The Papua New Guinea cabinet has axed the proposed sale of Telikom PNG to African company Econet Wireless Group.
A special sitting voted not to proceed with the sale, six months after the initial announcement by Dr Puka Temu, the Minister for State Enterprises and Information.
Confirming the Cabinet's decision in a statement, Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare said the NEC had decided that they would re-look at the Telikom sale.
He said the Government would re-examine its options, including calling for fresh tenders.
The Opposition Leader Peter O'Neill warmly welcomed the Government's decision.
Mr O'Neil says he commends the Government for being sensitive and responsive to public outcry against the proposed sale.
