Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has affirmed his Government’s long-standing commitment to transparency, Parliamentary accountability, and respect for all Members of Parliament as the 2026 National Budget—totaling K30.9 billion—was formally tabled today by Treasurer Hon. Ian Ling-Stuckey.

Speaking after the Budget Session, Prime Minister Marape emphasized that the Government will once again uphold its tradition, established since taking office in 2019, of allowing the Opposition ample time to scrutinize, debate, and respond to the Budget before it is passed.

“In the last six Budgets we have brought to Parliament, we have shown clearly that this Government does not run away from scrutiny,” Prime Minister Marape stated. “Unlike in the past where Governments rushed Budgets through the same day, we have consistently ensured every Member— Government or Opposition—has the time and space to thoroughly assess the Budget and make informed contributions. All MPs are given one full week to scrutinize the Budget.”

Prime Minister Marape reiterated that the week ahead will be dedicated to Budget examination by all Leaders, in line with the Government’s commitment to mature Parliamentary practice. He encouraged all MPs to take advantage of the opportunity provided. “I have advised all Government Leaders to go through the Budget in detail,” he said. “We will be in Parliament tomorrow (Wednesday), Thursday and Friday. Leaders have the opportunity to pair the Budget to their Districts, Provinces, and Ministerial responsibilities and understand how it translates into tangible service delivery for our people.”

The Prime Minister further announced that the Opposition will be given the floor next Tuesday to present their official Budget Reply, consistent with the process upheld throughout his administration.

“We will give time to the Opposition to reply next week, Tuesday,” he affirmed. “After they present their response, I and relevant Ministers responsible for implementing the Budget will reply to the points they raise, ensuring the country is fully informed about our progress in 2025 and what we intend to accomplish in 2026.”

PM Marape stressed that transparency and respect for Parliamentary processes are hallmarks of his leadership and reflect a significant departure from previous practices.

“In the past, Budgets were bulldozed through—hands pressed down, passed in the same day, Parliament adjourned immediately,” he noted. “We beg to differ. This Government respects all Leaders and upholds proper process. Parliamentary democracy must be meaningful, not ceremonial.”

He highlighted that the Government’s approach ensures the country remains fully aware of how public funds are being used, what programs are being delivered, and how the Budget aligns with the broader development agenda.

“Our people deserve to understand how we are tracking against the 2025 Budget and what we will do in 2026,” Prime Minister Marape said. “This is why we take the time to explain, debate, and respond. Transparency strengthens democracy, builds trust, and ensures national stability.”

Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed that Parliament will resume next week to continue Budget debate in an orderly and respectful manner.

“Leaders will have today, tomorrow, Thursday, Friday, and the weekend to study the Budget. We will debate next Tuesday and adjourn after proper and considered debate. That is the way it should be—and that is how we will continue to operate.”

The Prime Minister concluded by calling for unity and constructive engagement across the Political spectrum.

“As leaders elected by our people, our duty is to engage honestly and respectfully,” he said. “Let us debate on the facts, debate for the country, and ensure that the 2026 Budget delivers meaningful outcomes for Papua New Guinea.”