Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) Managing Director Mr. Wapu Sonk has stepped down from his position as a director on the PNG NRL Franchise Board, following the publication of serious allegations of corruption by the Sydney Morning Herald concerning his business dealings in his current role at the State-owned Organization.
Prime Minister James Marape confirmed the move after speaking with Mr. Sonk, who is currently overseas.
“I have spoken to Mr. Sonk and requested that he step down from his role as a Director on the PNG NRL Franchise Board effective immediately. He has agreed to do so,” the Prime Minister said in a statement.
PM Marape emphasized that the decision does not imply guilt but was necessary to protect the integrity of the national NRL bid.
“This is not a presumption of guilt. Mr. Sonk is entitled to due process and the opportunity to clear his name. Stepping down allows him the space to do so without casting a shadow over the franchise process or compromising the confidence of our partners.”
The Prime Minister reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s commitment to integrity, transparency, and public trust, and reassured the public, the Australian Government, and the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) of the government’s full cooperation with any relevant investigations.
“The integrity of this national franchise is paramount. We will not allow it to be undermined by external controversy,” Marape said, while also thanking Mr. Sonk for his contributions to the early stages of PNG’s NRL bid.