PNG power disconnected because of government debt

3:30 pm on 16 February 2017

Power has been disconnected from Papua New Guinea's Government House and Parliament House because of outstanding bills.

Papua New Guinea parliament facade.

Papua New Guinea parliament facade. Photo: RNZI / Johnny Blades

The Post Courier reported that the electricity service provider PNG Power started its disconnection exercise on Tuesday, forcing some institutions to close.

The Acting Parliament Clerk Kala Aufa confirmed the power cut that forced him to order fuel to get the standby generator going.

Power was also cut to other institutions in Port Moresby, including the Police headquarters and the Lawes Road health centre.

Officers at the Government House were not able to perform their ceremonial duties yesterday, but even without electricity, the acting Governor-General Theodore Zurenuoc managed to swear in two acting judges.