Distribute fairly, govt told

 THE opposition has called for a fair and equitable distribution of infrastructure development throughout the country.

And spokesman Tobias Kulang (Kundiawa-Gembogl MP) has urged the government of Prime Minister Peter O’Neill to focus on prudent economic management.

Responding to O’Neill’s statement on major road projects for Port Moresby, Kulang said: “It is good to see the prime minister just waking up from his long sleep and is enthusiastic about pushing the agenda.

“My point is about prudent economic management and equitable distribution of wealth across the nation.  Only less than 5% of our population live in Port Moresby so we must be enthusiastic about spending on infrastructure elsewhere in the country like we do for Port Moresby.  

“Vast potential in untapped labor and resources are locked up in our 85% rural based economy and we must be serious about infrastructure development in our rural communities also and not just overspending in Port Moresby for the gratification of the few already rich friends.”

Kulang said O’Neill had held ministerial positions in successive governments but did nothing about the poor state of roads and other infrastructure in the country.  

“If PNG had spent its monies properly over these years when we had sustained high economic growth, we wouldn’t have to play catch up like we are trying to do now,” he said.

“It is common knowledge that the Port Moresby road contracts are considered easy contracts and serve a cluster of people quite well.

“Leaders must always be honest and sincere in their decisions and conduct as more than 85% of our people are rural based and do have the means to scrutinise the performance of their leaders and hold them accountable.”