Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has outlined the progress made by his government since taking office in 2019, expressing confidence in its ability to lead Papua New Guinea (PNG) through the upcoming Vote of No Confidence (VONC) and beyond. Marape acknowledged the challenges faced by the country, including a recession, COVID-19, and global inflation, but emphasized that his administration had taken significant steps to assist the people during difficult times. “We tried our best to assist our people in these trying times, whether it be in tax relief, school fees, training of police, betterment of judicial services, ensuring that no parts of the country are left behind through distribution of infrastructure funds, district development funds, provincial development funds, SME development, agriculture freight and price support, greater focus on agriculture and livestock, and the renewable sector,” Marape said. The Prime Minister explained that many of the government's initiatives would take time to produce results, likening it to farming. “What we have started will not bear fruit immediately - you do not go and chop down trees, clear bushes, plant a garden to harvest right away; it takes time to grow,” he noted. Marape urged the public to give the government time to deliver on its promises and asked for their patience until the 2027 National General Election, stressing the importance of accountability, stating, “If we go through and come out of this successfully defending our government next Thursday, give us until 2027 to govern the country, and you can then pass judgment on us.” Confident in the support of Pangu MPs and coalition partners, Marape believes his government will continue its work of reconstructing and developing the economy.