Prime Minister James Marape has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) as a key pillar in the fight against corruption. PM Marape emphasised that ICAC will be fully empowered with the necessary resources, legal backing, and institutional support to fulfill its mandate effectively. “We have prioritised ICAC as the leading agency in the fight against corruption. My government is committed to ensuring that ICAC is fully empowered to investigate, prosecute, and deter corruption at all levels of government." He announced that additional funding has been allocated to ICAC to expand its reach and enhance its investigative capabilities. He also confirmed that key legislative measures are being introduced to further strengthen ICAC’s authority, ensuring that it can operate independently and without political interference. “As we work to improve governance and transparency, we are committed to enforcing strict anticorruption laws and holding those responsible for financial misconduct accountable." "ICAC is central to these efforts, and we urge the public and international partners to support this institution in its mission." Mr. Marape acknowledged the findings of the 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) which ranked Papua New Guinea with a score of 31 out of 100. While this reflects a slight improvement from the previous year’s score of 29, the ranking underscores the continued need for stronger governance, transparency, and accountability in public administration. The Prime Minister reiterated his government’s commitment to fighting corruption, emphasizing that recent reforms and enforcement efforts are beginning to show progress. However, he also recognised that the battle against corruption remains a significant challenge. Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed that his government remains steadfast in implementing anti-corruption measures, including strengthening ICAC, enforcing transparency in government contracts, and prosecuting those involved in financial misconduct. “As a government, we are taking concrete steps to address these concerns." "The fight against corruption is not just about improving our global ranking—it is about securing a better future for Papua New Guineans and ensuring that resources meant for the people are not stolen by a few." He called on all sectors of society, including businesses, civil society organisations, and the public, to work together in promoting transparency and accountability. “We must stand united in tackling corruption and ensuring that Papua New Guinea moves forward as a nation of integrity."