The Minister for International Trade and Investment, Richard Maru, recently provided an update on Petroleum Park Holdings Limited (PPHL), which is a subsidiary of the Konebada Petroleum Park Authority (KPPA). He emphasized concerns regarding the improper management and operations of the company by its key officers. PPHL was incorporated under the Companies Act 1997, in accordance with Sections 5 and 8 of the Konebada Petroleum Park Authority Act 2008 (as amended). Minister Maru stated that, under normal circumstances, KPPA would be the sole owner of PPHL, and those appointed to hold shares in PPHL would do so in trust for KPPA based on a Trust Deed. However, during the tenure of Mr. Donald Valu as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of KPPA, both he and Mr. Joel Oli were appointed as the inaugural directors and shareholders of PPHL. Later, Mr. Samuel Pepena was appointed as a director and shareholder after Mr. Oli's removal. Currently, the directors and shareholders of PPHL are Mr. Valu and Mr. Pepena. Minister Maru highlighted that the documents obtained from the Investment Promotion Authority revealed several important points: “There is no Trust Deed in place that legally empowers Mr. Donald Valu and Mr. Samuel Pepena to hold the shares of PPHL in trust for KPPA. Mr. Valu and Mr. Pepena hold the shares of PPHL as owners, not in trust for KPPA. He also emphasized that the Constitution of PPHL was drafted in a manner that strips KPPA of its powers and control over PPHL. “According to Clause 3.3 (a) of the Constitution, KPPA does not have any power, or right automatic or otherwise to direct, control, meddle, or interfere in the conduct of the business affairs of PPHL, including the removal or appointment of directors or shareholders of PPHL, altering the Constitution, dealing with the assets and undertakings of PPHL, or otherwise exerting any control or external management of PPHL,” he said. Minister Maru added that the Companies Act 1997 allows a company to have a constitution that governs its administration and operations. PPHL has such a constitution, but it effectively insulates the current directors and shareholders from any supervision and control from its owner, KPPA. “Based on legal advice received, there are no options under the Konebada Petroleum Park Authority Act 2008 (as amended), the Companies Act 1997, and the Constitution of PPHL for KPPA to reclaim its subsidiary, PPHL. “Thus, the only recourse is to pursue legal action to recover PPHL from the hands of the current directors and shareholders. I have instructed the KPPA Board, chaired by Mr. Martin Kombri, to take immediate action in this regard,” Minister Maru concluded.

The police have arrested several street vendors following a violent incident that occurred on Monday, January 13th. This confrontation involved theft, threats, and violence directed at the Port Moresby City Watch (PCW) officers, who were performing their duties to maintain order and public safety by removing illegal street vendors. Currently, three individuals are hospitalized due to injuries sustained during the altercation, while five others have been detained and are assisting police with the investigation. Two suspects are being held at the Gordon’s police station, and three at the Hohola police station. Around 11:52 AM, PCW officers apprehended a thief who had stolen from a couple at Meat Haus. The situation escalated rapidly when the thief's associates, who were illegal street vendors, threatened and attacked the officers with weapons, including bush knives, small knives, and stones. The altercation intensified as the vendors chased the retreating PCW officers, leading to a larger confrontation that extended from Meat Haus to the front of the Lands Office. Despite being unarmed, the officers regrouped and managed to detain three individuals. Additional police teams later intervened, resulting in the arrest of more suspects. This incident highlights the challenges faced by city enforcement officers when dealing with aggressive and organized illegal vendors. National Capital District (NCD) Governor Powes Parkop has emphasized the importance of maintaining public safety and has called for stronger measures to protect enforcement personnel while addressing the root causes of illegal street vending. “The safety of our officers and the public is paramount. We must work together to ensure that law enforcement can operate without fear or interference while curbing illegal activities,” Governor Parkop stated. The National Capital District Commission (NCDC) will continue to enhance collaboration between PCW and police to prevent and address future incidents. They will also review security protocols for PCW officers and strengthen efforts to regulate illegal vending activities while supporting sustainable livelihoods for informal vendors. The NCDC remains committed to transforming Port Moresby into a safe, modern, and inclusive city, ensuring that such incidents do not undermine the progress already achieved.

Elizabeth Tandoa, the headmistress of Gerehu Secondary School in Port Moresby, has stated that she will not tolerate any bribery in the registration of students for the 2025 academic year. She emphasized that the school will strictly follow established procedures to ensure transparency and accountability while providing a high standard of quality education for the students. Ms. Tandoa directed this message to the parents and guardians of the Grade Eight and Ten students who last attended Gerehu Secondary and scored low grades and are not selected to continue to Grade nine and eleven. She urged them to consider enrolling their children in Flexible, Open, and Distance Education (FODE) schools to help upgrade their failed courses. She strongly discouraged bribery, commonly known as "backdoor dealings," where parents and guardians offer cash to school staff to secure a place for their children. “As long as I’m at the school, I won’t allow this practice," she stressed. "When we talk about quality education, our actions should also reflect that. I want to appeal to the parents and guardians whose children have not performed well. Please do not resort to paying for their placement or bribing teachers or any staff at the school to secure a spot for your child. The right thing to do is to take your child to FODE and register them, as they offer the same courses that regular schools provide." “We also have the Directorate of Open & Distance Learning (DODL) at Gerehu Secondary where you can register. After registering at DODL or FODE, if the upgraded marks are good, students can request admission back to Grades 9 and 11 after upgrading." She further stressed that it is encouraging for administrators to support students who did not do well in Grade 10 but have taken initiative to upgrade their marks. Such students should be given priority and opportunities. “However, using money to secure a place in Grade 11 is not the right approach. I want to appeal to parents and guardians once again: please do not come to the school with money looking for spaces. If I receive any reports of such behavior, I will not hesitate to report them to the highest authority and have them charged. “We want Gerehu to change, and we strive to improve its reputation. Last year, we began this journey, with students and teachers working together to enhance the image of Gerehu Secondary. "We will continue to raise the bar in terms of academic results. If other schools can achieve success, so can Gerehu; it just requires strong leadership, commitment, and sacrifice from teachers,” she concluded.

Local female artist Ronilla Kosi, known by her stage name Moho'Nilla, will host her major fundraising event next month, the Moho’Nilla Charity Compilation Concert, to raise funds to support and improve maternal health in the rural areas of Eastern Highlands Province. The 34 years old, who was nominated for the Female Artist of the Year category at the Yumi FM PNG Music Awards in 2020 for her song titled "Goroka", began singing at the age of 3 and officially entered the music industry at 17. So far, she has produced 11 songs available on all major music platforms. Ms. Kosi is not only a talented songwriter and singer but is also committed to using her talent for the benefit of others. She strives to share love and support with those in need, finding happiness in helping others. She emphasized that the primary reason for her charity drive is to support and improve maternal health in the rural areas of Ungai-Bena District by establishing the Sigerehi Bel Mama Wait Karim Haus. This facility will provide a safe and accessible space for expectant mothers to stay close to healthcare services before delivery. Currently, many pregnant women in the region face significant challenges, including long and often hazardous journeys to medical facilities, which endangers both their lives and those of their babies. By creating a dedicated space for these mothers, the project seeks to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates, ensuring that more women have access to timely and essential medical care. This charity drive is crucial for raising the funds necessary to complete the construction and operational setup of the facility, ultimately contributing to the overall health and well-being of the community. She highlighted that for her first project, she sold branded hoodies as a fundraiser in October 2023 to support breast cancer fighter Ms. Samantha Sasama, who needed chemotherapy treatment in the Philippines in 2024. Kosi sold hoodies to individuals and presented Ms. Sasama with K1001.00 in cash. In her second project, she is constructing the Sigerehi Bel Mama Wait Karim Haus, with a total project cost of K22,136.20. "We hosted our first charity concert on the evening of August 31, 2024, at New Channel Inn in Goroka, targeting individuals and businesses, and we still need funds to complete the project. With the assistance of local businesses that purchased tables, we have raised K8550.00. Therefore, we are organizing a second charity concert this year," Kosi said. The funds raised at the upcoming event will be used to purchase building materials to extend the Bel Mama House at Siregehe Health Centre, Upper Bena, in Ungai-Bena District. “I am reaching out with a heartfelt appeal to individuals and businesses to join us in this special fundraising effort for the Sigerehi Bel Mama Wait Karim Haus. This charity concert is not just an event; it is a beacon of hope for expectant mothers in the rural areas of Ungai-Bena District, ensuring they receive the care and support they need. “As a girl, I dreamed of using my singing talent to make a difference in the lives of those in need. Today, with the grace of the Lord and the unwavering support of the Moho'Nilla Charity Working Committee, Wan Groove Band, and our generous contributors, that dream is becoming a reality. This project is a testament to the power of community and compassion.” “We invite you to purchase a table for this meaningful event, held at the Steak Haus (Hotel Phoenix) on February 15th, 2025. Your participation will not only grant you access to a captivating performance but will also directly contribute to a cause that saves lives. Let’s come together to make a difference. Every contribution brings us closer to completing this vital project and uplifting the lives of many,” she said. Sponsors and attendees of Moho’Nilla’s Charity Compilation Concert should be informed of the following: Table (for 6 people): K800, Valentine’s Special (for 2 people): K500, Single Ticket: K100 (Includes a two-course meal and one complimentary wine bottle per table), Moho'Nilla Music Merchandise will also be sold.

There has been a concerning trend observed on the main highways and within the cities where youths are patching potholes and extorting money from drivers, something that the police say is illegal. In the Central province and the National Capital District (NCD), police are issuing warnings to those involved in these practices to stop and urge the public to report such incidents immediately, so that law enforcement can respond quickly and address the situation. Police have made it clear that extorting money from the traveling public is an offense that should be reported; therefore, citizens are encouraged to take photos of the individuals engaging in this activity and share them with the police. These photos will help law enforcement monitor if the same group is operating in different locations or if new individuals have emerged. The police emphasized the importance of observing and reporting these incidents to ensure that those responsible are arrested and charged appropriately. If anyone feels harassed at these locations, they must report it to the nearest police station for record-keeping. In addition, police discourage the public from paying these individuals, as that would encourage them to continue doing it.

The SP PNG Hunters announce with both pride and heartfelt gratitude the departure of long-serving player turned coach Wartovo Puara Jnr, who has made the decision to return to the Agmark Gurias for the upcoming season. Wartovo’s decision was made with the best interests of his family at heart, reflecting his commitment to both his career and personal responsibilities. Puara, a stalwart of the PNG Hunters since their inception in 2014, has been an integral part of the team’s journey in the Queensland Cup competition to winning a premiership in 2017. Known for his exceptional skill, leadership, and sportsmanship, he has been a true ambassador of rugby league in Papua New Guinea, inspiring countless young players to follow in his footsteps. Puara said, “This was not an easy decision for me. The Hunters have been my family for over a decade, and I am proud of everything we’ve achieved together. “However, after much thought and discussions with my family, I have decided to join the Agmark Gurias to better support my loved ones and continue supporting the sport I love closer to home.” Hunters head coach Paul Aiton praised Puara’s contributions to the team, stating, “Wartovo’s impact on the Hunters cannot be overstated. “He’s been a key figure both on and off the field, and his legacy will forever be part of our history. “While we are sad to see him go, we fully support his decision and wish him and his family all the best,” Aiton said. The PNG Hunters thank Wartovo Puara Jnr for his unwavering dedication and extraordinary contributions over the years and wish him every success in the next chapter of his career and are confident he will excel with the Agmark Gurias. Meanwhile, the Agmark Gurias have welcomed Puara’s arrival with enthusiasm, acknowledging his immense talent and experience. As one of the premier rugby league clubs in Papua New Guinea, the Gurias are excited about what Puara will bring to their squad.

The National Government will work with its respective national agencies, the British High Commission, and United Kingdom (UK) authorities, to have Papua New Guinean international rugby league player, Keven Appo, repatriated to the UK to answer to rape and assault charges. That is the stern word from the Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko in a press statement yesterday, stating that he had received a brief confirming the charges against the 25-year-old, and of how he fled the country after being charged by the Bradford Magistrate’s Court. “This Government will not tolerate or harbor any citizen who has been proven to have committed a crime and charged in another country and has returned home to hide from the consequences of their actions," said the minister. “On the same token, we condemn all acts of violence against women. We condemn this at the highest order - this is unacceptable, and this will not be tolerated by this government." “We will work with the respective UK authorities through the British High Commission, upon their submission of an extradition request, and ensure this is expedited through the respective and appropriate national agencies." Minister Tkatchenko emphasized that it is an unfortunate incident that has tarnished the good work that PNG has done, and the sporting relationships that have been forged, especially with the UK. “We have around 30 young Papua New Guineans currently signed to playing careers in the UK Super League Competition, are doing exceptionally well with these clubs and in these communities, and the actions of one person could bring the reputation of these players as Papua New Guineans into question. “Our legends of the game, Stanley Gene, Makali Aizue and so many other men have built this reputation over time, and it only takes one bad incident to bring this down,” Minister Tkatchenko said. He reiterated that an extradition request is yet to be received, however, he has had initial conversations with British High Commissioner Her Excellency, Anne Macro, where he expressed the government’s position to work with the high commission on the matter, for the right outcome by law. “Once we have received the extradition request, we will work with the appropriate authorities to ensure that Mr. Appo faces these charges against him, in the UK," Minister Tkatchenko said.

The recent landslide at Ehi Village, bordering Okapa, Lufa, and Henganofi districts of Eastern Highlands Province, has caused significant disruptions to the economic activities and daily lives of the residents in the area. The landslide has blocked a major road that serves as an economic hub for Okapa District, cutting off essential services for the bulk of the population. Despite the urgency of the situation, the authorities have been slow to respond, leaving the residents stranded and in need of immediate assistance. The former principal of Tarabo Lutheran High School, Mr. Johnboy Rakfa has raised a grave concern of the situation and calls on the authorities responsible for immediate action to clear the blockage. He emphasized that the road affected by the landslide is a crucial link for the economic activities of Okapa District, connecting the residents to markets, healthcare facilities, and other essential services. The closure of the road has disrupted the flow of goods and services, leading to shortages and price hikes in the area, adding that the economic impact of the landslide is significant, affecting the livelihoods of thousands of residents who rely on the road for their daily needs. “The landslide has cut off essential services for the bulk of the population in Okapa District, leaving them without access to healthcare, education, and other basic amenities. The residents are facing hardships due to the lack of transportation and communication, with many unable to travel to nearby towns for medical treatment or to sell their produce. The situation is dire, and immediate action is needed to clear the landslide and restore normalcy to the area,” Mr. Johnboy said. He added that despite the urgency of the situation, the authorities have been slow to respond to the landslide at Ehi Village. The residents have been waiting for weeks for the relevant agencies to clear the road and restore access to the affected areas. The delay in response has only exacerbated the hardships faced by the residents, who are growing increasingly frustrated with the lack of action from the authorities. “In light of the urgent situation at Ehi Village, we call upon the office of the Governor, MP for Okapa, MP for Henganofi, and MP for Lufa District to intervene and expedite the clearance of the landslide. “The road serves more than 100,000 residents in the area, and their well-being is at stake. It's important that the authorities take immediate action to negotiate with the Ehi communities and clear the landslide to ease the road problems and restore normalcy to the affected areas."

The warring clans of the Purosa Community in Okapa District, Eastern Highlands Province, held a peace and reconciliation program on Monday, January 6th after a long period of conflict. This initiative aims to restore peace and harmony following two years of conflict from 2021 to 2022, which resulted in the tragic loss of 13 young lives, as well as the destruction of homes, gardens, and other properties. After two attempts to establish a ceasefire by community leaders from around the country, the Purosa community is now moving towards reconciliation in an effort to restore unity and peace among its members. Attendees at the program included local elites, representatives from the two warring factions, the Okapa District Administrator, police officers, church leaders from various denominations, and residents from surrounding communities. They all gathered at the Purosa Primary School to witness this significant event. The ceremony featured the burning of firearms, bows and arrows, and other weapons used during the conflicts, as the two opposing parties came together to confess their wrongdoings and promise to avoid future violence in front of the community and key government officials. During the event, James Ogia, a prominent member of the Purosa community, remarked that despite the loss of immediate family members due to the conflict, the community’s elites united in the cities, towns, and districts to foster the peace and reconciliation ceremony. “We remained neutral and united and did not fund guns and bullets like others. The Purosa Peace and Reconciliation Ceremony serves as a reminder that in tribal conflicts, the real winners are guns, bows, arrows, and bush knives. No one emerges victorious from tribal fighting,” Mr. Ogia said. Dr. Lincoln Menda, representing the Purosa elites and the broader community, expressed gratitude for the efforts made by various parties to quell the violence. “I thank the Okapa police personnel, Acting District Administrator Mr. Dick Penai, and the CEO of the Kainantu District Development Authority for their courageous actions in engaging with the community to halt the conflict at its peak,” he said. Dr. Menda also acknowledged the dedication of Purosa elites in organizing this important event, describing it as a timely and appropriate New Year gift for the victims from both communities. He expressed hope that this official peace and reconciliation effort will be enduring, allowing the people to move forward, live in peace and harmony, and focus on initiatives that will enhance their livelihoods in a safe and supportive environment. He noted that this program would mark a historic milestone for the community.

Obura-Wonenara Local Member of Parliament (MP) and Agriculture Minister John Boito has emphasized that law-and-order remains a top priority for his district in the Eastern Highlands Province. He made this statement on Friday, January 3rd, 2025, during a ceremony officiating the handover of a new prison van to Bundaira Jail. Minister Boito stated that the initiative aligns with the Marape-Rosso Government's focus on bolstering the law and justice sector as Papua New Guinea celebrates 50 years of independence. The handover event was attended by senior officials from the Correctional Service (CS), warders, inmates, and members of the local community. In addition to the provision of the prison van, the Obura-Wonenara District Development Authority (DDA) is also contributing to the development of Bundaira Jail through projects such as the construction of a perimeter fence and the installation of a water supply system. “This vehicle has been purchased using funds from the people of Obura-Wonenara, whom I represent. I hope that the Kainantu, Okapa, and Henganofi DDAs will also support Bundaira Jail, as their people are housed here as well,” Minister Boito said. Highlighting the importance of maintaining law-and-order, Minister Boito underscored that the district's development efforts—including road construction, educational infrastructure, and coffee production—will be in vain if law-and-order issues are not addressed. “Law-and-order is a priority for Obura-Wonenara. Despite the fact that we are building roads throughout our district, constructing classrooms, and fostering an environment for increased coffee production, all these efforts will amount to nothing if we neglect law-and-order,” he said. Minister Boito further elaborated on the district's ongoing commitment to enhancing security. “We are purchasing police vehicles for both Obura-Wonenara and neighboring Kainantu using funds from our district. These funds have also been used to bring water supply to Bundaira, construct a perimeter fence, and now provide this new prison van.” While acknowledging staffing challenges at Bundaira Jail, Minister Boito noted that addressing manpower issues is beyond his jurisdiction. The Minister also took the opportunity to express his gratitude to the landowners who provided land for the establishment of Bundaira Jail. He urged the Correctional Service to prioritize awarding contracts to these landowners as part of ongoing development projects. “The National Government is increasing funding to the law and justice sector, which means we can expect further developments at Bundaira Jail. I encourage the Correctional Service to involve landowners in these developments,” he said. Minister Boito concluded by outlining future plans to introduce agricultural initiatives at Bundaira Jail. “Our Obura-Wonenara DDA has plans to purchase a tractor to help plough the land within the jail. This will enable inmates to engage in farming activities, growing vegetables such as cabbages and sweet potatoes to supplement their diet. More importantly, inmates will acquire valuable agricultural skills that they can utilize upon their release.” The handover of the prison van marks another step in the district's ongoing efforts to enhance the capacity of Bundaira Jail and improve the overall law-and-order situation in the region.

The people of Obura-Wonenara District in Eastern Highlands Province recently celebrated a historic milestone with the completion of the Andadara Road, a transformative infrastructure project spearheaded by John Boito, the local Member of Parliament for Obura-Wonenara and Minister for Agriculture. The new road connects previously isolated communities in the rugged Eastern Highlands to vital service hubs like Aiyura and Kainantu, ending decades of struggle and inaccessibility. The completion of the Andadara Road is part of Minister Boito’s vision to modernize the district through infrastructure development, in alignment with the Marape-Rosso government’s pledge to connect all rural villages by 2025, a key target as Papua New Guinea (PNG) approaches its 50th Independence anniversary. During a site visit, Minister Boito addressed the people of Obura Wanenara, stating that this road is a game-changer for his people. “It bridges the gap between isolation and opportunity, unlocking access to markets, education, healthcare, and jobs. Today marks the beginning of a brighter future for Andadara and the entire district.” For over 50 years, the people of Andadara have faced immense challenges, with farmers trekking for days to transport coffee and fresh produce to markets and families struggling to access healthcare and education services. Funded under the District Services Improvement Program (DSIP), the Andadara Road project utilized part of the K10 million infrastructure budget allocated for development in the district. The construction was undertaken by Kopen Construction Company, a Kainantu-based firm. The firm completed the road to high standards, earning praise for its efficiency and quality. The Andadara Road now connects Wards 11, 12, and 13 in the Tairora-Gadsup Local Level Government (LLG), opening up access to essential services and revitalizing several coffee plantations. Previously neglected due to poor road access, these plantations are being restored by local landowners and are expected to boost the district’s economy significantly. Minister Boito said, “This road not only improves transportation but also creates jobs and revitalizes agriculture. By connecting our farmers to markets, we are helping them turn their hard work into income. This is how we create opportunities and lift our people’s livelihoods.” The Andadara Road is part of a broader strategy to expand road networks throughout the district, with the goal of creating jobs through agriculture, enhancing foreign exchange earnings, and improving access to critical services. “With better roads, our farmers can transport produce efficiently, children can attend school, and families can access healthcare. This is the essence of development, bringing services to the people who need them most,” Minister Boito added. He also stressed the importance of aligning infrastructure development with the national government’s vision to create one million jobs by 2030 and grow the economy to K200 billion. “When Prime Minister James Marape talks about creating one million jobs by 2030, it doesn’t just mean 8 am to 4:06 pm or 7 am to 5 pm office jobs. “It’s about creating opportunities for our people to work their land, access markets, and build livelihoods. If every MP in their respective electorates focuses on opening up road access to markets, we are indirectly creating jobs and meeting the government’s vision. “Let us work together to achieve this. The Andadara Road is not just a piece of infrastructure; it is a lifeline, a connection to hope, and a promise for the future. Together, we can transform our communities." Minister concluded.

The Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) of Papua New Guinea (PNG) collected K17.3 million in tax this year, 2024. This was announced by the Commissioner General (CG) for IRC Mr. Sam Koim, noting that this achievement marks a significant milestone for the nation and the institution, as it celebrates its 65th anniversary. At the 65th Anniversary celebrations recently, Mr. Koim also acknowledged everyone’s effort contributed towards the success and the progress of the IRC. “Such remarkable progress would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of our staff, both past and present. Your dedication to fostering compliance, integrity, and innovation in revenue collection has been the cornerstone of our success. “To our partners—taxpayers, businesses, government agencies, and international organizations—your collaboration and trust have been indispensable in navigating challenges, implementing reforms, and achieving significant milestones. “This momentous occasion is not merely a reflection of the passage of time but a profound testament to the unwavering commitment, resilience, and evolution of an institution that has played a pivotal role in shaping our nation’s progress,” Koim said. He emphasized that for 65 years, the IRC has been the backbone of PNG’s revenue generation, enabling the delivery of essential government services and fueling national development. From its humble beginnings in 1959, signified by the Income Tax Act 1959 which is still in use today, the IRC has evolved into a dynamic and forward-looking tax administration, embracing technological advancements and global best practices to adapt to the demands of an ever-changing economic landscape. “Reflecting on our history, we started by collecting taxes in pounds, transitioned to Australian Dollars, and finally settled on Kina in 1975, signifying Papua New Guinea’s journey toward political and economic independence. “It is a privilege for me to serve as the seventh CG in IRC’s seventh decade. I am proud to announce that in the last five years of my tenure, we have generated over K65 billion in tax revenues, a fitting achievement to mark our 65th anniversary. “This year, despite the government increasing our revenue target by a staggering 28%, we successfully met the target. Looking ahead, we are challenged by an even higher target of K19.4 billion for 2025, representing a 14% increase from this year. However, I am confident that with our combined efforts, we will rise to meet this challenge. At IRC, our recurring theme for each year has been one word – “productivity.” “As we look to the future, the IRC remains steadfast in its vision of not only becoming the best run public sector organization in PNG, but a world-class tax administration. It is not impossible, of course it is possible because I believe in our potential,” Koim concluded.