Polling for the Usino- Bundi Open seat by election in the Madang province is expected to commence tomorrow and candidates and their supporters are being urged to conduct themselves accordingly. Madang Provincial Election Manager Mr. Sponsa Navi says it is important that the by election is free, fair and safe for everyone. “The voters themselves, be sure that you are voting for the right person and not to be forced to cast your vote. You have your own free will and constitutional right to choose your own leader, so, vote wisely,” Mr. Navi urged. The Provincial Election Manager also warned that security will be present at respective polling sites and will deal will anyone who misbehaves. He also urged everyone who are of voting age to turn up tomorrow and cast their votes. “Please, get up early, stand in line and cast your vote for your leader.” There is a total of 27 candidates contesting this by election with two former Madang Governors contesting the seat, Peter Yama and Jim Kas. Also contesting is former Open Member, Anton Yagama. The Open Seat was left vacant following the passing of the sitting Member of Parliament, Jimmy Uguro, whom his son Donald Uguro is also contesting the Seat in this by election.

The National Airport Corporation (NAC) recently experienced attacks by criminals on its contractors working on two separate airports projects in the country, something that is being strongly condemned by authorities and the business community. Air Niugini is one organization that also strongly condemns such lawless actions against the NAC contractors working on building and improving airport facilities in the country. Air Niugini Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Gary Seddon said, “These cowardly attacks are an affront to the collective efforts aimed at enhancing Papua New Guinea's air transport infrastructure." Air Niugini stands in solidarity with the NAC and all stakeholders committed to improving the country's aviation sector. The airline urges communities to support infrastructure projects that are pivotal for economic growth and connectivity. “We ask all Papua New Guineans to stand against these violent acts and work together to create a safer environment for development. Our country’s future depends on us standing together against crime,” Mr. Seddon said. “This growing violence holds back progress and development. It may force us to cut back services if we believe our passengers, crew, or aircraft are in danger.” Meanwhile according to the NAC, the first incident occurred on the evening of Thursday, 10th July, where armed criminals ambushed NAC contractor’s personnel while they were transporting a paver machine to the Gurney Airport project site in Alotau, Milne Bay province. Two Chinese nationals were attacked, with one sustaining serious injury to the head and wrist and is currently receiving treatment at the Alotau Hospital. The other incident occurred earlier in the week on the night of Sunday, 6th July at around 10pm at Hoskins Airport in West New Britain province, where a National Supervision Consultant was robbed during a violent break-in at his residence. Critical project documents and his laptop were stolen, which may affect project timelines.

Polling for the four national seats going for by election this year commenced over the weekend on Saturday 12th July as per the Papua New Guinea (PNG) Electoral Commission (EC) schedule; however, polling so far for one by election seat is being delayed. The by election polling being delayed here is for the Usino- Bundi seat in Madang province and it is due to certain issues being faced by provincial electoral office on ground. According to the Madang Provincial Election Manager Mr. Sponsa Navi, this delay was due to the access to election funds and security issues. However, he hopes those issues are resolved today or tomorrow. “The ballot papers, boxes other election materials were received a week ago; however, we have issues that need to be sorted out, like security is not mobilized and deployed to us, to help us,” said Mr. Navi. “Also, the accessibility of funds that we have already in the bank, it takes a while because of the new system we are using. So, this made us delay the polling to this Wednesday, the 16th of July.” He said initially K200, 000 was allocated for the provincial team to do training and get the team in place. “We have money but it’s just the accessibility with the bank. There is a process that we are using, it’s called Kundu Pay, but there are certain things that need to be done before we access the money. So, that is why it is delaying our process.” But the main issue he said was security for the polling teams at the polling sites in the district and he is hoping that police get their allocation of funds soon so that they can provide security on ground. There is a total of 27 candidates contesting this by election with two former Madang Governors contesting the seat like Peter Yama and Jim Kas. Also contesting is former Open Member, Anton Yagama. The Open Seat was left vacant following the passing of the sitting Member of Parliament, Jimmy Uguro, whom his son Donald Uguro is also contesting the Seat in this by election. Meanwhile, the provincial election manager is urging all candidates and eligible voters to conduct themselves accordingly during the polling period when it commences in two days’ time. The by election seats going into polling are Porgera- Paiela in Enga, Aitape- Lumi in West Sepik, Kabwum in Morobe, and Usino- Bunid in Madang.

The National Superannuation Fund (Nasfund) branch in Wewak, East Sepik province will now be operating out of a new location commencing tomorrow, Monday 14th July. Nasfund says its valued members, employers and the public can access the new office site located at the Tang Mow Plaza on level 3. This relocation marks the conclusion of Nasfund’s temporary arrangement with BSP Financial Group Limited, who kindly provided office space during this period. Nasfund’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Rajeev Sharma is grateful for this arrangement. “The Fund extends its sincere appreciation and acknowledgment to Mr. Mark Robinson, Chief Executive Officer of BSP Financial Group, as well as the banks Board, Management, and Staff for their generous support, which enabled Nasfund to continue serving its members without interruption.” The new Tang Mow Plaza office will maintain the standard operating hours of 9:00am to 3:00pm, with segmented days allocated for specific services to ensure efficient and streamlined assistance. “We welcome all members and employers to visit our new premises from Monday, 14th July 2025, and look forward to continuing to provide superannuation services to the people of East Sepik Province in Wewak town.” Initially, Nasfund established a temporary service site in Wewak town following the recent fire that severely damaged the property rented by the Fund for its branch operations. Now, it has a proper new location.

Two separate attacks on contractors working on airport project sites in the country have prompted concern from the National Airport Corporation (NAC) after contractors were attacked and robbed by armed criminals. The NAC is deeply concerned about these recent violent attacks against its project personnel and property at Gurney and Hoskins Airports respectively. “These cowardly acts are a direct threat to national development, safety, and the lives of individuals dedicated to delivering vital infrastructure projects,” said the NAC. On the evening of Thursday, 10 July 2025, armed criminals ambushed NAC contractor’s personnel while they were transporting a paver machine to the Gurney Airport project site in Alotau, Milne Bay province. Two Chinese nationals were attacked, with one sustaining serious injury to the head and wrist and is currently receiving treatment at the Alotau Hospital. Earlier in the week on the night of Sunday, 6th July 2025 at around 10pm, at Hoskins Airport in West New Britain province, where a national supervision consultant was robbed during a violent break-in at his residence. Critical project documents and his laptop were stolen, which may affect project timelines. The NAC condemns these violent and criminal acts. “We consider such attacks not only a threat to individuals but a direct obstruction to progress and service delivery for the people of Papua New Guinea. We appeal to the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC), Provincial Governments, and local communities to work together to identify and bring the perpetrators to justice. These criminals must not be allowed to derail national projects,” said the NAC. The incident at Gurney threatens to delay runway asphalting works, currently in progress, which may prolong the current aircraft downgrades. At Hoskins, the theft of documents, reports, and equipment will impact contractor progress. Such incidents, risk compromising project timelines and cost efficiency. Despite these setbacks, NAC remains committed to delivering safe, secure, and functional airports across Papua New Guinea. “We are reviewing risk mitigation measures and ensuring appropriate support for all personnel in project sites. We thank our staff, contractors, and communities for their continued resilience and support.”

Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) is now a step closer to purchasing the Misima Gold project in Milne Bay province after getting the clearance from the Independent Consumer and Competitions Commission (ICCC) to do so. OTML announced the granting of clearance from ICCC in relation to the purchase of the Misima Gold Project from Kingston Resources Limited (Kingston), marking the completion of all conditions required to fully complete the transaction. On 20 May 2025, Ok Tedi announced the purchase of the Misima Gold Project in PNG from Kingston for A$60M (~US$38M), with further contingent payments totaling up to A$35M (~US$22M). This approval satisfies all conditions for the purchase of the Misima Gold and Silver Project from Kingston, officially making it an Ok Tedi entity as of yesterday July 10th, 2025. This acquisition marks a significant milestone in the company’s Growth 2050 Strategy and reaffirming its commitment to sustainable, nationally driven resource development. “We are proud to welcome the Misima team into the Ok Tedi family,” said Ok Tedi Managing Director and CEO, Kedi Ilimbit. “This acquisition signals a bold new chapter for Ok Tedi as we expand our footprint and future-proof our business for generations to come.” The Misima Mine, which currently employs 31 people, will continue operating under their existing employment terms during a structured integration phase. “Ok Tedi is committed to ensuring a smooth transition and is working closely with employees, landowners, and local leaders to ensure the continued success of the project.” “This is more than a corporate transaction,” Mr. Ilimbit said. “It’s about PNG ownership, community partnership, and responsible growth.” The Misima Gold and Silver Project, located 625km east of Port Moresby in Milne Bay, has a current mineral resource estimate of 3.8Moz of gold and 22.1Moz of silver.

The new TISA Bank is expending its services across the country with the aim to open at least close to 20 new bank branches by 2026. TISA Bank Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Sunil Pokharel revealed this in an interview prior to the opening of the bank’s new Wewak branch in the East Sepik province on Monday 7th July. He said the opening of this branch marks that drive forward in providing the necessary banking service to customers and the over 80, 000 members of the Teachers Savings and Loans Society (TISA) across the country. “After Port Moresby, this is our second branch that we are opening. So, we’ll open at least another ten (10) or twelve (12) by the end of this year and by the first quarter of next year, we are going to have eighteen (18) branches,” said the CEO. “One of our reasons for increasing our branch network is to provide service to our unbanked communities in these areas, not only that, but to bring new banking services and products to the communities. So, we want to be very close to our communities we operate in.” Mr. Pokharel also explained that the branches will provide products specifically targeted at the needs of a particular community, so, banking products will vary from branch to branch. Like for instance with the new branch in East Sepik, Mr. Pokharel said being a province that is huge in agriculture, the banking products will, be tailored to support farmers, agricultural businesses, and SMEs in the sector apart from its normal retail customers. “So, you’ll see a lot of products that’s going to come in but at the same time, any product that we are going launch for any particular branch, will be what they need in this community or this area,” he said. Meanwhile, the CEO also revealed that TISA Bank is planning to expand its services to districts in East Sepik that are high in agricultural production like Yangoru- Saussia and Maprik districts in the near future by setting up sub- branches there. “Don’t be surprised if we decide to open a branch in these two locations in one-year time, that’s going to happen,” said the CEO revealing further the TISA Bank strategy. “Because it’s not only the branch, in fact we are to roll out agency banking most likely next week, so you’ll see that we’re going to find a couple of agents here." "I think opening a branch only in Wewak is not going to serve the purpose. So, we need to be in all the districts as possible in the next three (3) to four (4) years’ time." “So, we’re looking at the long term because our commitment is not for the short term but for the long term, and we remain committed for these reasons.”

Since its launching as a commercial bank in 2024, the new TISA Bank is quickly expanding its operation across Papua New Guinea, covering and serving its customers in all four regions made possible through its already existing Teachers Savings and Loans Society branches, and today will be the latest to open in Wewak in the East Sepik province. The new TISA Bank branch is located at a much convenient place, which is in the center of town, a change from its old location which was further outside of town where it was literally a warehouse that the Teachers Savings and Loans Society team operate out from. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="2048"] New Tisa Bank in Wewak ESP[/caption] The new building is more modern and up to date with the latest technology focused on good customer banking experience, something TISA members are looking forward to. One of those members who was very proud and vocal about the opening of TISA bank's new branch in Wewak is local woman entrepreneur Mrs. Catherine Wangimani Wangi from the Yungoru- Saussia district. She is a retired teacher who served for three decades and is proud about what TISA has done for her during the time of her career. As a member of TISA all those years, she says the Teachers Savings and Loans Society helped her a lot especially through her savings, she was able to send all her children to school to better themselves, something which she proudly said was worth it. "For TISA to become a bank now, as someone who has all the time been with Teachers Savings and Loans, I am really excited it has become a bank," she said. Mrs. Wangi also expressed gratitude for TISA Bank's SME Loan product, where her loan was approved, enabling her to expand on her own business by purchasing a new bus where she will convert into a Public Motor Vehicle (PMV) to service the 3- 10 route, which is from Wewak to Maprik district and back again. Meanwhile, the new TISA Bank branch opening brings in a new banking service to town and will serve thousands of its members and customers in the East Sepik province.

The new TISA Bank branch in Wewak, East Sepik province opened its door to customers this morning much to the excitement of public and its Savings and Loans Society members, most of whom are teachers. Opening the new TISA Bank branch was East Sepik Governor Allan Bird, who expressed great gratitude to TISA management and board for choosing his province for the new branch. Pointing to the increase in agriculture in East Sepik, he said the newly established commercial bank must take the opportunity to gain a foothold in promoting agriculture the province by tapping in the sector through engaging with local farmers and industries on the ground through its banking products. In terms of economic growth in the province, he said the provincial government continues to support the private sector to promote business and investments. This is something the good governor said that they are keen on doing, be it in agriculture or other sectors. That's the reason why the new bank branch is been well accepted. He said the provincial government is working closely with landowners so to acquire land in order to expand areas in which investments can be made in, where he said was part of the overall goal to expand the town and place of doing business. In addition to this, a planned new solar project along with a new water treatment facility should enable a conducive environment for investments and for businesses to prosper. Touching again on agriculture, he said TISA Bank's investment in Wewak is timely. "In going forward, I know you got a small branch here, I would encourage you to figure out how you can get into Maprik and Angoram," said Governor Bird. "While a lot of our produce are accessing Maprik, we've invested a lot in Angoram and Angoram is the biggest district. So, over the next couple of years, you're going to see significant production coming from Angoram. "So, there's opportunity for growth there and all across the region and I'm sure you can see that, and that's why you're here." He then thanked TISA for bringing additional banking service to the people of East Sepik and for choosing Wewak as the first step outside of Port Moresby city for its second branch.

After having to endure rocket strikes from Iran, the Papua New Guinea (PNG) citizens along with diplomats who were in Israel have finally returned home safe and sound. The National Government announced the safe return of the group, including diplomatic personnel and pilgrims amidst the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. PNG’s Ambassador to Israel, His Excellency (H.E.) Henry Mokono, along with his family and Embassy staff, arrived on the 29th and 30th of June respectively. Secretary for the Department of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Elias Wohengu welcomed them home. “Our nation stood united in prayer, not only for the safe return of our diplomats and citizens, but also for the people of Israel. We thank everyone who upheld our mission and people in their thoughts and players during this difficult time,” he said. Meanwhile, the PNG Embassy in Jerusalem will remain temporarily closed while the Department of Foreign Affairs remain vigilant and continue to monitor developments closely and maintaining contact with international partners and stakeholders on the ground. Secretary Wohengu reaffirmed PNG’s position on this matter, stating, “As a Christian nation, we stand firmly for peace, for dialogue, and for the protection of human life. We pray for stability in the region and remain hopeful that a peaceful resolution will be found through diplomatic means.”

The Minister for International Trade and Investment, Richard Maru fully endorses a proposed power project in the Southern Highlands province, saying it will support economic development, including the development of Special Economic Zones in the Highlands Region of Papua New Guinea (PNG). Minister Maru endorses the proposed 90MW Kaugel Hydropower Project as a transformational project of highest national priority. The proposed K2.5billion project will take 4 years to construct. “This is a transformational project. We have a very high demand for cheaper, clean, and reliable electricity in our country, not only for our people, but importantly to drive economic growth,” said Minister Maru. “The Kaugel Hydropower Project is precisely the scale and quality of foreign direct investment PNG must prioritize. This hydro can provide long-term electricity to Porgera Mine, the proposed Baiyer and Ruti SEZ, Mt. Hagen City and parts of Southern Highlands Province,” said Minister Maru. Minister Maru said Kaugel Hydropower Project aligned with the country’s national goals for rural electrification, industrial development, and reducing carbon emissions. The project will also ease the power issues faced by people in the Highlands Region. Minister Maru then thanked the Managing Director (MD) of Kaugel Hydro Limited, Mr. Karl Yalo and his team for the tireless efforts so far. “We wish them every success to secure anchor customers to make the project bankable, and we also hope that they can secure license from the National Energy Authority,” said Minister Maru. Minister Maru further added: “My Ministry and Department stands ready to champion this potential high impact and transformational project to demonstrate the unwavering commitment of the Marape-Rosso Government to renewable energy transition, equitable distribution of benefits, and setting the foundations for a better and brighter future for our people and country as we celebrate 50 years of independence and chart our way forward for the next 50 years.”

The Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) of Papua New Guinea (PNG) is hosting the 45th Commonwealth Association of Tax Administration (CATA) Heads and Technical Meetings next week in Port Moresby city to talk about everything to do with tax. This prestigious international conference will bring together senior tax administrators from 47 Commonwealth nations, representing over 2 billion citizens worldwide. The event marks a significant milestone for Papua New Guinea as it hosts one of the world's largest gatherings of tax administration professionals. According to the IRC, this high-level meeting brings together tax administration and leaders and technical experts from across Commonwealth countries to discuss tax policy, administration reforms, digital transformation, and capacity building initiatives to enhance revenue mobilization for development. “This meeting demonstrates PNG’s commitment to international cooperation in tax administration and reform,” said Sam Koim, the IRC Commissioner General. “We are honored to host our Commonwealth counterparts to share experience, challenges, and innovations to improve tax compliance and support development.” The conference will officially open on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, with a ceremony presided over by His Excellency Sir Bob Dadae, Governor General of Papua New Guinea Powes Parkop, MP, Governor of National Capital District Ian Ling Stuckey, MP, Minister for Treasury and Thomas Opa, MP, Minister for Finance.