MCPNG and TIPNG Reaffirmed as Co-Chairs of CCAC at National Meeting

TIPNG Chairman Peter Aitsi addressing the Community Coalition Against Corruption (CCAC) National Conference in Lae, Morobe province.

Lae, Papua New Guinea — In a resounding show of confidence, members of the Community Coalition Against Corruption (CCAC) have unanimously endorsed the Media Council of Papua New Guinea (MCPNG) and Transparency International PNG (TIPNG) to continue serving as the coalition’s Co-Chairs. This significant decision underscores the coalition’s steadfast commitment to addressing corruption and promoting transparency and accountability throughout the country.

The unanimous endorsement was formalized during the CCAC’s first-ever National Meeting, held in Lae on April 24. This landmark gathering brought together a diverse array of organizations and marked a pivotal moment for the coalition as it recalibrates its focus on exposing and combatting systemic corruption that has hindered national progress.

As a collective, the CCAC represents a unique blend of civil society organizations, churches, media, trade unions, and industry groups. The coalition operates as a collaborative force, uniting voices from various sectors to tackle pressing national issues. This inclusive approach ensures that the fight against corruption reflects the shared aspirations of the Papua New Guinean people.

The one-day meeting in Lae was co-hosted by the CCAC and the Lae Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The event was made possible through the generous support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) PNG Anti-Corruption Project and the Media Development Initiative. Over 90 participants from 46 organizations attended, representing a broad cross-section of Papua New Guinea’s societal fabric, including the media, business houses, churches, trade unions, youth, and women’s groups.

Discussions during the meeting centered on actionable strategies to strengthen accountability mechanisms, promote good governance, and empower citizens to demand transparency from their leaders. Participants engaged in dynamic exchanges on how to collaboratively address the root causes of corruption and create a society where integrity prevails.

The endorsement of MCPNG and TIPNG as Co-Chairs is a testament to the confidence CCAC members have in their ability to spearhead the coalition’s mission. Both organizations bring extensive experience, credibility, and dedication to the table, making them well-suited to guide the coalition’s efforts.

MCPNG President Neville Choi speaking to Lae Media following a successful Community Coalition Against Corruption (CCAC) National Conference at which CCAC members unanimously voted for the MCPNG and TIPNG to continue as Co-Chairs of the CCAC.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Media Council of PNG, Nevile Choi, thanked the coalition members for their trust and reaffirmed MCPNG and TIPNG’s commitment to leading the charge against corruption.

"This overwhelming endorsement reflects the trust and confidence our coalition members have in MCPNG and TIPNG to lead this critical fight. It is not just a vote of confidence in our leadership but a call to action for all of us to work harder in tackling corruption, which continues to undermine the progress and prosperity of our nation," he said.

He continued, "The Media Council of PNG and Transparency International PNG are dedicated to fostering transparency, accountability, and good governance across every sector. Together, with the diverse voices of civil society, churches, media, trade unions, businesses, and youth and women’s groups, we have the power to bring about meaningful change. Our mission is clear: to shine a spotlight on systemic issues, hold those in power accountable, and build a society where corruption has no place."

As the CCAC charts its course for the future, its renewed focus on uniting key stakeholders and amplifying collective efforts will be crucial. The coalition remains determined to create a corruption-free Papua New Guinea, leveraging the strengths of its diverse membership to drive meaningful and lasting change.