The Prime Minister (PM) and Treasurer James Marape has issued a directive to the Department of Labor and Employment, emphasizing the urgent need to address the longstanding minimum wage issue for workers in the country. The directive, according to a statement, comes in the wake of a meeting between PM Marape and Labor and Employment Minister Kessy Sawang, where discussions revolved around various challenges faced by the department. “The minimum wage issue has been outstanding since 2014,” Marape stated. “I have instructed Minister Sawang that the minimum wage of K3.50 per hour should be reviewed to align with the escalating cost of living and changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI)." “A comprehensive report will be presented to me at the earliest opportunity, allowing us to determine a fair rate that considers the plight of our low-wage earners while ensuring the continued viability of our companies, particularly small businesses." “We are committed to striking a fair balance between the welfare of employees and the sustainability of businesses." Marape said this initiative reflects Pangu Pati’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that everyone in the country can navigate these challenging economic times successfully.

The 2017 IPATAS CUP rugby League Golden Pass winners, the Tokarara Mix Dogs (TMD), drew in the match against the Boroko Bulldogs in the Hohola Rugby League off- season competition yesterday with the skipper saying that there is sill room for improvement. The A- Grade division match on Saturday in Port Moresby city was intense with both teams showing strong form in both attack and defence. The result of the intensity shown by the two teams led to the teams ending up in a draw nil all. TMD Captain Mr. Conroy Harold stressed his disappointment with the mistakes during the game but was pleased that the match ended in a draw despite their performance. “We lacked communication which led to silly mistakes that could’ve cost us the game, we met a team that was a match in defence and attack,” said the Captain. “We had a poor start in the first half and we tried to recover during the second half, but we still struggled with thin opportunities.” Nevertheless, the Captain is pleased that TMD is placed in pool-B which comprises of all the teams outside the Hohola and Tokarara suburbs and with that in mind, the TMD boys will be heading back to training as they polish up and improve their attacking and defence.

Over the past two weeks, health workers at the Situm Health Center in the Morobe province have been attending to a large number of influenza cases. A health worker at the health center, who wishes to remain anonymous, stated that some of these cases were laced with diseases such as malaria, pneumonia and other common diseases. “There is a flu virus going around, if someone in the family gets it, everybody will get it.” “Some come with malaria, so we run tests and treat accordingly. If tests show its malaria, we treat them for malaria.” The health worker also said that home remedies like steaming with lemon grass, lemon, ginger and other herbs and drinking a lot of warm water with lemon will help to kill the virus in patients. “Eat lots of fruits like pawpaw, pineapples, and oranges as well as greens cooked with lots of ginger, garlic and onions to help fight off the flu.” Additionally, keeping away from the rest of the people can also help to reduce the spread of the virus because influenza is often spread through sprayed droplets when one sneezes or coughs. “If you don’t help yourself you’ll have a hard time, so make sure to cut down on sugary, salty, oily and greasy food.” Patients who contracted the virus one to two weeks ago have already recovered whereas patients who have just caught it are doing their best in fighting it off. “Almost everyone in the village already has the flu. Those who were diagnosed earliest with the flu are fully recovered. It will mostly last from three to four days, if you drink water and nourish your body to fight it off.” Meanwhile, due to the lack of certain medicine supplies and IV Fluids at the health center, all major cases like pregnant mothers giving birth, are referred to the Angau Memorial Hospital in the city of Lae. “We don’t have IV fluids to treat our pregnant mothers, the supplies that we had, we have already used it up. We are waiting for new supplies.” Apart from that the health center has running water and the health staff use solar lights to treat patients at nights.

The Hohola off Season round of matches is currently underway in the city of Port Moresby with matches held each week at the famous Ipi Park. The Hohola Rugby League (HRL) Coordinator, Mr. Omega Nari stressed that the HRL Committee is committed to stay focused on the games to keep the youths busy, especially following the recent unrest in the capital city. “It’s important we keep our youths occupied during this time, this is the time we can actually contribute to bringing back normalcy to our community,” said the Coordinator. Meanwhile, Round 7 clashes in the A-grade and B-grade is getting more intense as teams find their rhythm and putting up strong challenges after studying their opponents game plays in previous matches. But Mr. Nari admitted that players are becoming more aggressive and absent minded of rugby league rules as the matches progressed, which he said was unacceptable and fines are being used accordingly as penalty for the violations during weekend games. “We maintain these relationships with players to minimize tense or violence situations during games and we charge players who violate the rules of rugby.” Mr. Nari also said that it would be nice to have some sponsors on board to support the competition. “We ask private and government establishments who seek to sponsor our finals to please reach out and we can work together for our youths all around Port Moresby.” The Hohola off Season hosts 7 games on the weekends and 12 games on weekdays.

Police pay has been corrected in Department of Finance systems, with no unwarranted deductions to occur in pay two of 2024. The Acting Police Commissioner has engaged with the Department of Finance to ensure that police pay is returned to normal from pay two of 2024, and reimbursements are made to all police personnel in pay three of 2024. Acting Police Commissioner, Donald Yamasombi in a statement said that the mistake was made by the overall government finance system and should never have occurred, so it is being rectified by RPNGC management. However, technical limitations in the Finance Department pay system mean that the reimbursement cannot take place until pay three. Yamasombi made the point that under the Marape-Rosso Government, police salaries are high than before and even outstanding allowances from a decade ago have now been paid. “Firstly, I can confirm that the deductions made in error last week, that average K63 per police member depending on individual circumstances, will be paid in pay three,” Mr Yamasombi said. “This mistake should not have happened, but when we put it into perspective this Government does the right thing by police through increasing pay and benefits, and even back-paying millions of Kina to personnel that they were owed.” “Making sure police are properly paid is a priority for the Commissioner, and this included last year paying outstanding allowances from previous years.” “K60 million was allocated to pay outstanding allowances that police were denied from 2010 to 2015.” “This money paid the outstanding allowances for 4, 277 police officers, from Constable to Sergeant that had been denied to them more than a decade ago.” “Depending on the number of dependents police officers had at that time, this was a payment averaging K6, 000 and as high as K8, 000 for each policeman and policewoman.” “Our rank and file can rest assured that the Police Executive will always back them up and they will not be cut short under our leadership and this government.” Meanwhile he added that police are amongst the highest paid public servants in the government, and this is well deserved considering the risks and dangers police face on a daily basis. “Police have high demand and risky jobs, and the men and women who wear our uniform must and are being paid properly, and it is the executive’s view, under Commissioner Manning, that this will continue for their service.” “The salary structure for RPNGCX personnel is generous and is deserved by our rank and file with the Government being proactive to ensure pay rates are reviewed each year.”

Hon. Richard Masere, Minister for Constitutional Matters & Office and Member for Popondetta Open has expressed his gratitude for the honour of serving as a minister of the state of this nation. “On behalf of my family and my people of Popondetta Open, I would like to express my gratitude to Prime Minister, Hon. James Marape, for recognizing the people of Popondetta Open. “ “My appointment as Minister for Key Constitutional Matters and Offices, responsible for National Statistics Office, Electoral Commission, NID, Ombudsman Commission and Independent Commission Against Corruption.” He explained in a statement that this was a huge responsibility and thanked the Prime Minister for entrusting him with this responsibility. “Our appointment will further strengthen the commitment of Prime Minister to ensure there is equal provincial and regional representation in the National Executive Council.” “I look forward to assisting the Prime Minister and the National Government to serve our people with diligence and integrity and ensure the prosperity and overall well-being of our country is progressed.” Furthermore, he extended his sincere appreciation to the Prime Minister and the Pangu-led Government for this important decision and looks forward to a future of shared prosperity and advancement for all.

The Southern Highlands Provincial (SHP) Government has taken a significant stride in fostering enhanced air connectivity within the region. Today, it proudly announces that advancement of K2 million to PNG Air, a move to subsidize passenger air travel to and from Mendi. This strategic initiative is underpinned by a multifaceted vision aimed at driving socio-economic growth within the Southern Highlands Province. The key objectives include promoting efficient and affordable connectivity for SHP residents and businesses with the rest of Papua New Guinea, facilitating market access for local commodities, and positioning SHP as an attractive travel destination. Chief Executive Officer for PNG Air, Brian Fraser, in a statement said that the collaboration with the SHP Government signifies a commitment to regional development and underscores the transformative power pf strategic partnerships. “We are honoured to play a role in advancing socio-economic growth in the Southern Highlands Province.” Southern Highlands Governor, William Powi was grateful that his people would not be denied vital air services reaching Mendi and Moro. “Furthermore, there will be a subsequent press conference with relevant government authorities to advice on the next steps that will allow the possibility of air travel in the Southern Highlands Province.” This collaboration between the SHP Government and PNG Air reflects a robust public-private partnership and is a great initiative by Hon. William Powi. “The collaboration leverages PNG Air’s air transport network, supported by modern ATR aircraft, to deliver tangible benefits to the people of SHP.” The successful commencement of these subsidized air travel services hinges on essential infrastructure works at the Mendi airport, a responsibility entrusted to the National Airports Corporation. Additionally, the Civil Aviation Authority’s issuance of Part 139 certification for the Mendi airport is a critical step towards realizing this transformative initiative. “As we anticipate the positive outcomes of this collaboration, the SHP Government expresses gratitude for the continued support from PNG Air and all the stakeholders involved.” “This endeavour not only aligns with regional development goals but also underscores the commitment to providing efficient and accessible air travel options that will catalyse growth and development in the Southern Highlands Province.” Further updates on the progress of this initiative will be communicated in due course.

BSP Financial Group Limited’s People and Culture Team recently donated medical items with an estimated value of K30, 000 to the Sir Buri Kidu Heart Institute at the Port Moresby General Hospital on Thursday 18th January 2024. These items include Wheelchairs, Digital Weighing Scales, Height Measuring Tapes, USB Blood Glucose Meter & Lancing Device, Led Otoscopes, stethoscopes, Digital Body Thermometers and Blood Pressure Monitors. Head of BSP Employee Relation Kila Nouairi with the Head of OSB Support, Ray Baloiloi and the BSP People and Culture team made the presentation to Cardiologist and Director of the Sir Buri Kidu Heart Institute, Professor, Sir Isi Kevau and his team. In a statement, Sir Isi Kevau expressed his gratitude for the BSP’s support saying that the equipment donated were very much needed instruments that doctors and nurses require in any hospital. “This institute is privileged to have BSP delivering such equipment that will help our staff perform our duties diligently.” “We receive hundreds of patients daily and with these new items, it will very much assist our doctors in providing effective medical treatment to our patients,” said Sir Isi Kevau. Baloiloi reiterated that BSP is always pleased to mobilise support and provide assistance to promote life-saving practices through investing in health care prospects. “We are very keen to be an active player in all aspects of our community development, and we strongly support health, education, environment, sports and social wellbeing in the communities we operate in, ensuring appropriate services are provided to improve overall livelihood of the communities.” Meanwhile this donation is part of the bank’s 2023 annual community project initiative delivered by the BSP People & Culture team. “BSP understands that we have the opportunity to make a difference where it matters most and with this donation, we believe it will go a long way in helping our people in our communities, province and nation.”

Head Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea, Reverend Dr. Jack Urame, has expressed concern over recent government initiatives that he believes may compromise the freedom of the people. In a statement addressing the media freedom laws proposed by the government, Dr. Urame emphasized that the primary role of the government is to protect its citizens rather than institute laws that suppress and restrict them, turning them into virtual prisoners within their own country. Referring to the constitution as the foundational document that outlines the principles of the nation, Dr. Urame highlighted the importance of decisions made by the government and laws passed by the parliament being in alignment with the well-being of the people. Celebrating the nation's nearly 50-year history, he underscored the need for every governmental action to be viewed through the lens of the citizens it serves. Dr. Urame asserted that the rights and freedoms of the people, rooted in democratic principles, are crucial for maintaining societal cohesion. He warned against a potential disintegration of society if these guiding principles are neglected. Expressing concern about the possibility of dictatorial rule, he emphasized that the people of Papua New Guinea have a long history of living in a liberated society, enjoying the values of community, family, and personal freedom. In opposition to any legislation or government decision that may infringe upon the freedom of the people, Dr. Urame called for a rejection of such measures. He stressed that Papua New Guinea is not akin to countries in the Middle East or other regions with aggressive laws treating citizens as prisoners. The Head Bishop strongly advocated for the preservation of the people's dignity, rights, and freedom, speaking on behalf of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea. Dr. Jack Urame unequivocally rejected any government decision or law that would challenge the fundamental rights and freedoms of the people, signifying the Church's commitment to safeguarding the principles upon which the nation was built.

A black flight out of Bulolo in the Morobe Province, carrying methamphetamine, was intercepted by the Australian Federal Police after it landed in rural Queensland to re-fuel. A 41-year-old Brisbane woman has now been charged for her alleged involvement in facilitating this importation of drugs into Australia, after she appeared before the Brisbane Court Magistrate yesterday. Her arrest follows on from the arrest of six men in Australia and eight people in PNG last March who are alleged to be members of a transnational organised crime syndicate. The woman who is the owner and director of a logistics company in Papua New Guinea, is alleged to have actively facilitated the drug importation including allegedly storing the methamphetamine prior to the importation, buying bags for its transportation, and paying for the fuel and runway in Bulolo used for the black flight. Police executed a search warrant on the woman’s Brisbane property in March 2023 after the arrests. Enquiries revealed the methamphetamine had been stored in a commercial premises operated by the woman in PNG prior to the flight. AFP Commander Investigations Eastern Command Kate Ferry said the arrest was a testament to the diligent and relentless work of the AFP and its partners. “Criminals will go to great, and often dangerous, lengths to get drugs into Australia, and this matter is an example of that." "This investigation is also an example of how the AFP will continue to pursue organised crime groups no matter what state or country they operate in, or how long it takes,” Commander Ferry said. “Methamphetamine is an insidious drug that has ripple effects on the user, their loved ones and the wider community." " This importation had an estimated street value of more than $15 million (K40 million).” Investigations into how the drugs entered PNG remain ongoing. The AFP-led joint investigation, codenamed Operation Gepard, involved members from NSW Police Force, Queensland Police Services, the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, and the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary.

In response to the series of deaths resulting from last Thursday's protest, Assistant Commissioner Peter Guinness of the Northern Command is delivering a strong warning to residents and opportunists contemplating further demonstrations. Guinness revealed that the police have received intelligence about a planned protest by relatives of those who lost their lives during Thursday's incident. He emphasized that the police will not tolerate any form of protest and strongly discouraged individuals from participating in such activities. To maintain order and prevent potential unrest, all police personnel have been strategically stationed in key locations in and around the city, including major bus stops at Eriku, top town, and main market areas. Guinness stressed the importance of discouraging large crowds from congregating at any one location and urged people to return home by 3 pm. The ACP for Northern Command also appealed to residents, asking them to discourage community members, including children, from participating in any form of protest or spreading rumours within the community. Meanwhile, the Northern commander disclosed that two police officers in Morobe province were among the casualties from last Thursday's incident. In Goroka, three men were shot dead, and an additional 23 looters were shot and subsequently taken to Goroka General Hospital for treatment. Reports from Madang indicate one death at Walium station following the Thursday looting. According to the police, the deceased was part of a group attempting to hold up Yellow Mart when he was shot. To address potential threats from deceased relatives, Lae's Mobile Squad 13 is maintaining a police presence at Walium station while also providing security measures to minimize potential risks. The situation remains tense as authorities work to prevent further escalation. The Assistant Commissioner's stern warning underscores the gravity of the circumstances and the imperative for residents to prioritize peace and order in their communities.

Assistant Commissioner of Northern Commander, Peter Guinness, issues a stern warning to individuals who utilize their phones or electronic devices to engage in online communication, cautioning them about the potential legal consequences.  Whether intentional or unintentional, posting content on Facebook or WhatsApp that pertains to another person may result in arrest and charges under the cybercrime act, according to Guinness. He emphasizes the gravity of the situation, highlighting the substantial penalties associated with uploading or posting content against another individual. Guinness urges the public to exercise caution in their online interactions and refrain from actions that may lead to legal repercussions. Furthermore, Guinness appeals to communication companies to play a proactive role in educating their customers about cybercrime laws at the time of phone purchases. He underscores the importance of raising awareness among users to prevent inadvertent violations of the law. The Assistant Commissioner's remarks follow a recent incident in which a 26-year-old female from Menyamya District in Morobe was apprehended and charged by Lae Police for using offensive language on Facebook. The individual, Gerina Gerson Yawa, claimed ignorance about cybercrime laws and expressed disbelief that her social media post could result in arrest. Guinness emphasizes that this arrest serves as a clear example to individuals who contemplate posting content on social media platforms concerning another person. The incident underscores the need for public awareness and adherence to cybercrime laws to maintain a responsible and legal online environment.