PM’s office refutes ‘stranded’ claims

The Office of the Prime Minister has formally dismissed media reports claiming Prime Minister James Marape was stranded in Wewak for three hours following his official visit to East Sepik Province.

The Prime Minister had been in the region to launch several key projects across Maprik, Angoram, and Wewak. Government officials clarified that the subsequent delay involved standard aviation safety protocols rather than a mechanical failure or lack of transport.

During departure preparations for the state-owned Falcon Jet, the aircraft attempted to takeoff twice but did not proceed as required. Following strict aviation guidelines, the pilots and onboard engineer conducted routine precautionary checks.

The Prime Minister’s Office emphasized that the delay was a direct result of these safety inspections. Once the engineering team cleared the aircraft for flight, the Prime Minister and his delegation departed Wewak safely and without further incident.

"At no time was the Prime Minister stranded," the statement read. "The brief delay was simply the result of normal safety checks conducted in accordance with international aviation standards."

The Office commended the flight crew and engineers for their professionalism and for prioritizing the safety of all passengers on board.