Prime Minister James Marape officially opened the new “Hela Unity Market” in Tari, Hela Province, on Friday, November 1, 2024, marking a significant boost for local business and community engagement. The K10 million market, a modernized facility, was established to support farmers by providing a reliable space to sell fresh produce, prepared meals, and traditional crafts. The market also aims to meet the increasing demand for quality agricultural products by offering state-of-the-art facilities, including future plans for livestock sales and freezer storage for animal products. At the opening, Prime Minister Marape, who is also Hela MP, stressed the broader economic impact this market could have on Hela’s resource-rich economy, especially as it can now link local farmers with major markets in Port Moresby and Lae cities. "This new Hela Unity Market is the perfect avenue for you to capitalise on to sustain yourselves," Marape said, emphasizing how vendors can now more easily access banking and financial support locally. “Your district, provincial, and national government are here to support you where we can by providing the resources you need to succeed," he continued. Reflecting on his own background, Marape shared his personal connection to the market, explaining how he once sold produce with his mother at the old Tari market to fund his education. Encouraging the community to seize new opportunities, he reminded them that the new market is designed for self-reliance and economic growth, ensuring that the people of Tari and Hela have the support to thrive.

The KCK Rigo Rice Cup CEO, McSteve Polly, has announced the appointment of Billy Aki as the tournament coordinator for the Rigo Rice Cup 2024 challenge in Port Moresby North-West. Aki, who serves as Chairman of the NCD Suburban Sports Foundation and President of the Moresby North-West Rugby League, brings substantial experience to the role, making his addition a strong asset to the team. In a statement, Polly said the appointment was formalized on Thursday, October 31st, following a formal meeting in Port Moresby. Aki’s wealth of experience, including his work with top-tier competitions like the NCD Governor’s Cup, is expected to enrich the tournament and inspire a new generation of rugby league players. In accepting the role, Aki voiced his enthusiasm for the tournament and confirmed his commitment to developing local talent. He has also permitted Kone Tigers Oval as the designated venue for the Port Moresby North-West pool matches, providing an established rugby league ground for the tournament. The Rigo Rice Cup, an inaugural championship, will launch on November 9th, 2024, and will be structured into four pools across Port Moresby. The event, slated to be giving away over K300, 000 in cash prizes, with about 60 registered teams so far, promises to be a significant addition to the region’s rugby league calendar, fostering community engagement and showcasing up-and-coming players.

The ICC’s Future Leaders Programme, aimed at grooming emerging cricket administrators, launched its 2024 edition with a comprehensive workshop held in Dubai from October 20. A key focus of this workshop is fostering female leadership within the sport, and this year’s cohort features 15 mentees from various cricket bodies, including Cricket PNG. Among the chosen participants is Henao Samuel, Participation Programs Manager at Cricket PNG. Paired with Claire Kelly, Managing Director of Gemba Europe, Samuel’s participation underscores Cricket PNG’s role in advancing leadership and inclusivity in cricket throughout the Pacific region. The ICC's 100% Cricket Future Leaders Programme, now in its fourth edition, addresses the cricket industry’s pressing need for female leaders and strives to create pathways for administrators to reach senior roles, according to a statement from International Cricket Competition (ICC) sent to PNG HAUSBUNG from Cricket PNG. The statement explains that over a ten-month journey, mentees will gain crucial insights and training from mentors drawn from diverse sporting backgrounds. Former Australia captain and ICC Hall of Famer, Clark, said: “This is an exciting time for the game. The transformation of cricket on the field has been amazing and inspires us to work towards accelerating progress off the field. This program is designed to support that change.” ICC Manager – Women’s Cricket, Snehal Pradhan, added: “The Future Leaders Programme for administrators is one of the ICC’s most powerful interventions to impact a business problem the cricket ecosystem has, of not having enough female leaders. The mentee-mentor pairings span numerous countries and cricket associations, creating a global network of support. Each mentee, including Samuel from Cricket PNG, will benefit from hands-on guidance through direct mentorship, aligning with ICC’s objective to develop capable administrators ready to lead future cricket initiatives worldwide. Samuel, representing the ICC's Pacific members, will be among participants from notable bodies such as Cricket Australia, Surrey County Cricket Club, and Cricket South Africa. In addition to fostering female leadership, ICC and Emirates will collaborate on community-oriented projects through the 100% Cricket programme, aiming to empower women and young girls across different communities. The workshop held in Dubai marked the start of this extensive program, where mentees and mentors assembled for introductory sessions, training, and planning for the months ahead. The program has quickly evolved since its 2021 launch, becoming a vital part of the ICC’s commitment to cultivating diverse and skilled leadership. With guidance from industry experts, Cricket PNG’s Henao Samuel and her fellow mentees will engage in a transformative learning experience, equipping them with the tools to make a significant impact in cricket administration.

Police officers in the National Capital District (NCD) and Central Province are facing heavy challenges due to an overwhelming population demand, according to outgoing acting commander for NCD/Central, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Peter Guinness. He said with a current ratio of only one officer for every 1, 000 people, Guinness stressed the urgent need for enhanced support and organization to meet public safety needs effectively. He said NCD alone has a growing population of about 1 million plus. To address these concerns, Guinness has proposed a centralized "mega police station" concept that would unite police management and political leaders in a shared mission. “This is the only way the police can manage their manpower and resources and can also seek assistance from the political leaders,” said Guinness. He suggested that, with a collective effort, the strained police resources could be used more effectively across NCD and Central. This strategic proposal is aimed not only at increasing efficiency but also at building a stronger, unified leadership within the police force to better serve the growing population. With increasing law and order issues, Guinness is hopeful that his ideas will materialize, adding, “What I provided to the management and the political leaders would come to fruition so the command could change.” He stated this at the handover ceremony of the NCD/Central command post to Chief Superintendent Benjamin Turi on Friday, November 1st, as ACP Guinness returns to his position of Northen Command after a 10-month stint to stablise NCD following the January 10th, or Black Wednesday riots.

The debate continues over the recent appointment of six King’s Counsel’s, this time, the country’s legal fraternity representative body – the Papua New Guinea Law Society (PNGLS) -has expressed serious concern into unilateral vetting and appointment process of KC’s. Simply put, the PNGLS said bluntly that “we will not recognize these appointments as legitimate.” The six KC’s appointment was published in a recent gazette notice, but the PNGLS in a statement released on Friday November 1st, stated that this unprecedented move comes in the absence of any established system, policy, or legal framework to support such appointments in our jurisdiction. Comparing the appointment process, the statement reads, “In Australia and the United Kingdom there are established processes for the vetting and appointment of KCs”. The statement goes on to explain that “In those jurisdictions KC appointments are independently managed within the Bar, driven by established protocols and criteria that uphold the integrity of the legal profession.” “PNGLS firmly believes that the process of appointing KCs must be transparent, merit-based, and governed by a recognized regulatory framework.” “By circumventing these essential principles, the Attorney General’s actions raise significant questions about the decision to appoint KCs and its implications for the rule of law in Papua New Guinea.” “We wish to clarify that our concerns are not directed at the individual lawyers who have been purportedly appointed; we hold respect for their accomplishments and dedication to the legal profession (but) we are critical of the appointments because of the lack of process, accountability and transparency over the appointments and the fact that the PNGLS was not consulted,” PNGLS stated. “In a time when our legal institutions require fortification rather than division, such unilateral actions undermine the profession's credibility and threaten the independence of the Bar.” “We are committed to championing the standards and dignity of the legal profession; thus, we will not recognize these appointments as legitimate”, PNGLS stated. “As a collective body representing legal practitioners in Papua New Guinea, the PNGLS calls upon the Attorney General to clarify the reasoning behind these appointments and to engage with the Bar in a respectful dialogue about the future of our legal system.” “We urge a return to processes that prioritize transparency, legitimacy, and the rule of law.” The statement concludes, “We stand resolute in our commitment to advocate for the proper administration of justice and the protection of our legal profession.”

The National Statistical Office (NSO) has announced it will officially release Papua New Guinea’s 2023 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) figures next week. The release will take place at NSO’s office on Level 4 of Twin Tower 2 in Waigani, expected on Thursday afternoon, according to NSO. The event will include a detailed presentation on the GDP estimates by NSO staff, for NSO SET TO RELEASE 2023 GDP Figures followed by an official release by the Minister for Administrative Services, Richard Masare. NSO says this release is set to provide insight into the country’s economic growth over the past year and offer a foundation for future economic planning. PNG’s GDP for 2022 grew significantly due to improvements in production and prices, hitting K19,615.4 million (about 21.4% growth) in current prices. The increase was driven by a rebound in the mining and quarrying sector, particularly with a 68.4% rise in petroleum and natural gas extraction, as well as solid contributions from agriculture, forestry, fishing, and wholesale trade sectors. In terms of constant prices, which measure real production volume changes, PNG's GDP saw a 5.2% growth, marking a positive year for economic recovery across various industries. For detailed information, the National Statistical Office's GDP report for 2022 offers a comprehensive breakdown, while a copy of the 2023 report will be provided to the media.

Outgoing NCD/Central Divisional Commander, Assistant Commissioner for Police (ACP) Peter Guinness today officially handed over the reins of the command position to incoming, Chief Superintendent Benjamin Turi, urging NCD and Central police to strengthen command and control. Both ACP Guinness and Turi have called for officers in the National Capital District (NCD) and Central Province to refocus on core responsibilities and strengthen public trust. ACP Guinness urged senior police officers to return to their duty statements and prioritize basic policing functions. He acknowledged the hard work of officers who “had been doing their best every day” to keep the city safe, and extended gratitude to NCD Governor Powes Parkop for supporting the police force. Chief Superintendent Turi, when thanking ACP Guinness for bringing stability back to NCD in the last 10 months following the January 10th or Black Wednesday riots, emphasized unity within the command, encouraging officers to work closely with one another and with community stakeholders. “There are many differences among police officers which is not good,” he said, urging them to put past conflicts aside. Turi outlined his vision of a “fresh start” to address public concerns. “The past is gone, and the command will start fresh to bring policing service to everyone.” Both leaders underscored the importance of ethical conduct and regaining public trust. Turi acknowledged that “police officers must now work together to bring back the trust from the public and the business community.” He pledged to focus on accountability and restoring professionalism within the force as they build a new path forward for the NCD and Central police.

East New Britain (ENB) Provincial Administrator Levi Mano has assured that the provincial government will soon award land titles to the resettled people of Rabaul district, now living in the Gazelle, Kokopo, and Pomio districts. Reflecting on past efforts, Mr. Mano commended the National Lands Department’s recent delivery of nearly 200 titles to Talvat Sikut residents in Pomio, saying, "This is the final and an important part of the restoration program that was supposed to have been completed decades ago.” "We plan to do the same for Clifton - Asing, Vunakabi, Warena, and Gelagele resettlements, so we can issue titles to everybody that has lived there for 30 years." "This is the intention of the Provincial Government, and we will go in a big way in 2025,” he added. Mr. Mano confirmed preparatory work has begun to issue all titles by December 2025. Mr. Mano also thanked political leaders and community members from the three districts for accommodating the resettled families. "Let me assure our people that the provincial administration will be working around the clock to ensure that those in the other 4 major resettlements are given their land titles so that they can use it for their benefit." The ENB Provincial Government initially acquired four plantations when the National Development Bank (NDB) auctioned them in the early 1990s after leaseholders defaulted on loans. "Except for Sikut Talvat, which was already a state-owned land, where we only requested the National Land Tenders Board not to sit on that portion of land in 1994, so we could resettle our people, under a State of Emergency at that time," Mr. Mano aid. He said that people were resettled on state land but the process of land allocation was not completed until September this year, when the National Land Board gave out 199 land titles, facilitated by Prime Minister James Marape. "The other 4 resettlement areas are just plantations that we were lucky enough to purchase at that time, when they were advertised by the NDB," he said. It is estimated that a few more hundreds would be given titles, as the whole population along the caldera to coast of Kombiu LLG, were allocated blocks of land in the resettlement areas.

Papua New Guinea’s recent appointments of King’s Counsel have stirred debate, with Morobe Governor Luther Wenge addressing criticisms raised by Sinasina-Yongamugl MP Kerenga Kua, a career senior lawyer before entering politics. Kua alleges that these appointments, made by the Governor-General, were “illegal and without effect,” and admitted that he “has not done any research” on the matter. Governor Wenge, a former acting judge, countered these statements, defending the appointments as lawful and emphasizing their alignment with practices in Commonwealth countries. “Legal research will reveal that the appointments of King’s Counsel were lawful in all respects and that the Governor-General has made appointments in the same manner as has been adopted in most other Commonwealth jurisdictions," Wenge said. He further argued that the King’s Counsel titles bring benefits to Papua New Guinea, supporting the legal profession’s growth and reputation within the Commonwealth. According to Wenge, the titles reflect the quality of local lawyers and help raise standards in line with countries like Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. Wenge listed several benefits of these appointments: - Recognition and Standards: He explained that the King’s Counsel title shows that Papua New Guinean lawyers are on par with their peers across the Commonwealth. “The appointments demonstrate that Lawyers of the National and Supreme Courts of Papua New Guinea who practice as advocates are in no way inferior to their colleagues in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Solomon Islands, Tonga, and other Commonwealth countries." - Professional Development: Wenge noted that the appointments foster a strong legal path for advocates and encourage the growth of PNG’s legal system. “They foster the continued development of the Papua New Guinea legal profession and judicial system as the equivalent of those in other parts of the Commonwealth." - Talent Pool and Representation: Wenge believes that a local pool of experienced lawyers will benefit both the government and citizens, enhancing the quality of legal advice and representation available. “The appointments create a pool of legal talent available to the State and all Papua New Guinean litigants and citizens for advice and representation." - Eligibility for Judges: These appointments, Wenge argued, create a clearer route for future judicial appointments. “The appointments identify lawyers who practice as advocates who may be considered eligible and appropriate for appointment as King’s Counsel, and then later eligible for elevation as Judges.” Wenge further highlighted the symbolic importance of this decision as Papua New Guinea approaches its 50th anniversary of independence. He sees the King’s Counsel title as a recognition of the nation’s standing within the Commonwealth. “It is long overdue,” he emphasized, stating that the appointments underline Papua New Guinea’s equality with other independent states. He further commended Justice Minister and Attorney General Pila Niningi for his role in supporting this change. “The Attorney General is to be congratulated on this historic and momentous development to our legal profession in Papua New Guinea,” Wenge stated.

A fast police response led to the arrest of a 22-year-old man suspected of fatally stabbing his 20-year-old girlfriend in Gordons, Port Moresby, on Tuesday, October 29, between 8 and 9 a.m. Acting NCD Metropolitan Superintendent Mazuc Rubiang confirmed the arrest, saying the suspect is now in custody at the Gordons police station for questioning. According to the police report, the victim, identified as Dorcas Mafu, was from Moveave Village in Malalaua district of Gulf Province. She died instantly after being stabbed with a kitchen knife in the chest and breast. The suspect, identified as Issac Kuri, is reportedly from Anda village in the South Wagi District of Jiwaka Province. Police shared that the two first met at Fatima Vocational School in Jiwaka. Their relationship was opposed by Dorcas’s family, who eventually brought her back to Port Moresby. Kuri, however, followed her and was reportedly living at Gerehu Stage 6 in the city. Superintendent Rubiang explained that on the day of the incident, Dorcas had gone with her aunt to Gordons for shopping. Kuri, upon learning their location, followed them around the Jade Island area. When Dorcas and her aunt finished shopping and attempted to get into a taxi, Kuri reportedly confronted the aunt at knifepoint, demanding she not enter the cab. Shocked, the aunt asked another person with them to confirm his identity, and it was confirmed that Kuri was indeed Dorcas’s boyfriend. The confrontation led Dorcas to assure Kuri they would walk together instead of taking the taxi. Kuri agreed, and they all began walking toward Sand Piper Street. However, as they walked, Kuri suddenly pulled Dorcas toward him and stabbed her three times in the chest. Dorcas collapsed on the spot and died instantly. Her aunt immediately called out for help, and bystanders quickly apprehended Kuri as he attempted to flee. Police arrived soon after and took Kuri into custody. “The matter was reported to the police homicide office, which responded quickly,” Rubiang said in a statement. “Officers conducted a preliminary investigation and visited the Port Moresby General Hospital." "We identified witnesses, and statements were taken." "The suspect is now detained and will be charged accordingly.” Superintendent Rubiang expressed his condolences to Dorcas’s family and urged parents to be aware of their children’s relationships and well-being. “Parents should have open discussions with their children to understand where and how they are doing,” he advised. “This can help prevent situations like what happened to the deceased and her boyfriend." "I am deeply sorry for this tragedy, and I assure the family of the deceased that the police will ensure the suspect faces the full force of the law.” Rubiang’s comments highlighted the importance of vigilance and proactive family support to help keep young people safe. He assured the community that the police would thoroughly investigate the case and ensure justice is served. Police efforts were praised for their quick response in a tense situation, and Rubiang committed to bringing a sense of safety back to the community following this tragic incident.

On Wednesday, October 30th, in a strong display of manpower and community engagement, NCD Metro Police gathered at Unagi Oval in Port Moresby city to raise awareness on recent changes to police bail for common offenses in the city. As part of the ongoing Operation Harim Tok / Senisim Pasin campaign, police extended the citywide awareness campaign to educate the public on the new, stricter bail terms for certain serious offenses. The event was led by NCD/Central Divisional Commander, the Assistant Commissioner for Police (ACP) Benjamin Turi (ACP), and Acting Metropolitan Superintendent and Criminal Investigation Division (CID) Superintendent, Detective Superintendent Mazuc Rubiang. Together, they unveiled the revised police bail fees for a range of common indictable offenses. The new bail schedule includes: 1. Ethnic clashes and tribal fights – K10,000 2. Alcohol-related offenses – K5,000 3. Domestic Violence and FSVU-related offenses – K2,000 4. Possession of offensive weapons – K10,000 5. Street vending/sales – K5,000 More than twenty police vehicles participated in a convoy through high-traffic areas and hot spots like Gordons, Waigani, Gerehu, Baruni, Boroko, Badili, Koki, and Sabama, showing their unified commitment to maintaining public order. The NCD Metro Police, under Operation Harim Tok / Senisim Pasin, will continue these community awareness campaigns through to the upcoming Christmas and New Year 2025 operations. These operations are intended to reinforce public safety and educate the community on the consequences of committing offenses under the new bail terms. With the previous police bail set between K300 to K500, authorities saw it as lenient and easily accessible, which may not effectively deter repeat offenders. The increase in bail fees for these offenses is aimed at discouraging criminal behavior and addressing issues of ethnic clashes, alcohol misuse, and domestic violence. Police reminded citizens that the higher bail requirements would be implemented immediately following Wednesday's show of strength, intended to foster a safer, more peaceful environment. The NCD Metro Police extended well wishes to the community, emphasizing, Community Policing - Securing a Safer Community in Partnership.”

The Yanamundi Waleah Panthers have clinched the first spot in the 2024 Pangia Rugby League grand final after a close 14-10 win over MK Rabbitors in the major semifinal. With over 2, 000 spectators in attendance, the Panthers struck early when winger Joshua Length scored off a perfectly timed chip kick from halfback Riggi Yapi, putting the Panthers ahead 6-0. The Rabbitors quickly responded with a try from Kelli Joel, leveling the score at 6-6. From there, the game see-sawed, with Panthers standout Manu Samuel leading his teammates in hard-fought drives and defensive plays. Key players Frady Rex, Chris Jerry, Pewe Kone, and Jojo Auka all contributed to the tense battle. Panthers regained the lead when Nemaiah Jeffery crossed the line, but the Rabbitors again responded to bring the score to 10-10. As the clock wound down, Yapi scored the decisive unconverted try, sealing the Panthers' path to the grand final. Panthers’ coach Mike Epu confirmed he would retain the current lineup, expressing full confidence in his players. “It’s a grand final, and we will stick to our game plan,” said Epu. “We won’t take lightly either of the winners in the midweek minor semifinal.” Epu also praised naming sponsor Isaac Nako of Yanamundi Real Estate for supporting the team and helping youths stay away from illegal activities. “Nako has backed us for ten years, and he’ll be there for the final on Saturday,” Epu added. The Panthers now await the outcome of the midweek clash between Topa Eels and Epaii Roosters, with the winner joining them in Saturday’s grand final at Pangia Rugby League Oval.