PNG HAUSBUNG is relaunching its newly upgraded website today, Friday 26th September 2025, bringing our subscribers a new look with more features and content.Taking into account the need of our followers, the new look website boasts additional features. This includes a new look rugby league scoreboard in sports, an in-depth news section, sponsored articles, world news, and more ad spaces and banners. The new look PNG HAUSBUNG is also flexible in that it is responsive on all devices including mobile devices. The upgrade of the website is in line with PNG HAUSBUNG to give more in teams of news and sports, videos, and podcasts to our followers. It is a remarkable feat as the upgrade of the website was done in-house by staff and was built from scratch. About PNG HAUSBUNG: PNG HAUSBUNG is the news department of PNG FM Limited and was launched four years ago. PNG HAUSBUNG delivers fair, independent, and up to date news from Papua New Guinea.

The security situation in the Nipa- Kutubu district of the Southern Highlands province has returned to normal with the portion of the Highlands Highway there reopened with the intervention of security forces who were sent into curb the lawlessness in the area. This was confirmed by Police Commissioner David Manning, who said the response by the security force was swift with the roadway reopened over recent days. The situation in Nipa- Kutubu in the past few days was a scene of chaos and destruction with criminal gangs going on rampage. “The destruction of critical infrastructure, such as a major roadway, to compel government action, is an act of terrorism,” Commissioner Manning said. “The actions of this group are unacceptable and unlawful. Their action in damaging critical infrastructure risks the lives of our communities who rely upon this roadway for goods and services, as well as access to medical care.” He said terrorism and those who use violent means against the people have no place in the country, adding that it is unacceptable and it is being addressed decisively. “The prime minister made his expectations clear, to stop lawless behavior in Nipa- Kutubu, and under my direction, the RPNGC and PNGDF have achieved this outcome.” Manning used the measures available under the Counter- Terrorism Act to approve the operations to remove this threat to national security. “200 law enforcement personnel are deploying in Nipa- Kutubu and adjoining areas,” said the Police Commissioner. Manning also commended the rapid response of security personnel to restore normality to the Nipa- Kutubu region. Further information on the ongoing police operations will be provided at an appropriate time.

It has been confirmed that the much- anticipated Local Level Government (LLG) elections are set to commence this weekend right around the country. This was confirmed by the Papua New Guinea (PNG) Electoral Commissioner, Mr. Simon Sinai in a recent statement, where he stated that the LLG elections will commence on Saturday 27th September 2025. According to the revised dates, polling will start on the 27th of September. Polling will run for 14 days, that’s two weeks, ending on Friday 10th of October. Counting for the LLG elections will commence on Saturday 11th October. The counting will be for a period of 7 days, that’s one week, where it will end on the 17th of October. The LLG elections where initially scheduled for July, but due to a range of complex operational and financial challenges, it was postponed to September.

Prime Minister James Marape is expected to deliver Papua New Guinea’s (PNG’s) National Statement at the United Nation (UN) General Assembly on Friday 26th September. Prime Minister Marape is currently attending the 80th UN General Assembly in New York city in the United States of America where on Friday, he is expected to highlight the country’s commitment to global peace, sustainable development, climate change action, and the defence of multilateralism. He is further expected to participate in key bilateral meetings throughout the week, including with senior leaders from the United States, Portugal, and other partner nations. “This year’s General Assembly carries immense significance as the United Nations marks 80 years of service to humanity,” Prime Minister Marape said. “Papua New Guinea stands proudly as a member of the UN family since 1975, and we reaffirm our commitment to work with all nations towards peace, prosperity, and a safer planet.” The prime minister will also engage with Pacific Island Forum leaders, the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), and PSIDS on shared regional priorities such as climate change, ocean governance, and sustainable development. Meantime, today Wednesday 24th September, Marape is expected to contribute to the UN Secretary-General’s Special High-Level Event on Climate Action, co-hosted with the President of Brazil. He will also engage in Pacific-focused discussions through the Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS) Dialogue.

The Acting Correctional Service (CS) Commissioner, Chief Inspector Bernard Nepo was served with contempt charges today for disobeying a lawful court order issued back in August to reinstate the Deputy Commissioner Operations. According to Chief Superintendent Richard Mandui, the Executive Officer to the Office of the CS Commissioner, the contempt charges were related to a national court decision made on August 1st, 2025, regarding the unlawful termination of the CS Deputy Commissioner Operations, David Suagu. Initially, the Deputy Commissioner Operations took his termination to court, and the National Court found the termination to be unlawful and was a great breach of natural justice. “From August 1st up until now, the acting commissioner did not comply with that court order,” explained Chief Superintend Mandui. Hence, he said the contempt charges were issued today. Also, Mandui said the court whilst handing down the decision also mentioned that the Acting CS Commissioner’s term had already expired on the 4th of October 2024, living him with no authority to be in the position of the CS Commissioner as per the court ruling on the 1st of August 2025.

Kina Bank joins the rest of Papua New Guinea (PNG) mourn the passing of the late Morobe Governor, Luther Akisawa Wenge, who passed away on the 13th of September in Port Moresby city. Kina Bank Chairman Ian Clough said, “Governor Wenge was a man of principle and purpose. His legacy of service and advocacy for justice will be remembered not only in Morobe but across Papua New Guinea. “On behalf of Kina Bank, we extend our deepest sympathies to his family, the people of Morobe Province, and all who were touched by his life and leadership. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.” Governor Wenge was a distinguished leader, lawyer, and advocate for justice whose decades of public service left a lasting mark on Morobe and the nation. His leadership, spanning from 1997 to 2012 and again from 2022, was defined by his commitment to equity, development, and the rule of law. Morobe Province holds a special place in Kina Bank’s operations, being home to its second-biggest branch network. Governor Wenge’s vision and dedication to his people have contributed significantly to the growth and stability of the region. Meanwhile, the late governor will Lie- In- State at the Grand Hall of the National Parliament in a State Funeral to take place on Thursday 2nd October in Port Moresby city before the casket is flown back to his family and his people in the Morobe province.

Prime Minster James Marape has reaffirmed his government’s focus on growing the country’s economy to over a hundred-billion-kina economy in the years to come after noting an additional K50 billion injected into Papua New Guinea’s economy. Prime Minister Marape said since coming into office on the 30th of May 2019, growing the economy remains the cornerstone of his vision for the country’s long-term prosperity and independence. “From my first speech as Prime Minister in 2019, I made it clear that the focus of my leadership would be to grow the economy so that we have more resources to sustain our people,” Prime Minister Marape said. “I spoke about our journey toward becoming the richest black Christian nation, which is in line with the ambitions first laid out by Prime Minister Somare for a happy, wealthy, wise, and top 50 nation by 2050. I chose a more aggressive approach to ensure every ministry, department, and public servant prioritizes economic growth.” The Prime Minister said the rationale was simple: a bigger economy provides the resources to fund education, healthcare, infrastructure, welfare, and national development. “When I took office, the economy stood at K79 billion. Today, six years on, we are at K130 billion — a growth of over K50 billion. This has happened despite many challenges,” he noted. “Our growth rate is now consistently above 4% — higher than many other economies. Independent observers such as the IMF, World Bank, and ADB have all forecast PNG’s growth at over 4% this year.” Looking ahead, Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed his ambitious growth targets: • K200 billion economy by 2030 • K300 billion economy by 2035 • K500 billion economy by 2045 The Prime Minister outlined that growth would come from across all sectors — forestry, fisheries, agriculture, mining, petroleum, and, critically, through local content, SMEs, and wider participation of Papua New Guineans in business. He said major projects such as Wafi-Golpu, Papua LNG, P’nyang, Pasca, Frieda, and others will underpin future expansion, alongside continued emphasis on agriculture and downstream processing.

The Constitutional and Law Reform Commission (CLRC) recently launched a publication telling the story of its history and its work in the country since independence, to mark the country's 50th Independence Anniversary. The CLRC Secretary Dr. Mange Matui speaking at the CLRC Independence Ball Night on eve of Independence Day celebrations at the Holiday Inn in Port Moresby city, said the publication illustrates the story of the CLRC in the development of the country’s constitution and its work in the country since independence in 1975. “Tonight, we reflect on what independence mean to us over the past five decades and we also reflect on the role of the Constitutional and Law Reform Commission played,” said Dr. Matui. “From all its years from the Select Committee and Constitutional Planning Committee (CPC) to the Law Reform Commission, and the Constitutional Development Commission and now the Constitutional and Law Reform Commission, how the Commission has played and continues to play its role in shaping our nation.” The CLRC Secretary said the publication is not just at picture book of a collection of photographs. “It’s a mirror showing us where we have been and where we are today and where we will be going.” “It traces our lineage from the CPC to the present; it shows our constitution across the twenty- two provinces.” “It captures the faces of men and women and children whose voices have shaped our work. It records the challenges we faced and the determination with which we press on.” As PNG celebrates 50 years of independence, Dr. Matui said it is also time to look to the next 50 years and what kind of a country will the generations to come inherit. “The challenges ahead are immense, globalization, climate change, digital transformation, population growth and cultural changes that we have to face collectively as a people.” “The CLRC will continue to safeguard the vision of our founding fathers and mothers, by ensuring our laws remain relevant, just and people centered.” Dr. Matui also extended his gratitude and appreciation to those who have gone ahead to lead the work of the CLRC and making it what it is today. “As we celebrate 50 years of independence, let us not forget those who have paved the way for us. To our former commissioners, chairmen, secretaries, management team and staff, we honour you.” “We honour the CPC, the Law Reform Commission, the Constitutional Development Commission and all this who carried the torch before us. We thank the government, our partners and most importantly, the people of Papua New Guinea for walking with us. “To our current staff, I say thank you for carrying the torch with dedication and pride,” Dr. Matui passionately stated.

Mr. Luke Liriha is now the acting Managing Director of the Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) after the company’s Board of Directors suspended the Mr. Wapu Sonk as the Managing Director. Chairman Gerea Aopi said that this unanimous board resolution passed was necessary to protect the integrity of the KPHL Board and management. Mr. Aopi stated,” The Board is aware of internal issues involving the Trustee/Shareholder, former Chairman and Directors, the managing director and the new Board, activities which have ended up in the National and Supreme Courts and affected the activities and operations of the KPHL Board and management.” He noted that the new Board had taken the view that in the interest of good governance and ethics it was in the best interest of the KPHL to suspend Mr. Sonk, to bring stability and integrity to the relationship between the new board and management of KPHL. “This transparent and responsible approach protects the integrity of this flagship PNG petroleum company and also allows the managing director to address his personal issues,” said Mr. Aopi. This resolution is the most significant made by the new KPHL Board after the Supreme Court’s ruling confirming their appointment by Prime Minister James Marape, as sole shareholder of KPHL on behalf of the State. The Prime Minister’s appointment of the new KPHL Board had been challenged in the National Court by outgoing Chairman Dr Benedict Yaru on behalf of his board members. The National Court, presided by Justice Pauline Bre, on 13th August 2025, ruled that Dr Yaru had no standing as his term had expired on 2nd September 2023 – over two years ago. Dr Yaru had appealed to the Supreme Court, presided by Justice David Cannings, who on 25th August 2025 affirmed the National Court ruling of 13th August 2025. “Changes in boards when directors’ tenures expire is a standard practice in line with the Companies Act and specific KPHL legislation. This has been tested – and confirmed in both the National Court and Supreme Court in the case of the new KPHL Board,” Chairman Aopi said. “The new Board assures all stakeholder groups such as the impacted PNG LNG Project landowners with an interest in the Kroton Equity Option managed by KPHL, that we will review these arrangements and other project activities to ensure they are being carried out in line with legislation and signed agreements,” said Mr. Aopi.

An orphanage and early childhood learning center in Port Moresby city recently received learning materials all thanks the Kina Bank. Kina Bank’s Banking Assurance team brought smiles to students of Glynn’s Orphan and Early Childhood Learning Centre with school materials and stationery supplies recently. Glynn’s Orphan and Early Childhood Learning Centre, is located at Morata 2 with a student population of 157 from kindergarten to prep. School Principal Fred Solomon was truly grateful for Kina Bank’s generous support towards educating the young people and making a difference in their lives. “Your contribution not only empowers our students academically but also inspires hope and confidence in their future. Partnership like this help us create a nurturing environment where every child has the opportunity to thrive,” he said. Barbara Simeon, Senior Manager Banking Assurance at Kina Bank shared that the contribution is part of the team’s effort of giving back to the communities. She stated, “This isn’t just a Corporate Social Responsibility exercise. It is about showing real care. We are proud to support our communities in any way we can, because even the smallest act of kindness can create meaningful change. “These children are the future leaders of our country, and we’re honoured to be part of their learning journey,” she added. Seeing the joy on the children’s faces was a powerful moment for the team. “It truly warms our hearts to see them happy. It is a reminder of how much impact a simple gesture can have. We’ll continue to carry the spirit of giving—one community at a time.”

It was a spectacular closing to the Independence Day celebrations on Tuesday 16 September with the PNG50 Concert, the highlight of the day’s events of celebrations in Port Moresby city. The public were treated to concert performances from artist showcasing the evolution of local music marking the decades leading up to the present. Artists like George Telek MBE, the Rex band, Samguma band, Tambaran Culture, Pati Pots and more graced the stage. The laser and light show were also a sight to behold lighting up the night sky with their magnificent colours. The evening was topped off with a spectacular sky show of fireworks and displays with the use of drones to portray the stories of the ancient trades, and the story of PNG’s progress towards achieving independence, all displayed by drones with lights and flames, programed to create amazing formations in the sky. But perhaps the main highlight of the evening that took place was the 50th Independence Anniversary Message from King Charles III, who had his message recorded and played at the event for all Papua New Guineans to hear, with some parts of his message spoken in Tok Pisin. The King recalled witnessing the raising of the PNG flag on Independence Hill in Port Moresby city for the first time on September 16th, 1975, saying it was a moment of pride and joy for the people of Papua New Guinea as the country gained political independence. King Charles III said the celebration of PNG’s Golden Jubilee is also a time to look back on the challenges and the achievements the country has made in the last 50 years, as an independent and democratic country. “Though the journey has not always been an easy one, modern Papua New Guinea stands as a proud symbol of its citizens perseverance, resilience and commitment to democracy and unity,” said the King. “Together you have made great strides and advances in development in public health, infrastructure and diplomacy. “As a mature and an established voice in the pacific and on the word stage, I am immensely proud. Papua New Guinea is such a deeply valued and respected member of our commonwealth realm." The King also apologized for not attending in person but said he and his family are celebrating PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary in the United Kingdom. He said he instead sent his brother, the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, to represent him at the 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations. Meanwhile, the PNG50 Concert continued into the night with performances from the big-name local artists like Tarvin Touni, Sprigga Mek and Mereani Masani, rocking the night away celebrating PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary.

Ok Tedi Mining Limited (Ok Tedi) joined the rest of the country today in marking Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary. For over four decades, Ok Tedi has been a steadfast partner in the country’s development journey creating opportunities, empowering communities, and contributing to national progress. Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Kedi Ilimbit, says this year marks a momentous occasion in the history of PNG. “Fifty years of independence is a milestone achievement and is a fitting time to reflect on the courage and vision of our founding leaders, who gifted us the freedom to chart our own course as a sovereign nation and their legacy lives on in the strength, resilience, and unity of our people, said Mr. Ilimbit” He said Ok Tedi’s story is deeply intertwined with that of PNG. As a 100% PNG-owned company, Ok Tedi is a symbol of national pride and a driver of transformation and believes in the power of local ownership and remains committed to investing in the people and future of this great nation. "For more than 40 of those years, Ok Tedi has stood proudly with our nation—delivering jobs, building communities, driving development, and sharing in the dreams of our people. As a 100% PNG-owned company, we are not just a mine, we are a nation builder, and your company,” he said. He added that looking ahead, Ok Tedi reaffirms its dedication to supporting Papua New Guinea’s aspirations. "As we look to the next 50 years, our commitment remains the same: to grow with PNG, to invest in our people, and to build a future that every Papua New Guinean can be proud of," he said. “On this historic occasion, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the Government and people of PNG. May this Golden Jubilee inspire renewed hope, unity, and ambition for the next chapter of our national journey.” “Happy 50th Independence Anniversary, Papua New Guinea!”