Morobe Governor Luther Wenge urgently appeal to Prime Minister James Marape to convene a parliamentary session and repeal the recently enacted income tax law. Wenge attributes the recent demonstrations and protests in Port Moresby to the contentious law being implemented by the Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) in 2024. He emphasizes the unprecedented resistance against an unjust and burdensome law, urging the Prime Minister to address the matter promptly by calling for parliamentary action. Wenge criticizes the IRC for their role in implementing the law, emphasizing the need for accountability. He calls upon the Prime Minister and the Speaker of Parliament to promptly convene a parliamentary session to reconsider and amend the law, ensuring it aligns with the interests of the nation. Wenge insists that the IRC cease the illegitimate imposition of taxes, underlining the detrimental impact on both businesses and citizens. While advocating for the cessation of the strikes, Wenge does not condone illegal activities such as property destruction. He urges citizens to channel their concerns through elected leaders like himself and other representatives, emphasizing the importance of addressing the issue through proper channels. Governor Wenge sheds light on the income tax rates outlined in the 2024 Budget Amendment Bill of 2023, specifying different tax brackets. He contends that the ongoing situation is a consequence of the law and refutes claims of error or miscalculation by the IRC, asserting that it complies with existing legislation. Wenge highlights the economic challenges facing the country, such as the devaluation of the kina, and the subsequent impact on businesses, which are compelled to raise prices due to increased import costs. He points out that this, in turn, adversely affects the salaries of public servants and those in the private sector, especially when coupled with existing loans. In conclusion, Governor Luther Wenge expresses deep concern over the current situation, foreseeing significant hardships for the people of Papua New Guinea. He underscores the urgent need for parliamentary intervention to rectify the law and alleviate the burdens imposed on the citizens.

Despite the chaos happening in the city, ambulances supported a significant emergency situation occurring in Port Moresby related to civil unrest. This incident severely impacted normal ambulance operations and may have resulted in delays responding to incidents. "Be aware that their priority is always to provide care to Papua New Guineans who require life-saving assistance." In a statement, St John Ambulance advised the ambulance service are responding to life threatening emergency situations as quickly as possible, and doing all possible to maintain the safety and security of St John People at the same time. "Please call 111 for St John Ambulance only if you have a medical emergency." Spokesperson for St John Ambulance Lulu Mark assured the public that the ambulance service is responding to life-threatening emergencies but there may be delays due to evolving security situation. "We will update this message when demand returns to normal levels."

While providing updates of the rapid movement of additional police personnel into the National Capital District, Police Commissioner David Manning said he will never allow such a lapse in leadership at local command that enabled yesterday’s (10th January 2024) chaos to erupt. The Commissioner has now issued very strict orders following briefings with DCP Philip Mitna, ACP Anthony Wagambie and other senior personnel, to restore normalcy in the shortest possible time, following the restoring of effective Command and Control in NCD/Central Command. “I will not defend or make excuses for the actions of members of the RPNGC, under their local command, that left our streets vulnerable.” “Whilst I appreciate the concerns of the deductions that triggered the actions today, the NCD/Central Command did not demonstrate leadership in ensuring a police presence was still in place around the city.” “I condemn the reaction on what is essentially an industrial issue as proper process was not followed as should have been taken up by the command.” “Decisive action is being taken to hold operational commanders responsible for discipline in their command.” “We will identify who dropped the ball and was responsible for his mass escalating.” The Police Commissioner said the deployment of supporting police personnel, alongside the PNGDF, is giving the security forces the upper hand in regaining the control in all areas. “I am in regular contact with the Chief or the Defence Force in co-ordinating PNGDF deploying under callout and this is working effectively.” “I can provide assurance to the community and businesses that rogue elements in the streets are being brought under control.” “There is a time and place for dealing with what could have been done better and this process begins as soon as we feel the situation has been resolved.”

NCD/Central Command is being tasked with bringing the situation in Port Moresby under control, to stop looting and to move crowds off the streets, as an immediate priority. This were the directives from the Commissioner of Police David Manning, in the aftermath of the widespread chaos that went down in the Nation’s Capital, following demonstrations by the country’s disciplinary forces in the Nation’s Capital in regards to an alleged increase in their income tax. “Police have being working throughout Wednesday afternoon (10th January 2024), dispersing crowds that are moving around with pack mentality." " People who do not comply with police direction will be detained and locked up for processing.” Commissioner Manning said it is imperative that people in Port Moresby return to their homes so security forces can go about their work and for families to remain within their premises, as well as keep a close watch of their family and especially the younger family members. “If there are flare-ups and shots fired, we do not want to see young people at risk.” He said additional police contingents will be moved into the city form regional areas. “These police will provide backup for security personnel that have been on duty for extended periods and will increase force strength if tensions increase.” Manning also made it known that Cabinet has now approved a call-out of PNGDF personnel, who will be working alongside the Police to restore some level of normalcy in the city. He also reiterated his call to the residents of the city to remain clear for the city’s streets and to stay in the safety of their homes. “Security forces will not tolerate troublemakers attempting to carry out crimes." "Tear gas is being deployed and where innocent members of the public are threatened, live rounds may be used in accordance with standing orders.” “I will continue to maintain oversight of the security response, while ACP NCD/Central Command has operational direction to bring this situation under control after the escalation we have seen.” Manning said following the conclusion of this operation, there will be a review of the factors that enabled this unrest to start and spread and any gaps in preparedness at the operational level.

Youths of Gerehu and Waigani SDA Church in Port Moresby, carried out a successful missionary trip to Milne Bay Province as part of their yearly program over the festive period. They returned from Milne Bay last week after visiting Iyana awada, Siros, Logea and Lekawa Sakasakali conducting early childhood learning for children and providing free medical assistance. District Director Pastor Matthew Jasper commended the Youths during the closing at Lekawa Sakasakali and he thanked the Youths for their time and support in visiting their communities. He further acknowledged the working committees and the leaders of the team for spearheading the trip and delivering the projects. “I am happy that you have come here to Milne Bay and help the people of my district.” “You did not only come to preach but you also provide medical assistance and educate our children”. “Your visit to Alotau is a complete ministry which you brought teaching and healing apart from sharing the Gospel of Christ”. “You have left the seed to germinate in our soil and it is now our responsibility to continue the ministry”. Part of their major project is funding the construction of newly built church in Lekawa Sakasakali which is already underway. Other projects include assisting the Logea Church building with purchasing of iron roofs and donation of basic materials for early childhood learning school to be established in Siros village. According to one of the working committees Luke Bame, this was an idea of the pioneer youths of Gerehu to go on mission trips and conduct community service projects as well as do outreach. “Why not we plan for visit next year or this year to Milne Bay, not knowing it was going to eventuate soon”. “After learning the need of having a permanent church building in Lekawa Sakasakali through families there, a team of committees was put together to go ahead with the preparation”. All leaders and members have agreed they will continue to support the projects they left and make sure they see it through its launching. From time to time, representatives of the Gerehu Waigani Youths will be paying visits to the various sites to see progress of work.

The Commissioner of Police, David Manning, has expressed his annoyance that a technical problem in the Alesco payroll system caused police pays to be reduced this week. Commissioner Manning said a technical error caused pay deductions that will now be paid to police members. “The situation today where members received reduced pay is not good enough and we are sorting it out,” Commissioner Manning said. “I have been advised by the IRC that the deduction was caused by the Alesco payroll system and is being resolved by the Department of Finance.” “This was a mistake that should not happen as it has hurt lot of people.” “Police, like all public servants, live on tight budgets and every Toea counts when it comes to putting food in the family kitchen.” “This should not have happened and is disrespectful to our police and to any other affected public servant.” “I am consulting with the Minister for Internal Security, Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Jnr, and the Police Association President, Lowa Tambua, and we share the same concerns and are working together resolving this problem.” “I call on our uniformed men and women to have patience as I will see this matter resolved and full pays released.” “At the same time, we must remember that as police, we cannot strike due to our role as a Disciplined State Service.” Meanwhile the Commissioner further warned any individual who sought to stir the matter up and incite unrest for political purposes would be dealt with and charged under the relevant laws. “I warn any external influence, including anyone trying to politicize this issue, that any attempt to propagate unrest or any unlawful activity will not be tolerated.”

The 2023 Digicel Christmas wish promotion grand prizes were drawn yesterday announcing the three lucky winners of K180, 000 cash grand prize. The grand prize draw was drawn at the Digicel Head Quarters by Digicel PNG Head of legal and regulatory, Michael Henao and witnessed by Smartbiz Pacific Limited External Auditor Felix Gabriel. The random selection of qualified numbers was provided to 93 Yumi-FM Radio station, where they were called, announced, and congratulated as winners live on radio broadcast. Congratulations is order to Ida Jake of Port Moresby on the third prize of K30,000, Moses Saun of Vanimo Sundaun for second place prize of K50,000 and to the first-place prize of K100,000 goes to Willie William from Lae. Digicel Senior Vice President Lorna McPherson expressed the excitement to award the winners with their grand prizes of First, second and third place winners. Congratulation also, to 6000 winners in the weekly draws from 17th November to 31st December where Digicel awarded K5, 000 cash money, Gensets. Samsung Galaxy S22 phones, Samsung 50 Smart TV, Entertainment Packs and much more, assisting to make wishes come true. Digicel PNG thanks participants in supporting by purchasing phones and top-up with K5 or more and hopes to see more participation and wishes its valued customers and clients a prosperous 2024.

An off-duty police officer on Monday brutally damaged an automated teller machine (ATM) from frustration of exceeding the standard three attempts of extracting money. The ATM is stationed in Rainbow Stop n Shop and currently out of order, unable for users to use. The off-duty officer was intoxicated and was travelling with three relatives including his wife at the time of the incident. The National Capital District (NCD) Metropolitan Superintendent (Met Supt) Silva Sika told PNG HAUSBUNG the suspect has been apprehended and jailed in Waigani Police Station yesterday and will face the charges for his actions. According to NCD Met Supt Sika, this is a Criminal Investigation Division therefore officers in internal affairs division will be assigned to take on this case accordingly. “The internal affairs division will take point on this case to make sure right actions are drawn to charge the suspect and compensate for the damaged ATM.” “This serves as a testament to display our promise to law and order to eradicate crime whether drawn by anyone, we will stand stronger in the 2024 year,” said Met Supt Sika. NCD police boss is appealing to citizens transiting through Port Moresby and its residents to please be mindful of your actions towards the public and your neighbours as it could lead to a crime. “I understand the different beliefs and intention visitors in Moresby have, but these ideas must not grow beyond the law.” “We will do what is necessary to protect and boost the nation’s economy and we expect the same from its good citizens.”

Madang Provincial Health Authority (PHA) is poised to elevate its healthcare services, courtesy of a recent donation comprising a substantial 9000-liter water tank. This significant contribution is part of the Community Support Initiative spearheaded by Mr. Banasi. The invaluable role of water in healthcare has been duly acknowledged, with expressions of deep gratitude coming from Madang PHA's management, staff, and patients. Dr. Martin Daimen, serving as the Caretaker CEO of Madang PHA, highlights the purpose of the newly acquired water tank. Specifically designated for the Children’s Ward, it is set to play a crucial role during main water system outages, ensuring seamless service delivery. Future plans include extending this provision to other sections, particularly after the replacement of asbestos roofs. Madang PHA is actively exploring water source options and contemplating the installation of Southern Cross water tanks for storage. To minimize disruptions during main water system outages, each section is slated to have a minimum of two standby water tanks. However, the exact water consumption rate is yet to be determined, prompting Madang PHA to conduct assessments for securing an ample water supply during such outages. Concurrently, refurbishment efforts have commenced across all wards, with a focus on Wards 1 and Emergency Departments pending the availability of funds. This initiative aims to ensure the safety of water catchment for storage using the newly acquired tanks. Feasibility studies have also been initiated for the rainwater storage component in the New Madang Provincial Specialist Hospital. In a bid to engage the community and garner support, Madang PHA is set to conduct its inaugural Public Forum this year. This forum will serve as a platform to advocate, showcase, and mobilize stakeholders within and outside Madang to contribute to enhancing health service delivery. Under the leadership of CEO Mr. Fidelis Waipma, Madang PHA is dedicated to establishing partnerships through Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with key stakeholders, including community-based organizations (CBOs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), faith-based organizations (FBOs), and government agencies. Beyond the water-related initiatives, Madang PHA is actively pursuing various projects, encompassing hospital refurbishments, the installation of a new oxygen plant, ICT infrastructure and network development, and refurbishment projects in collaboration with District Development Authorities (DDAs). The organization is committed to fortifying its internal control processes, enhancing human resources, improving health infrastructure and medical equipment, and achieving its health targets, notwithstanding the numerous challenges faced. Dr. Martin Daimen, the Caretaker CEO of Madang PHA, extends gratitude for the continuous support from stakeholders and acknowledges the progress achieved. Despite facing challenges, the organization remains optimistic and anticipates further improvement in the coming year.

In the bustling town of Madang, a local woman entrepreneur, Jacklyn Jimlake, has been silently breaking barriers and defying odds in her pursuit of entrepreneurship. Amidst the challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the province, Jacklyn has emerged as a resilient force, balancing her roles as a full-time employee, mother, and grandmother. One of the major hurdles Jacklyn encountered was the absence of a dedicated marketplace or space for SME women entrepreneurs in Madang. Undeterred by this obstacle, she identified an innovative solution – utilizing her free time to sell meri blouses and other products. Despite the lack of a proper market infrastructure, Jacklyn harnessed the power of social media to strategically promote and sell her creations, proving that determination and adaptability can overcome even the most challenging circumstances. Reflecting on her journey, Jacklyn pinpointed another significant challenge – the limited awareness among women entrepreneurs about the processes involved in obtaining financial assistance from institutions. As a working mother, she faced the added barrier of inflexibility in her daily routines for business preparation and marketing. However, Jacklyn tackled this issue by not only navigating her way through, but also extending opportunities to other women in need, providing them with small opportunities for earning. Jacklyn’s journey further underscores the financial challenges SME women entrepreneurs face, particularly in meeting the stringent requirements set by financial institutions. Undeterred, she sought support from a network of women who exposed her to essential trainings, including financial literacy. While the training came at a personal expense, Jacklyn recognized it as an investment in the future of her SME. To enhance her business acumen and network, Jacklyn actively engaged with local women in the SME space, seeking mentorship and building valuable connections. Her commitment to staying informed about industry trends, especially through social media platforms like Facebook, played a pivotal role in shaping her strategies. By prioritizing and focusing on delivering the latest trends to her customers, Jacklyn successfully struck a balance between work and home life. Jacklyn Jimlake's journey is a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of women entrepreneurs in Madang. Her story serves as an inspiration for others facing similar challenges, demonstrating that with determination, adaptability, and a supportive network, one can overcome the hurdles on the path to entrepreneurship. In a town where opportunities may be limited, Jacklyn has proven that innovation and perseverance can pave the way for success in the world of SMEs.

Air Niugini (ANG) has now transitioned into the new Nadzab Tomodachi International Terminal in Lae, Morobe Province. The National Airports Corporation Limited (NAC) welcomed the National Air Carrier and congratulated them on their successful transition from the old to the new Airport Terminal. This marks the beginning of the NAC working closely with ANG and other airline operators to provide an improved service for passengers. All Air Niugini passengers as well as passengers from other airlines, will now be processed at the new Nadzab Tomodachi International Terminal. The old terminal will remain open; however, it will only be processing cargo for Air Niugini and PNG Air. The new Nadzab Tomodachi International Airport Terminal was officially opened last year however only PNG Air was able to successfully transition to the NAC Common User Passenger Processing System (CUPPS) and were able to operate from the new terminal on that date. “As planned, Air Niugini have commenced normal operations at the new terminal beginning today with a smooth transition of their systems to the NAC system, said Dominic Kaumu, Acting Managing Director, and CEO of NAC.” “All issues have been resolved and we are very pleased that the B737 operations from the new aerobridges have also commenced and have been successful.” Meanwhile, NAC advised all stakeholders that all systems and offices for Customs, Immigration and Quarantine have been installed and set up in the new terminal awaiting arrangements for Regular Passenger Transport (RPT) for international operations which is being organized by the Department of Transport.

The Lae City Authority is set to upgrade more roads this year, with priority on suburban streets and major arterial roads. This was made known by the Lae MP John Rosso via a post on his social media. He explained that this continuing road works are from the previous year years through the partnership with Department of Works and Highways (DoWH) and funding from the National Government. Rosso explained that so far, they have completed Eriku streets right up to Taun street, 2mile to 4mile, Kamkumung and Tent City (in progress). Marterial roads upgraded includes the Unitech-Tent City, Bumbu Road (Golf Club), Chinatown-Malahang, Mangola street (Lae Old Airport) and now the Erica street around the main wharf area. Major arterial roads or industrial roads are responsibilities of the National Government, but we are committed to ensure we partner with GoPNG and DoW to ensure these vital roads are fixed and upgraded. “I will continue to chase funding to support DoW to rehabilitate National Government responsibility roads in our city.” “Thank you to the Marape PANGU government, DoW, IRC, the business community in Lae and all taxpayers in ensuring that we upgraded many of the neglected road systems in the city which have been neglected for decades.” The Lae MP said that the Erica street roads where Coca Cola factory and steamships properties are located is one of the most important economic road in the city. Road is now ready to be sealed with concrete and will be available in a month time to be opened. “My appeal to all our road users is to respect the contractors on the roadworks. Let us be patient with them as they continue their good work in upgrading our roads in the city.” More updates on the road projects in Lae will be given here for the taxpayers benefit as work towards a better Lae in 2024.