Prime Minister James Marape has announced changes to Cabinet following the resignation of Civil Aviation Minister Walter Schnaubelt. The announcement was made at a press conference prior to his departure for New Zealand this morning. Prime Minister Marape revealed that Mining Minister Wake Goi has been moved to Civil Aviation, Minister Assisting the Prime Minister Rainbo Paita has become the mining minister and Finance Minister Miki Kaeok will also take charge of Transport. “I have moved Minister Wake Goi into the Civil Aviation sector to focus more on rural airstrips, ensuring our rural population is connected, as well as linking up with key priority airports that need attention.” “These priorities include Wewak Airport, Tokua Airport, Kerema Airport, Buka Terminal, and Daru Airport. Completing the Madang and Wapenamanda terminals are also among the key priorities.” The Prime Minister explained that the reassignment of responsibilities is part of his broader plan to place ministers where their talents and experience can be best utilized. “As I return, part of the Cabinet performance review will involve reshuffling, with ministers moved to portfolios where they can be better utilized according to their talents and experience.” Minister Rainbo Paita has been assigned to the Ministry of Mining where his primary task is to complete Community Benefit Agreement (CBA) negotiations and address ongoing mining-related issues. PM Marape clarified that this restructuring aims to ensure fair resource distribution while maintaining investor confidence. “The new regime will not compromise investors' return on investment. Investors will have their place to make a profit. However, there will be a special focus on the country getting more from our resources.” “Certain instructions were given to ensure that the Ramu Nico feasibility study into downstream processing and the Frieda Mine review are completed. The proposed gold refinery concept is on hold until we holistically review it to address all concerns.” He added that Minister Paita would also be responsible for reviewing mining permit processes and advancing discussions on the Wafi- Golpu and Frieda mines. “We are working to ensure that resource management benefits our country fairly.” Moreover, Minister Kaeok has been assigned additional responsibilities in the transport ministry while continuing to manage finance as the Prime Minister works on a possible new Cabinet structure after reviewing performance. Prime Minister Marape reiterated that these changes are part of his government’s broader efforts to ensure efficient service delivery. “We are not here to warm seats. We intend to ensure that we are progressing our national agenda.” “This is all in the effort to ensure we are progressing at a national level.” Furthermore, Prime Minister Marape assured the public that he would continue to review Cabinet performance to ensure alignment with the government’s goals as the nation prepares to mark its 50th Independence Anniversary.