Nuni Kulu has been appointed as the new BSP Financial Group Limited (BSP) Group Chief Operating Officer (GCOO) on Wednesday 26th April, 2023. This makes Ms. Kulu the first Papua New Guinean woman to have this leadership role in its history. With a career that spans over 25 years in the banking industry, Ms. Kulu entered as a graduate trainee in 1998, before moving into Retail Banking in 2019. Ms. Kulu worked across various roles at BSP and was later appointed to General Manager where she led the first Digital Strategy Business Unit for BSP. After the recent resignation of Frank van der Poll, Ms. Kulu was appointed as the internal successor to the GCOO role and will now be responsible for the Bank’s operations functions across PNG and the six Pacific Island countries that BSP operates in. BSP Group CEO Mark Robinson said, “The strategic role of GCOO is critically important for BSP. It requires a leader who fosters relationships based on integrity, is focused on the operational efficiency of the bank, and builds internal team capability through process improvement.” “Ms. Kulu understands the nuances of working in complex and challenging environments. Her deep knowledge of banking, digital, and her connection to customer and community will support BSP to continue to transform our banking services”. After her appointment Ms. Kulu announced, “I am privileged to be in a position to help shape the operations of the largest bank across the Pacific and I am committed to making banking easier for our customers.” “I am honoured to assume the Chief Operating Officer position within the Group and I hope to inspire and mentor others to take on similar leadership roles.” Meanwhile BSP Board Chairman, Robert Bradshaw remarked; “the BSP Board is delighted to see the investment BSP has made to promote the next generation of Papua New Guinean women as executive leaders, reflected in Ms. Kulu’s appointment to this senior role”. Ms. Kulu hails from Manus and holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the Australian National University. BSP is proud to support women in leadership through meritocracy and BSP invests in the development of both male and female leaders and encourages Papua New Guineans to excel in their areas of expertise.

Today, on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day or Media Freedom Day in PNG, the PNG Media Council President Neville Choi said, "While we celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the ratification of World Press Freedom Day, or Media Freedom Day as we like to refer to it, we must take stock of the important role of the media in our country." “World Press Freedom Day may just be turning 30, but the role of the media in Papua New Guinea, goes back much farther." "From preparing a country for independence, and through to the establishment of a robust mainstream media industry responsible for effective public discourse, and holding our national leadership to account for the decisions they have made." Choi added that the media in PNG has been much more than just a disseminator of news and information. "It has spoken for the people when public roads have deteriorated because of neglect; and it has more than once, been the voice of reason, shining the light on the need for better systems of governance and administration." “The theme for this year’s Media Freedom Day is a timely reminder to each of us as Papua New Guineans, as to the crucial role the media plays in our lives, and our future." “Media Freedom, despite all the criticism levelled at its practitioners, is the foundation of active, informed participation by our people." "Without the mainstream media, we would not enjoy the many other freedoms we have today." “For the sake of our future generations, we must allow the media to freely, and effectively, perform its role – to hold truth to power, and to give a voice for those who find themselves voiceless in our communities domestically, and regionally in the Pacific Region." He further stated, “We the free media in Papua New Guinea, can set the foundation for a regional media free to practice its craft." "It is no longer a necessary tool restricted to just informing." "Free media in PNG continues to develop in its role as a sounding board, spotlight, and active player in our national and regional discourse – it is a necessary pillar of democracy, and one that should be defended at every cost." "To all our Editors and News Managers, the responsibility of lifting our industry standards rests solely on your shoulders as keepers of the front line." "You have the MCPNG's support in ensuring that proper training pathways are established for all levels of our industry personnel." "To all our media practitioners, the work you do every day is necessary. For today, and for our people tomorrow." Choi also said, "Be diligent, be proactive, and be innovative in how you disseminate information and news. Know that lives depend on how you frame and tell your stories. You are an important part of our country's public discourse. Wield this power with responsibility."

Papua New Guinea National Research Institute (PNGNRI) is looking at collaborating with DataCo in cybersecurity research and awareness. PNG NRI began National Security and International Relations Research Program last year, headed by Dr Olubenga Ige, to do research into cybersecurity as this is a looming issue. In a meeting with DataCo Information and Communication Technology (ICT) General Manager (Cloud and Data Centre) David Mba and Dr Immanuel Jigo – a PNG born cybersecurity expert from the US who is also a consultant to DataCo; the two institutions are looking at signing a Memorandum of Understanding for this collaboration. Dr Jigo has been working in the areas of security research in terms of analyzing malware, ransomware, studying how malicious actors get into different systems as well as other IT-related work. “The human aspect in cybersecurity is very important because even if you have the strongest cybersecurity infrastructure in place, that won’t matter if a human being makes an error, clicks on the wrong link, or inputs details on the wrong login page, that’s the most important thing,” Dr Jigo said. He said educating the people of PNG and teaching them basics and how to identify different security threats is very important to increase cyber hygiene and deliver cybersecurity protection in the country. “There’s a lot of disconnect between what the government is doing and what the private organisations are doing.” “There is a need to some essential frameworks in place that can manage everything.” He added, “Now, PNG would be an easy target and collaboration between Government, private sector and individuals is needed to create and improve awareness about cybersecurity within the country.” Dr Jige further said creating some sort of potential curriculums within the country that can help the youth of this country develop their skills could also be another collaboration. Meanwhile, PNGNRI Deputy Director for Research, Professor Eugene Ezebilo said the institute has not done much when it comes to cybersecurity. “Cybersecurity is important in terms of attracting investors into the country, especially in promoting the ease of doing business.” The Deputy Director thanked Dr Jigo and Mr Mba and welcomed them to work together with PNG NRI in the area of cybersecurity.

Another day, more drama - this time thanks to water cuts through parts of the Port Moresby city with no advance advise. Thousands of city residents wake up to no water as they prepare for what is supposed to be a normal school and working day. So far, centres without water include 6 mile, parts of 5 mile and Hohola, Gerehu, Tokarara, Mahuru, Koki, Badili, and Badihagwa. Stay with us for more updates on this developing story and follow our website and facebook page for more.

The deferral of the return of writs for the 2022 National General Elections from this Friday 29th July, to Friday 12th August, has posed a constitutional dilemma and much public debate on its legality. Former Chief Justice and statesman Sir Arnold Amet said this decision from the PNG Electoral Commissioner was wrong, pointing to the Constitutional law as reference. “The 5th anniversary of the return of the writs refers to the previous elections that are principally provided for in section 105 of the constitution, which provides for the General Elections. Section 104 provides for the normal term of office.” “The date fixed for the return of writs is critical for the taking of office for members of Parliament.” Sir Arnold further said that the normal term of office for a Member of Parliament is 5 years from the date fixed for the return of writs from previous election to the date fixed for return of writs in the current elections. “In section 105, this provides for the general elections to be held within 3 months before the 5th anniversary of the date fixed for return of writs for previous general elections and it cannot go beyond that.” Sir Arnold added that in the original date when return of writs was fixed to July 29th this Friday, it was within 7 days of the date fixed for the return of writs in previous elections which was 3rd of August 2017. “The date fixed for the return of the writs is critically tied to the 5th anniversary of the date fixed for return of the writs from previous elections.” “Because of all circumstances and advice given, extended dates of returns of writs from 29th July to 12th August, now exceeds considerably dates fixed for return of writs from the previous general elections which was 3rd August.” Sir Arnold further stated that the calling of Parliament would then need to be within 7 days which would be 18th August for Parliament to meet for the first time which is already considerably outside of the 5th anniversary of current Parliament. “Going beyond that you're into a constitutional vacuum when members of Parliament term have expired after the 5 years.” “I've not gone into organic law in calling of Parliament but this is as per the Constitution section 104 and 105 which is explicit about dates of returns of writs should be fixed by reference of return of writs date of the previous general elections.” “You go outside of that and you go into unconstitutional territory.” Meanwhile, Sir Arnold further added that there is a power in the Head of State upon advice of the PNGEC and recommendation from Electoral Advisory Committee who can advise if it is not practical to conclude counting by date fixed for the return of the writs. “The constitutional provision is the withdrawal of writs by the Head of State in a case by case electorate by electorate circumstance.” “There is a small window of time only that the return of writs can be extended from 29th to 3rd August next week.” Sir Arnold said failing that and electorates not able to declare a result, the Head of State can be advised to withdraw the writs and supplementary elections are held when circumstances permit.” “That's the process of what is generally described as failed elections when writs are withdrawn by the Head of State upon advice.”

Observation Report between 0900-1100 In Port Moresby today PMV’s and taxis are running on the roads again and service stations are open with business as usual at the PUMA service stations at Waigani, Hohola, and Rainbow. Mobil fuel stations at 5 Mile & Waigani are open but Lahara is closed. Also open are Total service stations at 4 Mile, Badili and Gerehu. Shops open include Brian Plaza Open, RH, Vision City, TST 4 mile, SVS 2 mile, Cholai Badili, TST Hohola, Tango Tokara, Eliseo Waigani, Stop N Shop Rainbow, Jmart & all shops at Gerehu line. For fresh produce, Tokarara Market is closed but Waigani market remains open today. Schools closed included Ted Diro, De La Salle, Sacred Heart Primary, Tokarara Secondary, June Valley Primary, Tokarara Primary, Port Moresby National High, Gerehu Secondary, Wardstrip Primary, Coronation Primary, Ela Murray International, Paradise High School, Malolo International, & St. Therese Badili Primary school to name a few. The city is mostly quiet as people attempt to return to some normalcy. Listen in to the news on NAU FM, Yumi FM and Legend FM and follow this page for more updates.

Looks like it's a very slow start to back to business as normal this Tuesday morning for NCD. There are not many PMVs on the road this morning although buses are running. Limited private vehicles even with the roads far less congested roads at this time. There is also no sign of students on the roads heading to school if any. Some shops are open such as the Jmart in Erima. Meanwhile, refueling is a major concern as there was already a long line of vehicles lined up outside the Total service station Boroko for fuel. Stay well POM city, more updates soon. Keep listening in to the news on NAU FM, Yumi FM and Legend FM and follow our news website pnghausbung.com for more.

It is important for all partners and stakeholders to work with the Madang Provincial Health Authority to strengthen capacity for COVID-19 testing. That’s from Vaccine Program Manager, Dr. Gideon Gelesi following the recent announcement of the 1st local delta-variant case in Madang. "There’s been an increase in the number of respiratory-like illnesses also." Dr. Gelesi further stated that there might even be others in the community who may have the virus through community transmission which is yet to be detected. "More testing will help the team to identify if there are new cases of delta variant." He added that there is not enough testing and swabbing done in the province to identify the cases and the cases may be underreported. Meanwhile Dr Gelesi also extended an appeal to health workers and other frontline agencies and local community in Madang to be vaccinated. "Madang has reported one case of delta-variant and all parties must work together to support the provincial health authority if there is a surge."

It has been a little more than 2 months since the untimely and tragic murder of 6-year-old Shane Benjamin and 2-year-old Ethan Benjamin. In the time since the horrific incident that occurred on Tuesday the 27th April 2021, the alleged murderer and biological father Dave Benjamin Gau has been remanded at Bomana Correctional Services awaiting his murder trial and court date. Meanwhile, both babies are still awaiting a proper Funeral service and burial arrangements as they wait to be laid properly to rest. This newsroom spoke with a still grieving mum Elsie Yangae on the delays behind the babies planned finalized funeral arrangements. It has been a long process riddled with expenses and the main one being the Funeral cost expenses for Elsie. “The boys are at Erima Funeral Home and total funeral expenses are K35, 000 and K20, 000 has already been paid.” Casket and outfits are set and the tomb in the Erap area Morobe are also ready. “This has been a really stressful time for me and the costs are a major part of this.” “Days are counting down and thoughts of laying my babies to rest is really breaking me, mi pilim strong blo mi pinis but I’m just trying to be strong and give them the farewell and rest they deserve.” The tentative dates for funeral program is July 15th 2021 but arrangements aren’t finalized yet. For anyone wanting to help support in any way and assist Elsie with her expenses for Shane and Ethan, you may do so by sending contributions to the Shane and Ethan Memorial Fund BSP Account# 7023066199.

For years on end, most people in Milne Bay Province and the country knew it as the Milamala Festival, a festival that celebrated the significance of their most loved staple starch; the Yam. However, this year the name has been changed to Kiriwina Cultural Show in the hope to become a more inclusive Cultural Festival celebrating not only the mainland of the Kiriwina-Goodenough District but also the outer islands surrounding the mainland. Festival Coordinator Modakula Kunuyobu said this was to promote unity in celebration of their culture , including everyone that made up the District. “We want all neighboring tribes to participate and including our three main islands Kitava Island, Vakuta Island and Kaileuna Islands so they can also display their unique culture to everyone visiting,” Mr. Kunuyobu said. With the date set the Kiriwina Cultural Festival is happening from 30th June to 2nd July at the Losuia Oval Station in the District. “Despite the hardships because Covid-19, this event falls under the Milne Bay Tourism Authority Integrated Development Plan which requires each of the 4 districts in the Province to display their cultural heritage annually,” Mr. Kunuyobu added. “So this is Kiriwina-Goodenough District ticking off their box.” With the kind of backing, all 33 wards in the District will be displaying their Arts and Crafts especially their woodwork, different cultural singsings and dance and more importantly the celebration of their Yam Harvest. “It is through this that our cultural heritage never dies out, our cultural identity is intact and/or restored,” Mr. Kunuyobu said. “With so much western influence it is through such events that we preserve and maintain our important cultural ties.” Important delegates such the Governor of Milne Bay and local members are expected to be present during the 3 day event.

With an aim of changing the name tag ‘Wildwest' into ‘Laigaip Paradise', the Laigaip Sangai Cultural Festival is all set to happen on the 28th-29th July, 2021 at the Wanepap Primary school grounds in the Laiagam District, Enga Province. According to Festival Chairman Mr. Tony Sulupen prepartions for this 2 day cultural event is well underway in the district. “Locals have already cleaned up the 4km stretch of road from Kanak to Koki in the Pilikambi LLG, building of guest houses have already started, beautification of the main road and posters and billboards have already gone up,” said Mr. Sulupen. “Host tribes Laipian and Kaimul are behind all these progress and are excited that the inaugural festival is happening for the second time to promote their heritage.” The main event of the Laigaip Sangai Festival is the ritual of initiating young boys into manhood and will see 60 local young boys go through the initiation process. “The Sangai was practiced to signify the passage if rite in growth and development of young boys into Manhood, but died out during the tribal fights in the Province and the influences of the Western Culture,” Mr. Sulupen added. “Apart from the main event, there will be 10 cultural groups participating and 20 mix groups that will participating in unique local arts and crafts, poems and sing sings just to name a few.” This Festival was initiated in 2019 with its first show happening last year which attracted over 10,000 people. “We want to bring more tourists into the District, to expose our unique culture and also change people’s perception of the District.” Mr. Sulupen also thanked the sponsorship of the Laigaip Porgera District, the Enga Provincial Government and the Tourism Promotion Authority PNG.

Health workers should be taking the lead in receiving the COVID-19 vaccine which should pave the way for the rest of the population to follow suit. This remark was made by Port Moresby General Hospital’s Chief Executive Officer Dr. Paki Molumi following the hesitancy displayed by the staff of the hospital during the vaccine roll out. “POMGEN's total staff is 1600 but 500 of the staff have received the vaccination which is very disappointing,” said Dr. Molumi. “This hesitancy stems from Health Workers who believe misleading information regarding the Vaccine on Social Media.” He said once all health workers get vaccinated then it will be easier for them to help COVID-19 patients and it also lessens the burden on them.  Meanwhile the Hospital continues to advocate and raise awareness regarding the vaccine among its staff and they hope to get more staff vaccinated this week going forward.