Port Moresby | Sunday, 20 July 2025
Prime Minister James Marape has announced the appointment of Mr. Gerea Aopi as the new Chairman of the Board of Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL), amid growing calls for stronger oversight and transparency following governance allegations reported by the Australian media.
Mr. Aopi’s appointment, which predates the recent media revelations, is seen by the Government as a timely opportunity to restore credibility and accountability within the state-owned enterprise. Prime Minister Marape said the new Chairman would be expected to lead a full and independent review into the issues raised.
“Gerea Aopi is a man of experience, integrity, and professionalism in the oil and gas sector,” Prime Minister Marape said. “He has been appointed at a time when our national oil and gas company needs steady and credible leadership to uphold its integrity and international reputation.”
The Prime Minister confirmed that his office has formally requested all documentation and investigative findings from the media outlet that published the allegations. Additionally, he has written to Kumul Petroleum’s Managing Director, Mr. Wapu Sonk, seeking an official response and clarification.
“As the Trustee Shareholder, I am duty-bound to protect the interests of our people and our country,” Mr. Marape stated. “Mr. Sonk has been asked to clarify his position in light of the reported concerns.”
Urging the public to avoid premature conclusions, the Prime Minister emphasized the principle of due process. “These matters are under international scrutiny, but we must remember that Mr. Wapu Sonk, like any citizen, is innocent until proven otherwise. In the past, some of our leaders have been unfairly judged by the media, only to be cleared later, such as Minister William Duma’s successful legal challenge.”
“This is not a witch hunt,” Mr. Marape said. “It is about protecting governance, ensuring transparency, and safeguarding the reputation of Kumul Petroleum — a key economic institution with global partnerships.”
He further stated that all State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), including their leaders, must meet the highest standards of ethical and professional conduct. “If you lead a public institution, your conduct must be beyond reproach. Our SOEs must be examples of good governance and accountability.”
Highlighting the digital nature of financial transactions today, Mr. Marape noted, “In this modern era, all transactions leave footprints. If the allegations have merit, they will be substantiated. If not, they will be dismissed. Either way, due process must take its course.”
The Prime Minister also appealed to citizens and social media users to refrain from spreading unverified claims. “I urge the public to avoid personal attacks or speculative commentary. The national interest and Kumul Petroleum’s reputation are at stake.”
Mr. Marape acknowledged the unfortunate timing of the issue, especially as PNG continues to engage international investors in the oil and gas sector. “This development is regrettable, particularly as we work to attract global investment in major energy projects like Papua LNG, P’nyang, and Pasca A. Trust and credibility must be restored swiftly.”
He concluded with a firm message of assurance: “The Government will act swiftly, fairly, and transparently. I expect a preliminary report on my desk by Wednesday. Our people deserve accountability, and we will uphold the integrity of the process in the national interest.”
