Prime Minister James Marape seemed over the moon whilst expressing his appreciation for the significant progress made in the longstanding relationship between Australia and Papua New Guinea, following the signing of the historic A$200 million (K455 million) Bilateral Security Agreement with Australian counterpart, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The agreement between both governments is seen as a monumental step in strengthening diplomatic ties facilitates Australia's commitment to providing $200 million in security assistance to Papua New Guinea, addressing both internal and regional security concerns. A meeting then ensued following the signing between Prime Ministers Albanese and Marape, attended by key ministers and senior public servants from both nations. The agreement encompasses a comprehensive support package, which includes infrastructure development and training initiatives for the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary. Additionally, it extends support to the judiciary, correctional services, addresses gender-based violence, and entails the establishment of a police recruit and investigation training centre. The overarching goal is to empower Papua New Guinea in building a larger and more capable police force, while also offering training assistance to other Pacific nations. Expressing gratitude for the generous support, Prime Minister Marape highlighted the multifaceted impact the A$200 million package would have on enhancing security in the region. "This is a significant milestone in relationships between our two countries since 1975 when Papua New Guinea gained independence from Australia,” he said. Acknowledging the broader security challenges facing Papua New Guinea, Marape emphasised the alignment of the agreement with the nation's strategic priorities.

Silver medalist in the 74kg weight division and a proud son of Enga, Anderson Mangela is calling on the government to make ready more facilities and avenues in the country to groom more athletes in the sporting code of powerlifting. Mangela scored an overall total of 625kg to come second to Nauru’s powerhouse, Brocka Scotty in the final session of the Men’s competition at the Maranatha Hall in Honiara. He said that it was proud moment for himself and his family but still thinks PNG can go one step further. The 38-year-old veteran believes that PNG can become a powerhouse in the code if they invest more into building the current athletes and paving the way for upcoming athletes and those interested in taking up the sport. “The Government should do more for us, they should build more facilities specifically for powerlifting, so we can get more people coming in to the code and more interaction with the grassroots.” He told PNG HAUSBUNG there are athletes out there that have the potential to make it to the top and believes that more exposure should be given to the sport to develop it into a more professional code.

Team PNG athletes and official were welcomed home on Wednesday night by the PNG Olympic committee following their participation at the 2023 Pacific Games that concluded in the Solomon Islands. PNGOC President John Dawanicura during his address to the athletes and family members extended a word of thanks for their performance over the two weeks of competition. President Dawanicura thanked them for their dedication and commitment in competing against some of the best in the Pacific. “Their dedication [the athletes] as well as their performances speaks volumes of the achievements of the individuals.” “Again, your hard work brought honour and pride to our nation.” Team PNG collected 105 medals at the games, collecting 29 Gold, 37 silver and 39 bronze medals concluding with 105 medals overall and landing the 5th spot in the pacific standings. He thanked all sponsors and stakeholders of Team PNG for their continuous support in helping the PNGOC and team in achieving their goals and ambitions. Following a long list of thank you to all personnel that put an effort into making it possible for team PNG to take part in international sporting events, the president called for more financial support by the government. Highlighting that funding for sports has been non-existent for much of the last 8 years. “Include sports in your budget.” “Include sports in whatever decisions that are made because it is part of integral part of human development.” “Team PNG represents the entire country, encompassing sports that carry the Papua New Guinea flag.”

Although disappointed with the outcome of the Supreme Court ruling, Ialibu-Pangia MP Peter O’Neill says he respects the decision made by the five-man bench that ruled that there were breaches of the constitution in the election and their ruling to not to intervene in the Parliamentary election of the Prime Minister. As per Court records, the Court declared that the requirement of s 1(1) of the Organic Law on the Calling of Meetings of the Parliament that the notice in the National Gazette fixing the time and date of the first meeting of the Parliament after the 2022 general election be published after the date fixed for the return of the Writs was not complied with. O’Neill stated he was quite disappointed with the ruling and that serious breaches of the constitution had occurred he respects their decision. “Of course, I am disappointed that the decision did not go our way and that the serious breaches of our Constitution occurred, but I will respect the ruling of the Supreme Court made Wednesday morning in Waigani.” It is declared noncompliance with s 1 (1) of the Organic Law on the Calling of Meetings of the Parliament in respect of the 2022 general election was in circumstances of this case inconsequential. “Subsequently the Court refused my application to declare the first meeting of Parliament on the 9th of August 2022 as unconstitutional.” However, the Court also declared that the s 1 (3) of the Organic Law on the Calling of Meetings of the Parliament is Unconstitutional. “I know many of you will find this very confusing that the Court would rule in my favour that matters were unconstitutional but then still rule that the election of the Prime Minister was okay.” “My layman’s interpretation is that the Court has chosen to state that the election was unconstitutional but not to intervene in the Parliament process stating that just because it was unconstitutional does not mean that changing the events would have led to a different outcome. “The Courts have handed down the ruling that the breaches of our Constitution did not have a consequence on the election of the Prime Minister on the 9th of August 2022.” He thanked his legal team and supporters for their dedication and professionalism to uphold the Constitution by having the last election tested by the Supreme Court.

Following a meeting with the General Manager of Alibaba Cloud for New Zealand & Australia, the Secretary of the Department of Information & Communications Technology, Steven Matainaho has advised that the department is excited to explore a potential of partnering with the Alibaba Cloud that looks towards enhancing the efficiency and scope of government services. A meeting held between the Department and Alibaba Cloud recently focused on Alibaba’s potential to support the Government’s Digital Transformation agenda especially in the space of whole-of-government cloud solutions and digital payments. Pier Smulders, General Manager of Alibaba Cloud New Zealand and Australia, expressed the Cloud Giant’s strong interest in collaborating with the PNG government. “We are committed to supporting PNG’s digital transformation journey and believe our cloud services can help the country achieve its goals.” The Government of PNG intends to explore the potential of partnering with Alibaba Cloud to leverage on their expertise and experience in cloud computing which will play a significant role in advancing the country’s digital economy. Stephen Nukuitu, Deputy Secretary Operations of the Department of Finance who highlighted the potential for Alibaba Cloud’s solutions to revolutionize government payments and drive financial inclusion in PNG. “Alibaba Cloud’s offerings have the potential to transform how the PNG government makes and receives payments,” “This could have a significant impact on the efficiency and transparency of government spending,” Mr Nukuitu said. This strategic dialogue followed the public release of a series of Requests for Information (RFIs) on various components of the Government Technology Stack. The next round of discussions between the PNG government and Alibaba Cloud will focus on the technical aspects of Alibaba Cloud’s services and how they align with the PNG government’s key priorities. The aim is to establish a long-term partnership roadmap that will foster mutual growth and technological advancement.

Prime Minister James Marape has called on all citizens to prioritize the development of the country and abstain from unnecessary political conflicts. This call comes in the wake of Ialibu-Pangu MP Peter O'Neill's unsuccessful Supreme Court review application of 2022 General Election yesterday. The Prime Minister stated that the majority ruling against his appeal signifies the need for the people, as a nation, to shift attention towards fostering growth and progress in various sectors. “While acknowledging O'Neill's exercise of his constitutional right for legal recourse, it is equally important for the country to move past this matter and channel efforts towards key governmental focal points, such as Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and other critical sectors contributing to our nation's advancement.” He reaffirmed that his government is committed to fairness and inclusivity for all individuals contributing to our nation's betterment and called on every citizen to rise above political divides and unite and to facilitate the country’s development. “It is imperative to highlight that Papua New Guinea faces challenges, including addressing law and order issues, strengthening the economy, improving public service delivery, and managing the Bougainville situation.” He added that despite the potential disruption the Supreme Court decision had the power to cause, he continued with his pre-scheduled meeting with the Australian Government, underscoring his commitment to putting Papua New Guinea’s interests above his own. PMJM firmly believes that work for Papua New Guinea never stops. The nation's prosperity and well-being depend on our collective efforts to address pressing issues.

Local communities in New Ireland Province are questioning the actions of the New Ireland Provincial Government, stating that although Prime Minister James Marape has publicly voiced and supported a moratorium on Deep Sea Mining, the NIPG are still pursuing discussions with deep sea miners. According to Jonathan Mesulam, Director of the West Coast Development Foundation [WCDF] and member of the Alliance of Solwara Warriors, on 13th of last month, the NIPG held dialogues with joint venture companies, Deep Sea Mining Finance and Sustainable Mining Solution who acquired the assets of Nautilus Minerals Niugini Ltd. This meeting was met with strong opposition from local communities. "We express our gratitude to PM James Marape for courageously supporting the MSG's call for a moratorium on seabed mining – a call that is also been made by 24 states around the world.” “However, we question why the company is still present in the country and continues to hold discussions regarding the seabed mining project.” “The company must now heed our Prime Minister's call and depart from our shores,” Mesulam said. A forum organized by the WCDF, Caritas and other local groups held on 4th October in Namatanai submitted a petition to the President of Namatanai LLG, Joshua Takin. A second petition was submitted to the Office of the Governor on 24th November at a 500-people strong forum in Kavieng. The petitions called for a ban on seabed mining and all licenses to be cancelled as well as highlighting other human rights violations faced by the people of New Ireland. Caritas coordinator, John Momori emphasized that the petition should serve as a reminder to the provincial government that discussions on seabed mining have been exhausted. “It is extremely disheartening that our provincial leaders remain silent on this issue despite the people's resistance to seabed mining for over 13 years and PM Marape’s announcement.” “This clearly demonstrates the greed and self-interest of politicians who exploit the people for personal gain.” “We attended two planned warden hearings this year both of which were postponed.” “This clearly indicates that the Mineral Resource Authority, New Ireland government and the company have failed to gather the opinions and consent of local communities.” Momori asserted that this should be sufficient grounds for the cancellation of all exploration and mining licenses. Local community leader, Mr. Hubert Melake of the Malas Foundation, has expressed support for the campaign and urges all New Irelanders to stand up and voice their opposition to such treatment by our political leaders: “We will not rest. We will continue to monitor the government and Nautilus's next course of action.” “Today marks a crucial moment in our history as we witness an increasing number of people supporting not only the fight against seabed mining but also addressing other issues affecting the local population.”

With the 8th PNG Games set for the 10th through to the 20th of January next year, the PNG Games Council is calling on business houses and State-owned enterprises to support the games. Chair of the PNG Games Council, Albert Veratau stated that the Games Organizing Committee has yet to score sponsors but is still optimistic that they will deliver. “Therefore, I appeal to potential sponsors and SoE’s to come forward and support the Games organizers to deliver a successful Games. Your contributions in cash and kind will be appreciated.” Veratau also extended an invitation to all government agencies, NGO, Business Organizations, and development partners to come forward and set up stall at sporting venues in the city to showcase their products. About 200,000 people are expected to visit the games venues over the 10 days.

Port Moresby get ready! The PNG Olympic Committee has confirmed that the long-awaited 8th PNG Games will be staged in the early part of January in partnership with the National Capital District Commission, 11 Sports Federations and other Stakeholders. Following postponement twice early this year due to lack of funds and overlapping schedules with that of the 2023 Solomon Island Pacific Games, PNG Sports Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Albert Veratau was delighted to announce the confirmation of the Games. “To date, 18 provinces have confirmed participation by accreditation. Late Entries are expected from the four remaining provinces which are Enga, East Sepik Madang & East New Britain,” Veratau said. All Provinces will be participating in 11 different sports which include Athletics, Basketball, Boxing, Soccer, Powerlifting, Rugby Nines, Touch, Volleyball, Weightlifting, Netball and Rugby 7s. He made mention that all provinces play an integral part of the country and as such stated that everyone is obliged to join the celebration of the games to exhibit provincial culture and pride thus enhancing National Unity. “Thus, the theme of the 8th games is unity and pride.” According to the accreditation report released by the games organizing committee, a total of 4,720 games participants have been accredited and they are expecting this number to increase to 6,000 when the remaining provinces complete registration later this month.

Warriors captain Tohu Harris has agreed to terms on a new one-year deal which will keep him in Auckland until at least the end of the 2025 season. Previously without a deal beyond the upcoming season, the new deal will see the 31-year-old bring up eight years with the club. Warriors head coach Andrew Webster said the news is a major boost ahead of the 2024 campaign. “I’m a huge fan of Tohu’s. He’s an unbelievable player and person who means so much to our club,” Webster told the Warriors' website. “Without him and his leadership on and off the field we certainly wouldn’t be where we are right now. “When I first talked to him before returning here I was so impressed by his passion and what he wants for the club. He proved that throughout the last season and now he has the opportunity to take the team further as we seek more improvement.” Source: NRL.Com

Six Papua New Guinean nationals have been detained following a joint operation by the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary and the Australian Federal Police in Daru and Port Moresby after being suspected of being in possession of illicit substances (Methamphetamine) recently. Five suspects were arrested in Daru last month and on was arrested in the capital last week. According to police, 3 of the six have already appeared in court following charges of being in possession of the illicit drug. Two from the three plead not guilty, with one pleading guilty receiving a sentence to of up to 8 years imprisonment. The other two will be appearing in court this week. Deputy Commissioner of Police Special Operations, Donald Yamasombi voiced gratitude to all law enforcement agencies involved for their hard work in apprehending the suspects.

Three officers in Manus Province have been arrested and suspended from active duty following charges of Murder. The Commander of New Guinea Island Region, Assistant Commissioner of Police Perou Ndranou, confirmed that investigations are ongoing and more arrests are expected in connection with the death. According to reports, the three police officers were arrested late last month and charged concerning the death of a man in Manus on April 17 this year. The deceased, George Mandrau was with two other friends, left Kapou village on their way to Lorangau town when they were approached by the officers. Witness statement suggest that the police arrested them upon suspicion that they were involved in an earlier robbery without proof, and transported the 3 men to the Lorengau Police Station where the police allegedly assaulted the trio with hard objects, after which they were detained in a cell leading to the death of one of them. “The deceased suffered serious bodily injuries while in the cell, so the detainees called the duty officers to take him to the hospital due to his condition. He was taken to Lorengau Hospital and hospitalized and later died.” ACP Ndranou stated that a public complaint was lodged against the police officers and a team was flown to Manus from Port Moresby. ACP Ndranou also added that officers who step out of line and use excessive force against unarmed people will be dealt with accordingly. He said common sense should be used instead of using the necessary force when arresting suspects. “The arrested suspects have nothing to do with us, if you think they committed a crime, are about to commit or are committing a crime, we must use reasonable force to take them to the police station and deal with them.” “Assaulting or insulting suspects only gets officers into trouble, and this is what happened to these three officers and others,” added Ndranou. Officers from the Forensic and Internal Investigation Unit of Port Moresby arrived in Manus and conducted an autopsy on May 09. He said an investigation had been launched into the April 17th death, which led to the arrest of three police officers last month. He further added that the two people accompanying the deceased were allegedly taken out of the police cell and forced to board a boat and travel to Madang and stay there for five years when the investigation into the death of Mr. Madaru Jr started. This particular case is also under investigation and those involved will be arrested and charged as well. “The two from Madang will be brought to assist in the investigation. I strongly condemned the actions of the police and assured the family of the deceased that the police would work diligently to ensure that justice is served. Otherwise, the police officers had been dealt with administratively.”