War on PNG Chiefs

Former Prime Minister Peter O’Neill has lashed out at the Marape-Rosso Government over the recruitment of PNG Chiefs players and the tax-free incentives offered.

Mr O’Neill described this as outrageous and criticised the Government.

The former Prime Minister also expressed concerns over reports of player poaching.

But Prime Minister James Marape has denied all these claims.

With the recent visit and signing of West Tigers star and former Penrith playmaker Jerome Luai, the Ialibu Pangia MP lashed out at the handling and conduct of affairs of PNG Chiefs.

He said the team is sponsored by Australian taxpayers' money, and this is totally wrong.

But Prime Minister James Marape denied Mr O’Neill’s claim stating the establishment of PNG Chiefs has specific roles under bilateral agreements signed by the two countries.

Mr Marape highlighted this after arriving from China on Friday.

With PNG Chiefs having less than 2 years to prepare and pull as team together to enter NRL in 2028, the former Prime Minister also shared concerns on player poaching by leaders in Government.

Responding to this, the Prime Minister Marape denied this stating the Government is not luring players in the NRL.

He pointed out that players have contracts and proper processes will be followed.

The Prime Minister highlighted putting the team together is critical.