Recent reports of law-and-order issues like the destruction of a bridge in Porgera Paiela in Enga province allegedly by supporters of a by election candidate and the attacks on the public in Port Moresby city last evening after the PNG Story celebrations, highlights the need for a serious approach to curbing the increase in crime in the country. Earlier during the week, the Opposition team held an important press conference at the Dream Inn in Port Moresby city and these very issues in law and order were raised among other things that they say are not being fully addressed by the National Government, especially when we are about to mark the 50th Independence Anniversary. Opposition Leader, Douglas Tomuriesa plainly stated that it is time the government put down its foot and fully address this serious matter that is hindering service delivery, development and impacting the communities who have had to deal with law-and-order issues. “We have seen killing after killing almost every day, you cannot deny it. Our women have been victimized; our older people have been bullied everywhere in this country,” said the Opposition Leader. “You can see that what’s happening in the country is beginning to become very sickening and it clearly tells us that our country can be regarded as a sick nation because the people don’t respect the rule of law, and when you don’t respect the rule of law, how can you respect other forms of development in this nation?" Mr. Tomuriesa said the country is going through a lot of struggles. “We are not only financially and economically struggling, we are not only struggling with the lack of infrastructure development in this country, but we’ve also gone to the point that social standards a beginning to be very low.” “I look at us turning 50 in the next couple of months and what is there for us to celebrate for this 50-years jubilee celebration?” he questioned. “Are our people going to go out there and celebrate 50th independence anniversary freely? Are our people going to go out there and celebrate knowing that law and order issues are a thing of the past or are our people going to go out there and find themselves defending themselves, trying to protect their families, and protect their communities at the same time celebrating 50 years of independence.” He stated as well that the idea of seeking assistant from PNG’s bilateral partners in providing police assistance to curbing the increase crime is viable, supporting the continuous call from Governor for Enga Sir Peter Ipatas for foreign assistance. Tomuriesa said if PNG cannot handle this law-and-order matter, it is time for the National Government to admit that it is unable to handle it and call for foreign assistance.

The seventy (70) per cent (%) Motor Vehicle Insurance Limited (MVIL) shares in BSP sold by the State was purchased by the Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC), a Papua New Guinean buyer and not a foreign investor as speculated following the announcement recently. This was revealed by the Minister for State Enterprises, William Duma this week, putting it out there for the public and business community to know and easing some concerns that were raised regarding the future of the MVIL and its ownership. “Ownership of these shares in BSP remains within our country, giving the opportunity for everyday Papua New Guineans to own part of BSP,” stated the minister. “The sale has provided much needed funding to enhance State Owned Enterprise as part of reforms to modernize technology and service delivery without having to rely upon allocations form the national budget and expensive borrowings from banks requesting State guarantees. More specifically, more of the proceeds of the sale will be used to invest in improving the reliability and efficiency of services provided by PNG Power Ltd and Water PNG Ltd mainly in Port Moresby and Lae.” He went on to say that decision of the National Government is timely. “This decision is properly timed and grounded in economic prudence. It further takes into consideration the investment principles in KCH (Kumul Consolidated Holdings) Strategic Asset Allocation in terms of exposure and the Marape- Rosso Government’s vision to re- invest in the infrastructure asset stock of the country towards doubling GDP over the next 10 years.” However, the Opposition on the other hand is calling this transaction illegal. The Member for Sine- sine Yongomugl and Opposition member, Kerenga Kua, explained that this purchase should not be the case because the MVIL should not be classified as a State-owned Enterprise, giving the State authority to do so with the sale of shares. “Very important point, we must understand that MVIL is not a State-owned Enterprise (SOE). MVIL is a Trust company,” stressed the MP. “The government can never act like a shareholder which it has been doing right up to now. When you go through the law, you will find out that the government owned enterprises are those companies where the initial operating capital is paid for by the government. That is the definition of a state- owned enterprise.” In the case of the MVIL, Mr. Kua said it came from a statutory organization called the Motor Vehicle Insurance Trust (MVIT). “It was a trust entity and the fund in that rust was not contributed by the government, but by the motor vehicle owners at that time, way back in the seventies (70s)." "When the MVIT started, the contributing start-up capital was paid for by the motor vehicle owners at that time." “That insurance premium was collected and that was converted into operating capital and every year, all insurance premiums, has been paid into that pool that the trust has been operating on.” He said all that changed in 2010 when NVIT merged with BSP when all the trust money went into BSP. However, the now MVIL still remains as a trust company and still gets new contributions from motor vehicle owners. “It continues to be a trust company. At no point ever did the government contribute to the start-up capital. That what makes the big difference.” He claims the government has been illegally getting dividends and has been acting like a shareholder too, making decisions about the investments of MVIL, which is not an SOE. Meanwhile, the Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) yesterday announced that the Group has increased its shareholdings in Bank South Pacific Financial Group Limited (BSP) by acquiring a large portion of the bank’s shares that were on offer to the public by the MVIL. MRDC Managing Director Mr. Augustine Mano confirmed the purchase of 70 per cent of the shares sold by MVIL through the Port Moresby Stock Exchange. As a result of this acquisition, an incremental boost in MRDC Group’s shareholding in BSP from 13 per cent to 15 per cent underscores landowner companies expanding position, making it the second largest shareholder after Kumul Consolidated Holdings.

Passengers and crew members on board an Air Niugini international flight into Port Moresby city this morning, are all safe and accounted for after the aircraft experienced a difficulty whilst landing at the Jackson International Airport. Air Niugini confirms this, stating that flight PX011 from Manila to Port Moresby landed safely at 08:25 this morning. Shortly after touchdown, one of the aircraft’s tyres deflated, and the aircraft came to a controlled stop on the runway. All passengers and crew members remained safe and on board throughout the response. According to Air Niugini, after assessment and consultation with the flight crew and engineering team, it was determined that a tyre change on the runway would be the most efficient course of action. The tyre was successfully replaced, and the aircraft was towed to the international terminal at 10:08. During this time, arriving and departing flights into Port Moresby were limited, and inbound aircraft were diverted to Lae city. The runway has since been cleared and operations have resumed. "We sincerely apologize to the traveling public for any inconvenience caused whilst this situation was dealt with.” “We thank our passengers for their patience and understanding, and we commend our flight crew, engineering, operations, and airport personnel for their swift and professional response to ensure safety and minimize disruption. And we appreciate our airport stakeholders and incident responders for their continued support,” Air Niugini stated.

The BSP Financial Group Limited has become a Gold Sponsor for the much-anticipated 2025 Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Summit with a sponsorship of K200, 000 presented this week to the Minister for International Trade and Investment. The presentation event took place on Tuesday 15th July at the BSP Ravalian Haus in Port Moresby city where Minister for International Trade and Investment, Richard Maru, MP, thanked BSP for its contribution and support of the summit, emphasizing the critical role of public-private partnerships in achieving economic independence. “We appreciate BSP’s commitment as Gold Sponsor. The bank’s support sends a clear message — that our financial institutions are invested in PNG’s long-term development. This summit is about more than SEZs. It’s about resetting our course and ensuring that in the next 50 years, PNG achieves true economic independence. We need to downstream process all our resources, build new industries, and create more opportunities for our people,” said Minister Maru. BSP Group CEO Mark Robinson said the bank is pleased to continue play a role in nation building, going beyond traditional financial services. “As the leading financial institution in the South Pacific, BSP is proud to go beyond banking — supporting platforms like this that drive strategic dialogue, bold reform, and economic planning. Our support for this summit is not just an investment in an event — it is an investment in a national conversation. One that we hope will lay the groundwork for the next 50 years of PNG’s economic story,” Mr. Robinson added. Themed “Reflecting on our past 50 years and charting the next 50 years”, the second SEZ Summit, will take place from August 31st to September 3rd in Port Moresby city. It is a key lead-up event in PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary — providing a platform for government, industry, international experts, and development partners to reflect on PNG’s economic progress and set a strategic direction for the next 50 years. The summit will spotlight updates on seven Special Economic Zones, including Sepik Plains, Madang, Paga Hill, the Battery Recycling Plant and Sea Park in Central Province, among others. International guest speakers from Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines are also sharing lessons from their own economic transformations. BSP’s contribution reflects its broader vision to champion prosperity across the South Pacific. As part of this commitment, the bank supports economic platforms that promote inclusive growth, industry development, and investment.

The matter of medical professionals working at the cancer unit facility at Lae Angau Memorial Hospital being on casual salary has not been resolved at this time, prompting the Opposition to call on the prime minister and questioning why nothing has been done about it yet. Opposition Leader Douglas Tomuriesa was in Lae city recently where he visited the hospital’s cancer unit when he was confronted with this issue that is still lingering despite many calls to the Health Department and the National Government. Speaking at a press conference this afternoon in Port Moresby city, Tomuriesa said the cancer unit is in the best conditioning with patients treated with the latest equipment; however, that is not being matched with the medical experts serving the patients at the unit with regards to their payroll. “During my visit to the Lae Angau Memorial Hospital, I was very, very concerned with the cancer unit,” said the Opposition Leader. “The unit has new facilities, new updated, upgraded facilities. When patients go in, they treat them with the latest equipment in the country and that is comparable to some other countries who have same equipment that we have.” “However, some of the technicians, doctors who have been working in there for the last five to ten years are still being paid on casual wages.” This he said means that these medical professionals have been working not as permanent staff, but temporary or part time basis at the cancer unit over the years providing the best possible medical care to cancer patients. “A letter has been sent to the Minister responsible for Health and the prime minister knows about this issue affecting the cancer unit in Lae, but nothing has been done. They’ve been promised that something will be done, but nothing has been done.” “My call to the prime minister and the health minister, how long can the staff of the cancer unit at Angau will continue to remind you?” He also said he has in his possession a copy of the letter that the medical staff had wrote to the health minister and the prime minister. “We spend a lot of money on Connect- PNG, we spend money on other things, but the people who care for the lives of our people, who work tirelessly saving lives, let’s put them on the payroll. That is my call.” Mr. Tomuriesa then thanked those medical staff who continue to be on casual arrangement for their immense work, because despite this matter, they continue to perform their duties in serving the people.

The country is marking 50 years of independence, celebrating strong unity and diversity and what better way to do it than celebrating it as well with a financial institution that has been around since the early days of Papua New Guinea’s journey as a country. That institution is the TISA Bank, born from the service and sacrifice of the country’s very own Teachers, Policemen and Women, Soldiers, Nurses, Doctors, and public servants, TISA Bank isn’t just another institution. In a statement, TISA Bank says it takes pride in charting a bold path forward, with plans to open more than 20 new branches within the next 18 to 24 months going forward. “We are extending our reach into the heart of Papua New Guinea, connecting with the unbanked and underbanked through an innovative agency banking network. A teacher should not leave their class, a nurse their clinic, or a police officer their post just to do their banking. “We’re bringing financial services to where you serve—because your time and contribution deserves that respect,” said TISA Bank. TISA Bank is owned by the people, thus, embodying the spirit of Papua New Guinean ownership, purpose, and accountability. This is not just a bank—it is a movement toward financial inclusion, community growth, and empowered livelihoods. “We urge every public servant to take part in this national initiative. Open your account. Own your bank. And stand with us as we build a more connected, resilient, and inclusive Papua New Guinea."

Members of the National Superannuation Fund (Nasfund) are being advised that this week, branches throughout the country will be closed temporarily for a few days. According to Nasfund, this temporary closure is for an upcoming staff engagement event which is part of the superfund’s commitment to fostering a positive and productive work environment. "This engagement event is crucial for our team’s development and overall service improvement. We appreciate the understanding and support of our members, employers and stakeholders during this period," said Nasfund’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Rajeev Sharma. The closure will take place on the following dates: · Nasfund Provincial Branches will be closed from Wednesday 16th July to Friday 18th July. · Port Moresby City Branches, head office and the eBranch will be closed only on Friday 18th July. However, all digital services, including the Member Online Portal, Employer Online Portal, TextBal, and the Nasfund App, will remain operational and uninterrupted during this period. Normal operations will resume on Monday 21st July 2025.

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.”