Papua New Guinea's Shadow Minister for Petroleum and Energy, Hon. Kerenga Kua, has raised concerns over Prime Minister Marape's alleged breaches of protocol and propensity for micromanagement. Kua's discontent arises from Marape's recent trip to Singapore with Minister Jimmy Maladina to discuss petroleum and energy matters, including engagements with executives from companies like Puma Energy. Kua emphasized the irregularity of a sovereign nation's leader traveling abroad to meet corporate executives, arguing that such meetings should be initiated within Papua New Guinea's borders.
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| Shadow Minister Criticizes PNG PM Marape's Handling of International Engagements |
Kua contended that the Prime Minister's role is to uphold the sovereignty of the country, not to engage in extensive international travel at the behest of private entities. He suggested that if the Prime Minister were invited by the Singaporean Prime Minister and then included meetings with company executives, it would be more acceptable. Similarly, Kua questioned Marape's meetings in Brisbane before Singapore, indicating that the Prime Minister's international engagements should align with diplomatic protocols.
Furthermore, Kua expressed concern over Marape's alleged micromanagement in project negotiations, suggesting that his intervention has caused confusion and disruption. He argued for a structured bureaucratic approach, where negotiations are led by high-level departmental officers and agency heads. Kua stressed that the Prime Minister should only intervene when necessary, allowing ministers and department officials to lead talks, especially in sectors like petroleum and energy.
In addressing the issue, Kua proposed that discussions in Singapore should involve high-level departmental officers, the Secretary of Department of Petroleum, and the Managing Director of the National Energy Authority. He emphasized that executives from companies should be invited to Papua New Guinea to continue discussions, with the Prime Minister's involvement required only for Cabinet endorsement of agreements.
Ultimately, Kua called for the Prime Minister to adhere to established negotiation protocols, refrain from unnecessary international engagements with corporate executives, and respect the dignity of his office. Despite expressing regret over the need to educate the Prime Minister on negotiation tactics and protocol, Kua emphasized the importance of upholding proper procedures and the integrity of Papua New Guinea's governance system.
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