Reginal Renagi | The National 

PRIME Minister James Marape recently stressed the importance of accountability and the proper use of public funds.

The fair distribution of District Services Improvement Programme (DSIP) and Provincial Services Improvement Programme (PSIP) funding to both Government and Opposition MPs reflects a positive democratic principle: national development should not depend on political loyalty.

Every district and province deserves equal opportunity for progress.

However, equitable funding alone is insufficient.

Many Papua New Guineans continue to face deteriorating roads, limited health services, overcrowded classrooms, and restricted economic opportunities, despite years of DSIP and PSIP allocations.

Citizens now expect more than speeches or ceremonial launches – they demand transparency, value for money, and tangible results.

All MPs should publicly disclose annual expenditure reports, project contracts, timelines, and audit outcomes.

Stronger oversight by provincial administrations, local communities, civil society, and churches is essential. 

The future of Papua New Guinea depends on responsibly managing public funds, making accountability and service delivery the true measure of political leadership.