Reiterating its commitment to fighting corruption in Papua New Guinea, the Community Coalition against Corruption (CCAC) recently called its first steering committee meeting for 2024. Important players from a range of industries attended the Tuesday's meeting, which was held at the Holiday Inn Port Moresby. The steering committee stressed the urgent need for greater accountability in the distribution of public funds, particularly through the District Services Improvement Program (DSIP) and public procurement. The committee was co-chaired by Transparency International Papua New Guinea (TIPNG) and the Media Council of PNG (MCPNG). "Corruption undermines the very fabric of our society, affecting the lives of ordinary citizens and impeding the country's development," said Mr. Peter Aitsi, TIPNG Chair and CCAC Co-Chair. "Our communities suffer when public funds meant for essential services are siphoned off through corrupt practices." Similar remarks were made by Mr. Neville Choi, President of the Media Council and Co-Chair of the CCAC, who emphasized the significance of accountability and openness in governance. "The CCAC stands as a bulwark against the erosion of citizens' rights and freedoms," he stated. "We are committed to ensuring that the voices of the people are heard and that government policies are implemented with the welfare of the nation in mind." Priority areas for action were determined during the conference, demonstrating the CCAC's continuous attempts to combat corruption and advance good governance. These include safeguarding media liberties, improving transparency in the public sector, and ensuring safe, free, and fair elections.