Southern Highlands Provincial government has clarified allegations suggesting that the K30 million released for PNG games was unlawfully diverted.
The provincial government addressed this matter in a press statement saying the claims are misleading. The prolonged 8th PNG Games now Unity Games is tentatively scheduled for June and Jully.
The statement spell out that the ministerial advice confirmed the release of K30 million for the main stadium and related works in preparation for the Games. Following the release of those funds, Minister for Finance Thomas Opa clarified to SHPG that the allocation was not confined to the main stadium at Oiyarep alone, but extended to critical Unity Games works and activities.
SHP governor William Powi said the claims relating to the Unity Games are untrue and he is looking forward to the PNG Sports Foundation finally confirming dates for the National sporting event.
“The Unity Games date has been pushed back several times, but now we have our target dates in sight and, with the support of the National Government,” Powi said.
“Thirty million Kina has already been expended on the main stadium at Oiyarep and other Games infrastructure, that will serve the Games initially and the Southern Highlands for decades to come.
“The Unity Games program will be delivered at more than one venue, and this also requires additional expenditure for security, administrative infrastructure and operational support by local SHP staff.
“Funding has also been allocated for other approved Unity Games works and activities, including policing and security infrastructure, Muruk stadium works, Muruk Lodge works, School of Nursing facilities and generator installation.
“This is all about the implementation of a broader host-province program necessary for Southern Highlands Province to host the Games. If there are outstanding claims as part of this process, they will be assessed through the normal certification, contract administration and payment once verified. “Wider Unity Games projects are already delivering real and lasting benefits for Southern Highlands communities even before the first whistle is blown at sporting events.
He added that various infrastructures have been upgraded to host the event.
“This includes four significant school upgrades that have been delivered and three more are expected within the next three months,” Powi said.
“These facilities will be used in the short-term accommodation for athletes and officials, and will continue to provide classroom and boarding capacity well beyond the Games.
“Works include boarding dormitories, sanitary bathrooms, additional classrooms and upgraded learning facilities.”
He said the SHP government remains committed to transparency to account for every Toea that has been allocated for the Unity Games.
“The safe and well-organised delivery of the Games for the benefit of the people of Southern Highlands Province. I will not allow repeated disruption by political pests create security instability, delay contractors and implementing partners, and slow the continuation of critical works for our people. Our people of Southern Highlands deserve progress, stability and delivery, not manufactured controversy that keeps the province down.”
