The Papua New Guinea Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has expressed its frustration with political leaders and government officials for failing to uphold their responsibilities in combating corruption. Deputy Commissioner of Operations, Daniel Baulch, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that there are apparent signs of corruption permeating various levels of governance. He highlighted incidents involving high-ranking officials, including a former finance minister who allegedly attempted to release nearly PNG Kina 73 million (approximately US$18 million) in outstanding payments to certain businesses, a move that was later halted by the Prime Minister.
Baulch pointed out that despite numerous reports of potential corrupt activities, no official disclosures have been made to ICAC, which raises troubling questions about compliance with the leadership code. He stated that the challenges faced by ICAC are not merely legal, as corruption goes beyond financial misconduct; it significantly impacts citizens’ access to essential services such as healthcare and education, and can incite violence.
The Deputy Commissioner lamented the lack of cooperation from various sectors within the government, which he claims has obstructed ICAC’s ability to address corruption effectively. He stated that meetings often go unattended, and requests for essential resources like search and arrest warrants are frequently delayed or ignored.
Despite these challenges, Baulch reaffirmed ICAC’s commitment to continue its work actively. He appealed to all leaders within the government and public service to collaborate with the commission in the fight against corruption. Baulch added that ICAC possesses the authority to initiate its own investigations and urged anyone with information regarding corrupt practices to come forward and assist in this endeavor.
This situation underscores the significant hurdles faced in the ongoing battle against corruption in Papua New Guinea. However, the resilience of organizations like ICAC and the commitment to working towards ethical governance suggest that there remains a path forward. Collaborative efforts from citizens and government officials could nurture a culture of accountability and integrity, which is crucial to create a brighter future for the nation.
The article highlights that change is possible through unity and collective action against corruption, fostering hope for a more transparent and just society in Papua New Guinea.
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