Minister for Works and Highways Responds to social media allegations on Kainantu-Obura Wanenara Road contract

Let me state it very clearly that the contract was awarded in full compliance with National Procurement Act and all relevant Procurement procedures. There was no conflict of interest in awarding the contract to Too Good Construction Ltd as stated by social media bandits. 

The tender of the road project went through a comprehensive and rigorous 14-step process before final approval and awarding by NEC to Too Good Construction Ltd. 

This includes assessments and clearances from the Technical Evaluation and Financial Committee (TEFC), National Procurement Commission (NPC) vetting, state Solicitor clearance, and Ultimately National Executive Council (NEC) approval and awarding of the contract and Governor- General signing. 

Too Good Construction Ltd is a reputable nationally owned company with proven track record and capacity to deliver major infrastructure projects. The contractor met all technical, financial, and compliance requirements during the evaluation process. This is also in line to broader government's vision to support local nationally - owned companies to participate in economic development.  

It is important to empathize that any member of parliament that is legally allowed to own or operate a business, whether it's a Construction company, lodge, fuel station, or otherwise, so long as they declare their interest with Ombudsman Commission (OC) and ensure there is no conflict of interest in decision- making processes. 

NEC has a voting system where cabinet Ministers vote to go against or for the matter being discussed and same voting process was followed in which the Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology ( DHERST) abstain himself from participating in the subject matter. 

In this case, Hon. Kinoka Feo, MP, declared his interest in accordance with requirements and excuse himself from the NEC meeting where the contract decision was made. He had no influence over the the outcome and the cabinet Ministers present at that time of NEC, as an independent and highest government decision- making body, awarded the contract after thoroughly reviewing the recommendations from the NPC and all prior approvals. 

Furthermore, Too Good Construction Ltd was declared by the Ombudsman Commission, meeting the standards of transparency and integrity expected under leadership codes and good governance.

This project is part of the broader Connect PNG program, which aims to connect remote communities, promote inclusive growth, and empower local businesses under the Government’s local content policy. The Aiyura Valley and the Obura-Wonenara District of Eastern Highlands Province produces 70% of the EHP quality Coffee exports in the Market and upgrading this road adds value and economic productivity to the hard working local farmers of Eastern Highlands Province.  

The Ministry urges the public to seek verified information and not be misled by unsubstantiated claims. Believing in social media bandits' like Samson Komati, Alfred Andapanga, Lucas Kiap, and others will not solve your problems. The government remains fully committed to accountability, transparency, and empowerment of national contractors to deliver key infrastructure projects like Connect PNG program that benefits the people of Papua New Guinea.