By Jack Lapauve Jr – EMTV News, Port Moresby
The ban on the CMCA and Non-CMCA Trust Accounts of Western Province will not be lifted, says Prime Minister Peter O’Neill. Mr. O’Neill said the audit exercise is near completion, and a report will be tabled in parliament.
The Prime Minister made this statement after North Fly MP, James Donald queried when the funds will be made available and if it is in safe hands. MP James Donald queried how long it will take for the completion of the audit established by Prime Minister Peter O’Neill. He said these funds play a critical role in delivering services in these areas.
Prior to responding, Prime Minister Peter O’Neill made known that gross abuse of these funds by leaders has been the reason the accounts were closed for auditing. PM O’Neill guaranteed the North Fly MP and his people that the accounts will be accessible after the audit.
Madang MP Bryan Kramer joined the conversation with a supplementary question, asking whether the accounts are safe from manipulation. Mr. O’Neill told Parliament that auditing is in its final stages, and the report will be presented to the House. He maintained that the ban will not be lifted.
A total of around K300million is parked in these two accounts.
