East New Britain (ENB) province took a major step recently in resolving land disputes by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Magisterial Services and the Department of Justice and Attorney General (DJAG). This agreement will guide the operations of the Provincial Land Dispute Committee (PLDC), aimed at creating a clear process for addressing conflicts over land, especially those involving customary landowners. Senior Provincial Magistrate, Samuel Lavutul, has been appointed chairman of the committee, while the committee members have been sworn in to commence work on land dispute issues. Danley Puapena, the Advisor for ENB’s Village Court and Land Mediation (VCLM) Division, expressed appreciation for the collaboration, noting that a reviewed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has been created for the committee and mediators to follow. “I thank you all for coming in to sign this document that will enable us, the responsible agency, to implement it,” Puapena said. The formation of the VCLM Division in 2019 underscored ENB’s commitment to effective land dispute resolution. Deputy ENB Provincial Administrator for District and LLG Services, Nicholas Larme, explained that both land mediation and village court functions were previously managed under separate administrative structures. He described the establishment of VCLM as a move to better address land disputes by consolidating these functions. “We pulled land mediation away from the Division of Lands and Physical Planning, and Village Courts out from the LLGs to form the 9th Strategic Result Area (SRA) under the ENB Provincial Administration, the Village Court and Land Mediation (VCLM),” Larme said. Larme highlighted the prevalence of disputes related to customary land, which accounts for 90 percent of all land in Papua New Guinea. With investment projects often causing tensions over land ownership and rights, he emphasized the importance of the PLDC’s work. “Through the work of the PLDC and its enabling Act, we can settle issues arising with customary landowners,” he explained. He also noted that the PLDC had been officially endorsed by the Provincial Executive Council (PEC), adding that its SOP clearly directs how land mediators and other public servants are to conduct their duties. Larme also spoke about the recent establishment of five new Local-Level Governments (LLGs) in ENB and the demand for additional land mediation areas. The new LLGs will have political representatives by the 2025 LLG elections, and by 2027, ENB will gain an additional electorate for the Baining area. From DJAG, Deputy Secretary Stanley Raka said the department is committed to supporting provincial initiatives, including through agreements like the PLDC. “The MOU partnerships with provinces is an ongoing engagement strategy,” Raka said, further highlighting that ENB is the 19th province to join the MOU agreement, with Manus, East Sepik, Enga, and Hela remaining to complete national coverage. “As the country is approaching 50 years old, there is a need to free up more land for the people,” he added. Deputy Chief Magistrate Cliveson Phillip described the MOU as a non-binding document that specifies the roles of each party, focusing on coordination. He emphasized that the ENB agreement includes a well-organized SOP for all land dispute actions. “What makes this 19th PLDC MOU signing unique is that it has a better organized arrangement where the provincial administration has mainstreamed the preparatory work, in terms of the SOP that goes before the MOU signing,” Phillip said. He stressed the importance of setting up a secretariat and office for record-keeping and monitoring, a process supported by the Land Dispute Settlement Act. “You need to set up a secretariat and an office, to ensure records are properly archived." "This is part of M&E (monitoring and evaluation),” he said.

In a move signaling unity, the OUR Party, with 16 parliamentary members, has chosen to join forces with Prime Minister James Marape’s government. According to Finschaffen MP and party leader, Rainbo Paita, this decision aims to address Papua New Guinea’s pressing issues collaboratively, emphasizing that political unity is essential to overcome the nation’s economic and social obstacles. “Despite our effort in the recent Vote of No Confidence to cause a change of Government, we recognize that the majority of our Members of Parliament support the Government.” Paita said today, Friday November 15, explaining the party’s shift to support Marape’s administration. “It is clear that another move for a Vote of No Confidence will cause more harm to our public service and stall vital government services and programs as we’ve seen in the last one.” He said Papua New Guinea currently faces a multitude of challenges, pointing out law and order issues, rising inflation, economic stagnation, a lack of foreign investment, and deteriorating services from state-owned enterprises such as PNG Power, Telikom PNG, and Air Niugini, which have been struggling despite financial support. These issues “demand immediate and cohesive action from all political fronts,” he stressed. He said OUR Pati's decision follows extensive consultations with government leaders, reflecting a commitment to put national interests above political differences. “Our decision is a strategic move aimed at introducing alternate policies that address these challenges, stabilize the environment, restore investor confidence, and improve fiscal conditions.” He reiterated that this shift does not compromise the party's values but aligns with its commitment to achieving tangible improvements for the nation. Looking ahead to Papua New Guinea’s 50th anniversary of independence, Paita assured the public that OUR Pati remains dedicated to service improvement and governance reforms, pledging continued advocacy in areas like healthcare, education, digital governance, and anti-corruption efforts. “OUR Pati is committed to unity and ensuring that the best interest of our country is above personal and political interests." "Our motivation is not rooted in personal gain, but rather in genuine concern for our nation’s immediate and long-term welfare,” Paita affirmed. This call for unity and reform aims to inspire confidence in the government’s ability to meet critical national needs. “We thank the Almighty for this move and look forward to a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Papua New Guinea." Several of these parliamentary leaders include Kompiam Ambum MP, Sir John Pundaru, West New Britain Governor Sasindran Muthuvel. The Opposition Leader is understood to release a response soon.

This news just in. 14 Opposition Members have announced their move back to government. Our Pati, led by by Rainbo Paita announce this today in Port Moresby. More details on the 5 and 6 pm news and keep following PNG HAUSBUNG for more on this story.

At the Rabaul Page Park Market, a new Collector of Public Money (COPM) office was officially opened on Monday November 11th. The office, located in the former fish market kiosk, will be responsible for managing the market's financial records and performing basic accounting tasks related to revenue collection. East New Britain Provincial Market Authority (ENBPMA) CEO Mr. Peter Lapim said the new office was part of ongoing improvements to enhance market operations. The office's creation was part of a K20,000 investment, which also funded the new Kokopo storage facility. Deputy CEO and Provincial Market Supervisor, Mr. Peter Kilang, praised the authority for approving the funds necessary for these projects, which are aimed at improving the smooth running of market activities. He added that similar facilities are planned for Kerevat in the Gazelle District and Palmalmal in Pomio District. The new COPM office plays a crucial role in overseeing the market's financial functions and ensuring transparency in revenue collection. Kilang further emphasized that the improvements in Rabaul Page Park and Kokopo would greatly benefit the vendors, offering them better services and operational efficiency across East New Britain’s markets.

National Capital District (NCD) and Central Province residents are urged to follow official procedures when requesting police assistance for evictions. Chief Superintendent Benjamin Turi, Commander of NCD and Central Provinces, issued a firm reminder, stating that any eviction exercise within the city must be approved and authorized by police bosses, not junior officers. Turi emphasized that no evictions in these regions should proceed without direct approval from his office. "I am their boss, and I will instruct them to go if I see that the documents provided are legal," he said. Turi explained that the public must engage with the proper channels, starting with the NCD Metropolitan Superintendent or the Central Provincial Police Commander, who are the only authorities authorized to assign police units to assist in evictions. This announcement comes as a response to complaints that unauthorized evictions are being carried out with police involvement, resulting in community unrest and, at times, violence. Highlighting the proper process, Commander Turi outlined four key steps for property or landowners seeking police support for evictions: 1.Submit Valid Legal Documentation: Property or landowners must first provide all required legal documents, such as court orders, land or property titles, and ejection orders, confirming that they are the legitimate owners. 2.Document Verification by Legal Officers: Once submitted, Turi’s office will conduct a thorough review of the legal documents to confirm authenticity and accuracy. 3.Official Instructions from Commander's Office: If verified, the Commander’s office will issue an instruction for police engagement, directed to either the Metropolitan Superintendent for NCD or the Provincial Police Commander (PPC) for Central. 4.Assignment of Police Units: Based on the Commander’s directive, the Met-Supt or PPC will assign specific police units to provide security during the eviction. Emphasizing the sensitivity of eviction cases, Turi warned that unsanctioned police involvement in evictions could cause severe dissatisfaction among affected residents, with examples already reported. A recent incident in Morobe Block, at 9-Mile in NCD, illustrates these concerns: police officers, alongside individuals claiming to be landowners, conducted an unauthorized eviction, which ended in a police-involved shooting. Turi confirmed that investigations are ongoing and that the police officers involved will be held accountable, facing arrests and charges. Turi also appealed to the general public, urging them to confirm police authorization during evictions. “If you become a victim of eviction, please make sure you confirm that the police officers who are there have documents with signatures and stamps from my office,” he advised. This is essential to ensure that police presence at eviction sites is legitimate and that officers have the proper authorization. Furthermore, Turi issued a stern warning to residents and landowners who bypass his office, warning them against personally selecting police officers to assist in evictions. "If you are handpicking police officers anywhere to assist with your eviction without my authorization, you must be prepared to look after them when they are dismissed from the force," Turi stated.

The Kokopo City Authority (KCA) is set to purchase two generator sets to help improve power supply in Kokopo City. Acting Kokopo District Administrator, Mr. Darius Kunai confirmed that the generators will be leased to PNG Power Limited (PPL) to support the city's power needs. "We have submitted a proposal to the State-Owned Enterprises (SOE) department to get those two generators over," Kunai explained. "We will lease the generators to PPL, and whatever power service is supplied to consumers, will be charged to PNG Power." The generators will be installed at the Ulagunan Thermal Station in the Kokopo Vunamami Urban LLG, with PPL managing their operation. A contract will be drawn up to formalize the partnership, with revenue from the arrangement to be shared between KCA and PPL. Meanwhile, the proposed solar farm at Raiven in the Bitapaka LLG has been delayed due to complications with the initial US-based developer. Kunai noted that KCA had already paid K750,000 to the company a few years ago, but no work had been completed. "The Kokopo Member (Ereman ToBaining) is still looking for ways to get this off the ground," Kunai added, indicating that efforts to move forward with the project are ongoing.

In a strong warning to drug traffickers, the Tabubil District Court in Western Province, sentenced a man to six years with hard labor for possession of 4.5 kilograms of marijuana, with a street value close to K30, 000. The acting North Fly Police Commander, Inspector Anjap Minata, confirmed that the defendant, Mr. Ipark Amlat, 38, from Sanapte village in Oksapmin, Teleformin District, West Sepik Province, initially appeared before the Tabubil District Court, where he pled guilty. The court then adjourned the case to allow the prosecution to submit recommendations for sentencing. On November 6, 2024, Amlat returned to court for sentencing and was handed a six-year prison term with hard labor. Inspector Minata explained that, accounting for the 25 days Amlat spent in pre-trial detention, he will serve five years, 11 months, and five days at Ningrume Correctional Services in Western Province. Amlat was apprehended on October 12, 2024, between 1 p.m. and 2 p.m., when police found him with 4.5 kilograms of marijuana, estimated to have a street value of K20,000 to K30,000. He was charged under Section 3 (1)(d) of the Dangerous Drug Act for possession. Inspector Minata issued a stern warning to those engaged in the drug trade, saying, “I warn those people who are engaged in drug trading business to take this as a lesson and quit from involving in these illegal activities." "It is a fast-money-making business, but by doing this illegal business, you are only destroying the lives of younger generations of this nation." "The public are already tired of individuals who are involved in these illegal activities, and soon, the public will front up and manhandle you.” Inspector Minata further emphasized the police’s commitment to cracking down on drug activities in the region, stating, “If police catch you in possession or carrying marijuana drugs, then you will be arrested and charged and will still end up in jail just like our friend.” The ruling sends a clear message that drug trafficking will not be tolerated in Western Province, as authorities work to keep communities safe from its impact.

Prime Minister James Marape has announced he will not attend the United Nations Global Climate Summit (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, citing a lack of global commitment to rainforest protection. Baku is located between Eastern Europe, and Western Asia. The prime minister raised serious concern over the limited finance and slow progress on reversing global deforestation, which was agreed upon at COP28 in Dubai. “Papua New Guinea is a major rainforest nation, and we are making our stance clear by protesting against these nations who do not prioritize either domestic emission reductions or global rainforest conservation,” Marape said, reflecting his frustration with high-emission countries. Despite efforts under the Paris Agreement, the Prime Minister said large industrialized nations have yet to meet their commitments, particularly under Articles 5 and 6, which target greenhouse gas conservation and compliant carbon markets. Marape stressed that, “the conversation on climate change is incomplete without genuine action on preserving the world’s rainforests, which serve as vital carbon sinks and replenish our atmosphere through oxygen production and carbon removal.” Marape further criticized the summits for overlooking rainforest's critical role in combating climate change and shared his hope that the upcoming COP30 in Brazil—a fellow rainforest-rich nation—would prioritize rainforest conservation. “We look forward to COP30 in Brazil, where we hope rainforest nations will have a stronger voice,” he said, reiterating PNG’s commitment to impactful climate solutions and its decision to skip COP29 as a call for meaningful global action on rainforests. He further clarified that PNG’s absence from COP29 is not a retreat, but rather a protest emphasizing the urgency of rainforest preservation. “Papua New Guinea has sent our apologies to the COP29 organisers and reiterates our call for more meaningful action in support of global rainforest preservation,” he said in a statement.

Deputy Commissioner of Police - Chief of Administration - Dr. Philip Mitna when officially declaring open the training program for the 2nd batch of 2023 police recruits at the Bomana Centre of Excellence on Monday November 11th, paid tribute to the late Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Training, Peter Philip, who passed away on November 1st. Dr. Mitna shared his sorrow over the loss of ACP Philip, highlighting his substantial contributions to the college and Constabulary. "The late ACP Philips will leave his legacy and imprint here at the college where he previously served as Commandant and during his recent re-appointment and tenure as ACP Training over the past few months," Dr. Mitna said, emphasizing the Philip’s dedication to training and development. Dr. Mitna acknowledged that ACP Philip had made remarkable progress in reshaping the administrative functions of the college, even within his brief term. “He performed exceptionally well in a very short period of time by reshaping the administrative functions of the college, and we were looking forward to seeing many positive changes when he sadly passed away." Dr. Mitna said. Philip’s untimely passing has affected not only his immediate family but also the Bomana staff, their families, and the trainees. “It is a very sad time indeed, especially for his immediate family and relatives, the staff and their families, and the trainees here at the college,” Dr. Mitna added. “While we weep over this untimely loss, we must also prepare ourselves for the journey ahead and take responsibility.” In the wake of Philip’s passing, Assistant Commissioner Perou Ndranou has been appointed as the new ACP Training, assuming the responsibility to carry on Philip’s mission. The RPNGC management has confirmed plans for a state funeral in both the National Capital District and East Sepik Province, where ACP Philip’s casket will be transported to Wewak for burial.

Eight people - two females, six males - which include a brother and sister, are confirmed dead, with several children critically injured, following a nasty car accident along the Highlands Highway at Pabarabuk in the Nebilyer District in the Western Highlands Province. The Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Chief Superintendent John Sagom says they were killed when two PMV buses - a 15-seater, and a 25-seater - collided around 2pm on Friday, November 8th. Eyewitnesses told police that the 15-seater bus loaded with passengers traveling to Kagua in the Southern Highlands province from Mt Hagen decided to take the lane which the 25-seater bus was traveling at the high speed to Mt Hagen from Walume. Both PMVs are owned by Southern Highlanders. According to PPC Sagom, the 15-seater bus, which was on the wrong lane, was in the process of returning to its lane, but it was too late, as the 25-seater bus, which was travelling at high speed, crashed with impact, resulting in the deaths, leaving several others, including children critically injured. PPC Sagom confirmed that a brother and a sister from Kagua in the Southern Highlands province were among the eight passengers killed in this unfortunate accident. He said they (deceased) were believed to be with the passengers travelling on the 15-seater bus to Kagua. Police, assisted by nearby villagers, retrieved the dead bodies, and those critically injured. PPC Sagom said police officers used a welding machine to cut-opened the busses and retrieve some trapped passengers. He said one of the bodies was retrieved late at around 7pm in that night, before police were able to transport the bodies, and injured passengers to the Mt. Hagen General Hospital. The children, aged between five and eight, who were critically injured, were admitted at the Mt Hagen General Hospital Emergency Unit. “I warn every vehicle travelling on the road to be cautious about passengers who are getting on board," PPC Sagom said in an official statement, when conveying his condolences to the families and relatives of those killed. "They (drivers) must be careful about the way they are driving because accidents are happening one after the other," he said. "I also urge all the drivers to be mindful of the passengers they are carrying in those motor vehicles." PPC Sagom stated that Mt. Hagen-based police highway patrols are investigating to identify the owners of both vehicles involved, as well as to gather information on the deceased and the victims, to determine the cause of the accident.

Bige Fuel Station, located at Dogura in the Central Province, on Friday, November 8th, donated K100 worth of fuel to each of ten police vehicles in Port Moresby for the weekend’s Drunk Patrol operations. Company owner Damien Bige made the contribution to support police efforts against rising crime rates in NCD and Central Province, enabling officers to maintain a strong presence on the streets during peak hours. Bige expressed his commitment to helping police keep the city safe, saying, "I am giving only fuel to our hardworking officers to continue their duty around our City NCD/Central to fight crime." Acknowledging limited resources, he apologized to other police units who were unable to receive fuel on Friday afternoon, adding, "That's all I can afford to support to fight crimes." The NCD/Central police command has welcomed the support. Meantime, Police Minister Peter Tsiamalili revealed to a high-level Marape-led coalition government's meeting that PNG’s police force operates with less than half its needed staff, with one officer serving every 1,600 people. To address this, the government aims to recruit 500 new officers by 2025 and is working with Australia to double this number. Five senior roles in Enga Province will be filled by Commonwealth officers as part of a pilot program to strengthen local police leadership. The meeting led by Prime Minister James Marape and Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso, and coalition leaders and coordinated by the Chief Secretary to Government Ivan Pomaleu, discussed key national security priorities ahead of the November 26th Parliament session and the 2025 National Budget. With Policing and law enforcement improvements taking center stage, the government's focus now is on tackling emerging threats like transnational crime and cyber security issues. Plans include expanding community policing, boosting police manpower, and investing in ICT and AI technologies for better crime management, with leaders stressing police funding in the upcoming "Secure PNG 2025" budget.

Port Moresby residents united in a strong show of support today, Sunday November 10th, as they participated in the “United to End Violence Against Women” campaign, led by Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae and NCD Governor Powes Parkop. Starting at Sir John Guise Stadium, the group marched to Parliament Haus and back again, chanting and holding banners in support of women’s rights and safety. Police ensured a peaceful event, which also marked the start of “Redvember,” a month dedicated to raising awareness about safety and unity in the city. Governor Powes Parkop expressed deep gratitude to the Governor-General and all attendees, acknowledging the high turnout and presence of dignitaries who joined on short notice. "Thank each and every one of you for a massive turn up today,” Parkop said. "It's a great sea of red making a big statement to call on all of us to put more effort, absolutely more effort, towards ending violence against women." Parkop highlighted the commitment of various diplomats, community leaders, and sponsors like Puma Energy, which provided red T-shirts for participants to signify a call to "stop violence." Diplomatic representatives included Anne McCraw from the United Kingdom, William Sawaki of the Solomon Islands, and Dr. Joanne Launders from the Australian High Commission, among others. Parkop also praised the Active City Development Program for its ongoing community engagement efforts, saying, “Our team continuously provides a platform for us to come together and raise many issues, today focusing on ending violence against women." Parkop further acknowledged community members and families affected by gender-based violence, including the family of the late Jessica Yori, who joined to demand justice and accountability. "Justice must be served, and justice is not being done,” he stressed, urging police to arrest perpetrators to deter future violence. During his speech, Parkop encouraged men and boys to actively respect and support women and girls, imagining a united Papua New Guinea where all citizens work together. “Imagine the difference it would make for this great country that God has blessed so much,” he stated, underscoring that respect and peace are foundational values inspired by the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare. Parkop’s vision calls on everyone—from individuals to communities—to make a firm commitment to end violence. ' “When each and every one of us, at our individual level, makes a commitment to stop violence and to show respect, that’s when real tangible change will happen.”