Goroka MP Aiye Tambua is set to appear before the Committal Court in Waigani next month, following his initial court appearance this morning. Tambua, who stepped down from his role as Agriculture and Livestock Minister, secured a K10, 000 bail at 11pm last night after being denied bail by police in Boroko. The court heard 26 charges against Tambua, including serious offenses like rape and abuse of trust, filed by his wife and two daughters who have fled to Australia for safety. The charges laid are one count of rape under section 347 (1) of the PNG Criminal Code; Two counts of sexual touching of a child under section 22 (1) (a) under the PNG Criminal Code, Crimes Against Children Act; Fourteen counts of sexual assault under section 349 (1) (a) of the PNG Criminal code; Two counts of abuse of trust, authority or dependency, under section 229 (e) (1) of the PNG Criminal code and; Six counts of compelled to touch, contravening section 249 (1) of the PNG Criminal code. Tambua's bail has been extended to April 4th, his next court appearance date. During this time, the court instructed Tambua to report any travel outside of Port Moresby to his electorate. This marks the third instance of a sitting MP in the current governing faction of the government facing criminal charges.  

The Member for Goroka, Aiye Tambua was refused bail yesterday by police over allegations of various sexual offences against his wife and two daughters, who fled to Australia for safety. Due to the gravity of the accusations, Tambua’s lawyer can seek a court bail. According to NCD Metropolitan Superintendent Silva Sika, Tambua was arrested by Boroko CID on rape, sexual assault and abuse of trust charges. Tambua, who resigned from his Agriculture and Livestock Ministry role amid the allegations, was detained at Boroko Police Station after voluntarily undergoing a record of interview. Superintendent Sika said the Member of Parliament's (MP’s) estranged wife and two daughters lodged their complaint at Boroko Police Station last year before fleeing to Australia. He added that attempts to arrest the MP were delayed around Christmas for multiple reasons and faced further setbacks due to a recent vote of no confidence motion in parliament. The Police Commissioner contacted the MP on Friday, prompting him to voluntarily appear at Police Headquarters for an interview before being charged and detained at Boroko Police Station. Detectives investigating the complaints subsequently laid these charges: One count of rape under section 347 (1) of the PNG Criminal Code; Two counts of sexual touching of a child under section 22 (1) (a) under the PNG Criminal Code, Crimes Against Children Act; Fourteen counts of sexual assault under section 349 (1) (a) of the PNG Criminal code; Two counts of abuse of trust, authority or dependency, under section 229 (e) (1) of the PNG Criminal code and; Six counts of compelled to touch, contravening section 249 (1) of the PNG Criminal code.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) has joined forces with several countries to strongly condemn Russia’s war on Ukraine, and its violation of Ukraine's independence during the ongoing conflict. Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko assured Ukraine of PNG’s moral support. “We will stand by and hopefully we see some positive results of mind changing.” “For us wherever we can help in the Pacific as we are talking to our members of the Pacific Islands Forum and Melanesian Spearhead Group.” “I’m here just to support you as Foreign Minister and give assurance of our government’s support, wherever we can assist.” The initiative for a unified stance from foreign heads in PNG was spearheaded by the French Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, Guillaume Lemoine, with support from the European Union Ambassador, Jacques Fradin, who praised the Marape-Rosso government for consistently backing Ukraine. Ambassador Fradin emphasized that not only was this war impacting Ukraine but also countries worldwide, including Papua New Guinea. He said the European Union, along with similar partners, remains dedicated to providing support during this critical period. Elise Varrey, First Secretary to the France Ambassador, echoed a statement by President Emmanuel Macron's statement which stressed that Ukrainians are fighting for freedom, European security, and the defense of international law. She also reiterated France Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne's stance against fatigue or indifference, emphasizing that Russia's attempts to discourage and intimidate are false, and Russia is not winning in Ukraine. In response, Ambassador Anne Marie Yastishock, from the United States, said that America has always been behind Ukraine, expressing their appreciation for PNG’s backing, stating that with PNG’s help, Ukraine will triumph over Russia. “This is a war of aggression, and the US will continue to stand with Ukraine and its people.” New Zealand's High Commissioner, Mr. Peter Zwart, thanked Papua New Guinea for its support to Ukraine, underscoring New Zealand's contributions to military training and humanitarian aid. Australian High Commissioner Mr. John Feakes echoed this gratitude, stressing the importance of international solidarity. Japanese Ambassador Mr. Nobuyuki Watanabe highlighted the chance to showcase partnership and unity, mentioning over 50 cooperation agreements signed with Ukraine and expressing strong support. British High Commissioner Ms. Ann Macro affirmed the UK's ongoing military assistance. South Korea’s Deputy Chief of Mission Mr. Chun Fait Park was also in attendance.

Cricket Papua New Guinea (Cricket PNG) is embarking on an ambitious journey to develop young talent and elevate the country's cricketing prowess on the international stage. With a focus on nurturing promising players from diverse backgrounds, Cricket PNG aims to build a strong foundation for the sport and compete at the highest levels of competition. The recent announcement of the Garamuts Men's Under 19 and Siales Women's Under 19 train-on squads marks a significant milestone in Cricket PNG's development pathway. These squads represent the next generation of cricketing talent in Papua New Guinea, and their selection process reflects Cricket PNG's commitment to identifying and grooming young players for success. One notable aspect of the selection process is the representation of players from various provinces across the country. While the majority of players come from the National Capital District (NCD), Cricket PNG recognizes the importance of diversifying its talent pool and including players from other regions. This not only promotes inclusivity but also ensures that cricket talent is cultivated and nurtured in all parts of Papua New Guinea. To achieve this goal, Cricket PNG has implemented several initiatives, including the introduction of the Malolo Junior Hardball Cricket Program. This program, launched last year, aims to strengthen junior cricket competitions by transitioning from soft cricket balls to hardballs, providing young players with a more authentic cricketing experience. The success of this program is evident in the increased participation rates, with 171 teams taking part in competitions across the country. The selection of the Garamuts and Siales train-on squads represents the culmination of Cricket PNG's efforts to identify and nurture talent at the grassroots level. These squads will undergo rigorous training programs, including strategy and tactical sessions, skill development training, and strength and conditioning sessions. Under the guidance of experienced coaches and selectors, players will have the opportunity to refine their skills and prepare for upcoming competitions. One such competition is the ICC East Asia Pacific (EAP) Division 2 Qualifier, where the Garamuts Men's Under 19 team will compete in Apia, Samoa, in July 2024. Similarly, the Siales Women's Under 19 team will travel to Bali, Indonesia, for the ICC EAP U19 World Cup Qualifier in May 2024. These tournaments present an opportunity for Papua New Guinea's young cricketers to showcase their talent on the international stage and gain valuable experience. Cricket PNG's commitment to developing young talent extends beyond the playing field. The organization recognizes the importance of providing players with opportunities for personal and professional growth, instilling values such as discipline, teamwork, and resilience. Through cricket, Cricket PNG aims to empower young people and create pathways for success both on and off the field. As the Garamuts and Siales train-on squads embark on their journey, Cricket PNG remains optimistic about the future of cricket in Papua New Guinea. With a strong emphasis on grassroots development, inclusivity, and excellence, Cricket PNG is paving the way for the next generation of cricketing stars to shine brightly on the global stage.

Cricket Papua New Guinea (Cricket PNG) confirmed its intensive five-week training schedule for its Garamuts Men's Under 19 and Siales Women's Under 19 train-on squads. The schedule, which spans from February to March 2024, marks the second phase of the selection process and focuses on preparing the players for upcoming competitions. The first week consisted of Testing and Skill Development, and kicked off on Monday, February 19, 2024, with testing sessions for both groups, where players underwent fitness assessments and skill evaluations to gauge their strengths and areas for improvement. The week also included skill and strength training sessions led by experienced coaches, aimed at enhancing the players' performance on the field. The second week, which ends this Sunday March 3rd, 2024, is focusing on Competition Preparation, with the Garamuts Men's squad engaging in two 50-over matches and the Siales Women's squad participating in their first T20 practice match. Training sessions will look at speed, power, and strength, crucial components for success in competitive cricket. As the squads enters their third week of training, which kicks off on Monday March 4th, 2024, attention will be turned to fine-tuning skills and tactics for both groups to continue to hone their batting, bowling, and fielding techniques, with an emphasis on game scenarios and situational awareness. The intensity of training will increase as the players gear up for upcoming matches. Week 4, which starts Monday March 11th, will see the teams engage in Match Simulations and Recovery sessions to maintain peak performance levels. The Garamuts Men's squad is expected to complete their fourth 50-over match by then, while the Siales Women's squad will play their third T20 practice match. Cricket PNG said the recovery and mobility exercises are to help players recuperate from the physical demands of training and matches. March 18th will see both teams’ final week of training where focus will shift to final preparations for upcoming matches in which the Garamuts Men's squad is set to participate in two additional 50-over matches, while the Siales Women's squad will continue skill development sessions. Coaches and selectors will closely observe player performances, preparing to finalize the squads for upcoming competitions. Throughout this five-week training schedule, players should demonstrate dedication, discipline, and determination, reflecting Cricket PNG's commitment to nurturing young talent and promoting excellence in cricket. As the Garamuts and Siales squads gear up for competition, all eyes are on Papua New Guinea's rising cricket stars, poised to make their mark on the international stage.  

23-year old Chelsea Paspalau is the first student from the University of Natural Resources and Environment (UNRE) to be selected to be a part of the Kokoda Track Foundation (KTF) Archer Leaders cohort for 2024, a milestone achievement for herself and the institution she represents. Over the years, the majority of students selected for the leadership program, come either from the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) and the PNG University of Technology (PNG UoT). Young Chelsea, who is a final year Bachelor of Aqua Culture major student, had come across the program on LinkedIn and had just applied for the sake of applying, never imagined that she would get accepted. “It’s been exciting and I’m just blessed and grateful to be here and to be one of the selected awardees of the program.” “When I got here and everyone started introducing, I had realized that I was the only student from UNRE so I was embarrassed and I didn’t think that I would make it past the interview stage,” she said. She added that being the first from UNRE, upon her return to the school, she will be encouraging other students as well to apply for the program. “I hope that I can be an inspiration to other students. If you’re someone who is applying for scholarships and have gotten no feedback, keep applying because you never know when there will be an open door for you.” The Chief Operating Officer, Mike Nelson stated that he was very proud of the leaders of the 2024 cohort as there were a lot of potential candidates and congratulated them for standing out. He mentioned that he was excited about the first archer leader coming from the UNRE and said that they have always pushed for a diversity of candidates from universities and colleges around the country and therefore, encourages other students across the nation to also apply for the KTF Archer Leadership Program. Meanwhile, the 2024 KTF Archer Leadership cohort consists of a total of 12 students – six from UPNG, five from PNG UoT and one from UNRE.

Transparency International Papua New Guinea (TIPNG) has raised alarm over recent parliamentary proceedings, emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic principles to maintain public trust and foster national development. Peter Aitsi, TIPNG Board Chair, expressed deep concerns regarding the reported refusal to entertain a motion of no confidence against the prime minister, followed by the adjournment of Parliament until May 2024. Aitsi stressed that such actions undermine democratic rights, perpetuate impunity, and weaken governmental checks and balances. According to parliamentary procedures outlined in the Constitution and Standing Orders, motions of no confidence play a crucial role in holding the Executive accountable, and any deviation from these established processes threatens the integrity of the democratic system. Meanwhile, the PNG’s Opposition said they will respect parliamentary processes and await the May sitting of Parliament to challenge Prime Minister James Marape's leadership. They reiterated their commitment to constitutional provisions and the will of the people. Contrary to allegations, the Opposition reaffirmed the integrity of the motion of no confidence and vowed to pursue it through legitimate channels. Despite being outnumbered in Parliament, the Opposition said they draw strength from the support of the people, who are grappling with various hardships, pledging continued advocacy to hold the government accountable for its actions.

Bank South Pacific Financial Group Limited (BSP) has continued its support for the Hiri Moale Festival with a K100, 000 donation made to the organizers of Port Moresby’s premier cultural event. The cheque was presented to the organizing committee at the Ravalian Haus by BSP Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Mark Robinson on Friday 1st March, 2024. The Hiri Moale Festival has its roots in the traditional trade voyages that took place between the Motuan people of the Central Province and the people of the Gulf Province. Mr. Robinson stated that BSP has had a long tradition of supporting cultural activities not only in Papua New Guinea, but throughout the wider pacific community. “Festivals such as Hiri Moale are an important way to bring people together and to promote tourism. The festival provides an excellent platform for people to not only share their culture and traditions, but also pass them down to the next generation.” “We congratulate the organizers on reaching this important milestone and wish them all the very best with this year’s event.” Receiving the cheque on behalf of the event organizing committee was Mrs. Molly O’Rourke accompanied by 2023 Hiri Hanenamo, Miss Kimjosh Damuri. Meanwhile, the festival is a celebration of Motuan culture and features a range of activities, including traditional dances, canoe races, and handicraft displays. This year will mark a milestone for the festival, fifty years on from the inaugural event under the leadership of Janetta Douglas, MBE. Janetta was one of the earliest promoters of PNG as a tourism destination and worked tirelessly to preserve the cultural heritage of its people.

PNG’s Law Society President, Hubert Namani has urged two new judges – Justices Susan Pardon-Sully and Derek Wood - on PNG’s Judiciary bench to uphold the rule of law amid significant challenges in the nation, including tribal conflicts, public disorder, and corruption. He made the call when congratulating them on their three-year term appointment and welcoming them into the bench, at a ceremonial sitting for judges at the National and Supreme Court in Waigani led by Chief Justice Sir Salika Gibs, attended by Justice Minister and Attorney-General, Pila Niningi and Solicitor-General Tauvasa Tanuvasa, the legal fraternity and heads of foreign diplomats. “We are confronted with severe threats to the rule of law – from tribal conflicts instigating tragic loss of lives to public disorder causing significant economic hardship, and high levels of corruption that are affecting societies and the State.” “In the face of these trying circumstances, it is imperative that justice be administered diligently and impartially by the judiciary, without any hint of bias or undue influence.” “Both the Bench and the Bar have a solemn duty to protect the Rule of Law for our nation.” “It is incumbent upon us all to uphold the principles of justice, fairness, and integrity in every action we take within the legal system.” Namani commended Justice Purdon-Sully's extensive experience, particularly her involvement in the Judicial Conduct Committee and the Judicial Wellbeing Committee of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, expressing anticipation for her contributions to PNG's judiciary. He also expressed confidence in Justice Wood's capabilities, citing his familiarity with PNG's legal landscape. “As we welcome the new judges to their solemn duty, let us reaffirm our collective commitment to the principles of justice, fairness, and integrity (and) may they discharge their responsibilities with wisdom, courage, and unwavering dedication to the cause of justice, serving independently and fearlessly for the betterment of our society.” “Let us stand united in our pursuit of a legal system, where righteousness prevails, and the rule of law reigns supreme.” Both judges expressed their commitment to this call and similar sentiments made by the Chief Justice and the Justice Minister. In the same special judges sitting, the Law Society president also fare welled Justice Jeffrey Sheppard who will formally retire from the bench later this month. “To Justice Sheppard, who is now leaving the bench after years of dedicated service to our state from both the bar and the bench, on behalf of all the lawyers, I express our deepest gratitude for your service and contribution since joining the Public Solicitors Office in 1983. We appreciate you for your close to 41 years of service in law, in our State.” “Thank you for mentoring and giving opportunities to our national lawyers, serving our public and businesses, and contributing to the Judiciary, and importantly to nation-building in this country of which you have been recognized and knighted by King Charles III as a Commander of the British Empire.” “We wish you well and may God Bless you into the future, we wish you a fulfilling and peaceful retirement from the bench.”

The Kokoda Track Foundation (KTF) has signaled the beginning of the 2024 Archer Leadership Development Program with its annual Archer Leaders cocktail event held this week in Port Moresby to welcome 12 young leaders selected to undergo the leadership program. KTF is an Australian Non-Government Organization (NGO) focused on the four pillars of education, health, equality and leadership that has helped forged Papua New Guinea’s next generation leaders through its Archer Leadership Development Program. At the event, the exceptional 2023 cohort of Archer Leaders joined the 94-strong alumni with the 12 new Archer Leaders for 2024, who were chosen out of a record-breaking 300 applicants. KTF Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr. Genevieve Nelson stated that she was so proud of all of their Archer Leaders. “It has been an extremely difficult yet inspiring few days, interviewing this year’s shortlist." "We heard stories of achievement, of overcoming extreme challenges, and of dedication to a better future for PNG - every candidate we interviewed was inspirational in their own way." "We can’t wait to work with this year’s Archer cohort.” These 12 applicants are from a range of academic backgrounds and were chosen as the 2024 Archer Leaders:   - Taine Kassman (Law - UPNG) - Vilousa Hahembe (Economics - UPNG) - Nabieu Lansana (Law - UPNG - Isabelle Vilau (Masters in Economics - UPNG) - Denphil-Hunt Mitir (Law - UPNG) - Zeruiah Grammon (Law - UPNG) - Darrel Yockopua (Engineering Mineral Processing - Unitech) - Solange Dawana (Mechanical Engineering - Unitech) - Chelsea Paspalau (Fisheries & Marine Science, PNGUNRE) - Wallace Parimahi (Mining Engineering - Unitech) - Zaraleena Adamson (Mechanical Engineering - Unitech) - McBride Matai (Civil Engineering - Unitech) Mr. Raymond Billy, a Bachelor of Science student at the University of PNG and a 2023 Archer Leader, stated that his experience had been a rollercoaster of events as the KTF program had really brought him out of his comfort zone. “They paid attention to the details of my career interests and allowed me to be exposed to people specific to those areas I was interested in." "I was so overwhelmed with the wealth of knowledge on adaptive leadership and how I can be the smallest voice in the room, but be the most effective one. “ Meanwhile, the Archer Leadership Development Program is an annual scholarship program for final-year tertiary students in PNG to participate in a transformational leadership journey aimed at developing the confidence, networks, skills, resources and support systems that young leaders need to exercise exceptional leadership. Special guests at the 2024 Archer Leaders cocktail event was H.E John Feakes the Australian High Commissioner to PNG, Dr. Genevieve Nelson, and representatives from KTF’s long-time supporters of the Archer Leadership Program, and Kina Bank CEO Roppe Uyassi. Also present was Newmont Group Head of Social Performance, Rebecca Darling, Newmont Head of Communities and Social Performance, Matt King and Newmont Manager of Strategic Engagement, Tim Bryson.

Vibes online music store is a digital platform that will allow Papua New Guinean artists to upload their music and their fans can pay to download their favorite local songs. Developer Mr. Gideon Niakra stated that this online platform will be launched tonight at the Cosmopolitan’s Crystal Bar & Lounge and will be the first ever online store made purposely to promote PNG music to the world. Artists and music producers in Papua New Guinea (PNG) have always struggled from the limited amount of recognition and support that they get for the music that they produce, hence the development of this online store, which will be embedded with its own music player application. Niakra stated that this platform is not an online streaming platform but is basically an online digital music store and app. “You pay for what you want to download to your device so that you can listen to your favorite local songs.” Music uploaded to this platform will be individually encrypted with the aim to protect consumer’s rights, artist rights and will hopefully stop illegal distribution and piracy in the country. “We have developed our own encryption technology, so when artists upload a song on the platform, that file is encrypted and will be physically locked to your device when you make a purchase and download that particular song so you will not be able to share the song with others.” He said that the platform will initially charge listeners K3 per song, with K1 going to the platform and K2 to the artist. “So, if an artist gets 50 downloads that’s K100, if they get 1, 000 downloads, that’s K2, 000 and so on, so that incentive encourages them to make more great songs that people will enjoy listening to.” Gideon has spoken to a lot of different artists that are willing to come on board and be a part of the platform with hopes to be one of PNG’s first ever music millionaire achieved through the vibes online music store platform. “The reason behind this platform is for this generation and the next generations down the line, twenty-thirty years from now and hope that everyone will be able to get on the platform and make money. “Whether they make money as a passive income for themselves or become a full-time recording artist, at least I have done my part to provide them with options, in creating an alternative avenue for them because if you’re passionate about making music, then make the music and get paid for it.” Furthermore, he hopes that once artists start seeing that they are earning real money from this platform, they will be encouraged to make more music and get really competitive with each other. “So we’re just going to see hit after hit being released and the standard of PNG music will be raised to such a level never seen before in this country and we hope that it’s going to be maintained and stays like that.” He stated that he felt this was his duty and this project had been ten years in the making and he is grateful that he will be doing the launch and has appreciated the support he has been getting from the sponsors. “I’m so overwhelmed at the support that I’m getting. I just want to say big thanks and much love to Post Courier for coming in as a major sponsor for the event and PNG FM as well. You guys are amazing.” Meanwhile, he stated that you can look forward to a great time at the launch because a lot of artists will be there. Tickets are on sale at K50 at available outlets stated on the flyer. “Come by and take a picture with your favorite artists and enjoy the music as DJ Nova will also be performing on the night.”

PNG's Opposition has chosen to pursue parliamentary procedures over legal action in their bid to challenge Prime Minister James Marape's leadership. In a press conference held in Port Moresby this week, they declared their decision not to contest the actions of the Private Business Committee, opting instead to await the May sitting of Parliament to address the notice of motion of no confidence filed on February 20. "Contrary to the noise from Mr. Marape and his loyalists, we are in no rush to remove him from office outside of prescribed Parliamentary processes," stated the Opposition jointly. They reiterated their faith in the integrity of the notice of motion filed on February 20, dismissing Marape's allegations of forged signatures. The Opposition emphasized their compliance with all necessary requirements for a motion of no confidence and expressed anticipation for the Private Business Committee's actions on May 30. The Opposition further underscored the significance of the vote of no confidence as a constitutional provision enabling direct expression of dissatisfaction in the country's leadership. Despite challenges from the government, they vowed to exercise the will of the people to effect change. "We are more than happy to maintain our stance against this Prime Minister and Government for the next three months," asserted the Opposition, highlighting their commitment to advocating for the people of Papua New Guinea. While acknowledging their numerical disadvantage in Parliament, the Opposition drew strength from the support of the populace, emphasizing their dedication to improving the nation through policy advocacy and engagement with the people. As they prepare for the upcoming parliamentary session, the Opposition remains steadfast in their pursuit of change, citing five years of hardship under Marape's leadership as justification for their stance. They reaffirmed their commitment to the nation and its people, pledging to continue their advocacy efforts in the months ahead.