Nomane is calling for the immediate release of K5 million to districts and K10 million to provinces, without discrimination or delay.

Nomane says the funds must reach the people they are intended to assist, particularly as Papua New Guinea faces the effects of El Niño, rising fuel costs and preparations for the 2027 National General Election.

He says an appropriation that remains in Waigani does not provide practical relief to communities or support critical national priorities.

Nomane further says, the Supplementary Budget was necessary because of three converging crises, including drought, frost and failing food gardens linked to El Niño, external fuel-price pressures following the war in Iran, and delays in preparations for the 2027 election.

The Opposition has also warned that it will monitor the implementation of the budget by tracking every warrant, release and district.