Prime Minister James Marape continues to drive his government’s commitment to transform the agriculture sector into a major revenue maker for Papua New Guinea (PNG). On Monday 7th April, in Lae city at the National Agriculture Industry Public- Private Sector Partnership Conference, he stressed this in his opening speech by issuing a call to action for PNG to transform its agriculture sector through unified public-private partnerships. In his address at the opening of the Conference, Prime Minister Marape said agriculture is no longer just a sector, it is the foundation for national survival, self-reliance, and long-term prosperity. “I am not a prophet, but I can see that food and water will be the biggest global challenges ahead bigger than oil, gas, or gold,” he said. “PNG must wake up and realize that agriculture is our biggest untapped wealth.” He emphasized that while global conversations focus on climate change, food insecurity is emerging as a pressing challenge, especially for highly populated neighboring nations like China, India, Indonesia, and the Philippines. “When climate change disrupts global rice or wheat production, PNG must be ready to feed ourselves and supply our region,” he said. The Prime Minister outlined his vision to migrate one million households from subsistence living into commercial agriculture, leveraging PNG’s 97% customary land ownership and year-round sunshine. “If my mother could earn K10,000 annually selling cabbage at Tari Market in the 1980s, then in today’s K120 billion economy, one million rural families can do the same or more,” he said. “That’s K10 billion in grassroots income.” He argued that agriculture is not only key to import replacement but also a major export driver, highlighting PNG’s coffee, cocoa, copra, palm oil, livestock, and horticulture potential. Prime Minister Marape challenged the private sector, provincial governments, and policymakers to turn rhetoric into results by creating practical partnerships to unlock land, improve access to finance, and streamline regulations.

The 2025 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup Season has been officially launched with Round One (1) set for this Sunday 13th of April in Lae city, bringing in a season with so many expectations. The eventful launching took place last evening at the Gateway Hotel in Port Moresby city where guests witnessed the display of the Cup and the captains of all twelve (12) franchises in full display of their club outfits. Tony Archer - General Manager, Pathways and Performance, in his opening remarks, reflected on the 2024 Season, hailing it a success, but stressed that things are hitting up especially with the big announcement of 12th December 2024. He said the announcement of Papua New Guinea entering the Australian NRL Competition by 2028 now means the competition will lift its game, putting in more drive into the competition and contributing to further the development of rugby league in the lead up to 2028. The success of the development of rugby league, he said, depends now on everyone in the sport working together. “From 2025 we know it (rugby league) is going to improve while everyone is connected between community rugby league, PNG NRLC, Digicel ExxonMobil, and our youth comp and Santos, with the Hunters and with the NRL franchise. All of those connecting is what’s going to make rugby league in this country great,” said Mr. Archer. Also, one of the expectations is for rule changes in this season as is the case with most rugby league competitions worldwide, but the answer from Mr. Archer is a big no. “Rarely in rugby league do we go ahead without changing the rules, but for this year, there’s no real change to any of the laws of this competition. The Digicel ExxonMobil Cup competition will run under exactly the same rules as last year, as you’ve seen in all games around the world this year. So, it’s a realization that we change the rules too often, but the changing of the rules in a lot of cases has made our game better, but for this year no rule changes,” he said. Digicel PNG Senior Vice President Lorna McPherson who spoke as one of the main sponsors, talked about the partnership in driving the development of rugby league in PNG. "Previously, it was the Digicel Cup, now Digicel ExxonMobil Cup and I think it's about celebrating two partnerships between Digicel and ExxonMobil. We proudly stand as naming right sponsors, a collaboration that’s built on sheer commitment to nurture the growth of rugby league throughout Papua New Guinea,” said McPherson. Meanwhile, this Sunday’s Round 1 match will be between the Rabaul Agmark Gurias and the Lae Snax Tigers. The match will take place at the Lae League Oval at 3pm in the afternoon.

Prime Minister James Marape appealing to all public servants to remain loyal to their duties and refrain from engaging in political commentary or activity. He made this appeal after the Motion of No Confidence against him was put on the notice paper today to go through its constitutional process before it is debated on the floor of parliament next week Tuesday. The process under Section 145(1)(b) of the Constitution is now in motion, with the Notice of the Motion of No Confidence tabled today. “In accordance with the Constitution, Parliament will reconvene next Tuesday to deliberate on the Motion of No Confidence. This is democracy in action. I urge all citizens to respect the process and allow it to unfold without interference,” said Marape. In the meantime, he is urging public servants not to allow politics interfere with the duties and to remain neutral and focus on delivering service to the people. “I urge all public servants: Keep your political views at home. When you report to work, be loyal to your role as a servant of the people. Remain productive. Historically, Motions of No Confidence have disrupted the public service. We cannot allow that to happen again,” he said. He cited the instability that plagued Papua New Guinea from 1975 to 2002, during which the average lifespan of a government was just two and a half years, leading to poor economic growth and a weakened public service. “It wasn’t until the Organic Law on Political Parties and Candidates was introduced in 2001 that we experienced stability under the Somare Government. That gave our economy space to grow. We must not return to the instability of the past.” Nevertheless, Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed his commitment to unity, the Constitution, and democratic values. “As we move towards 2027, I urge all Papua New Guineans to respect our Constitution, our Courts, and the democratic process. If you have concerns, express them through your vote– not by undermining the institutions that hold our nation together. Next week, either I or Sir Peter Ipatas will be Prime Minister. Regardless of the outcome, I call on the public service to stay focused, and on our people to remain united.”

Parliament has been adjourned as of this morning to next week Tuesday to allow the motion of no confidence go through its constitutional process before debating it, something which Prime Minister James Marape himself gladly accepted. Prime Minister Marape fully welcomed today’s special sitting of Parliament, commending the Speaker and Members of Parliament (MPs) for complying with the Supreme Court’s directive and setting a strong precedent for future leaders of Papua New Guinea (PNG). He acknowledged that today’s sitting was convened under the direction of the Supreme Court and with the leadership of the Speaker, demonstrating respect for the rule of law and the supremacy of the Constitution. “Parliament convened today not by defying the Court, but by upholding it. I commend the Speaker for allowing the sitting to proceed in compliance with the Court’s order. This moment stands as an important reminder that no one – including Members of Parliament – is above the law,” Prime Minister Marape said. The Prime Minister reflected on the events of 2011, when a previous Parliament failed to honour a Supreme Court ruling that restored the government of the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare. “We must never repeat the mistakes of 2011. Back then, Members of Parliament took actions that undermined the authority of the Supreme Court and eroded our democratic principles. Laws were passed that, in some instances, made the father of our nation a stranger in his own Parliament. That must never happen again,” he said. Prime Minister Marape stressed that in a country as politically, culturally and economically diverse as Papua New Guinea, leaders must be seen to uphold the law. “The Courts interpret the law. Parliament legislates. Each institution has its place in our democracy, and when the Supreme Court speaks, we must comply. If there are uncertainties, the law provides avenues for appeal and clarification. But we do not defy the Court – we honour it,” he said.

The Supreme Court ordered parliament recalled sitting commenced this morning with the Members of Parliament from the Government team punctual arriving 20 minutes before 10am. Most of them were seen leaving the State Function Room walking briskly to the main chamber to start the day's business. Today's sitting is expected to see the Opposition file the motion of a no confidence on the notice paper, which will then allow for a seven-day suspension for the process to take place and parliament to resume next week for the actual Vote of No Confidence to proceed.

The Supreme Court ordered parliament recalled sitting commenced this morning with the Members of Parliament from the Government team punctual arriving 20 minutes before 10am. Most of them were seen leaving the State Function Room walking briskly to the main chamber to start the day's business. Today's sitting is expected to see the Opposition file the motion of a no confidence on the notice paper, which will then allow for a seven-day suspension for the process to take place and parliament to resume next week for the actual Vote of No Confidence to proceed.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape is in Brisbane, Australia this weekend on another official trip, using this trip to give Members of Parliament (MPs) space to reflect freely ahead of the looming motion of no confidence. The visit comes at a significant political moment, and Prime Minister Marape said his decision to travel is also intended to demonstrate respect for the democratic process and to avoid any perception of exerting undue influence on Members of Parliament. “There is much political noise in the air, with accusations labelling me a control freak or a dictator,” Prime Minister Marape said. “To respect the integrity of the process, I am deliberately stepping back from close proximity to Members of Parliament so that they can decide freely, without pressure, what is best for the country.” He said this was not a time for campaigning, but for reflection and fair judgment. “After six years as Prime Minister, I am placing my record before Parliament and stepping back. I’ve told my caucus, my coalition partners, and all Members of the Pangu Pati that I will not be actively present among them this week,” he said. “Instead, I encourage them to assess both candidates fairly — myself, and the alternative presented by the Opposition, Sir Peter Ipatas.” The Prime Minister acknowledged Sir Peter as a senior and experienced leader and emphasized that Members of Parliament must now exercise their judgment based on conscience and national interest. The Prime Minister also highlighted his government’s commitment to equitable service delivery during his term as the head of the country, stating what his government has done so far. “Contrary to some claims, we have been fair to all MPs — both in Government and Opposition. DSIP and PSIP funds have been distributed without bias. A good example is James Donald, who opened a new terminal funded from DSIP allocations my government approved.” He reaffirmed that he will return early next week but may also take additional time away once the motion is formally placed on notice. “I value taking short periods of reflection during moments of political pressure. It helps me reset and return focused. More importantly, I want the country to know that Members of Parliament are making their own choices, freely and in good faith.” The PM’s trip to Brisbane was to attend a series of high-level engagements focused on strengthening Papua New Guinea’s partnerships in sports and education. During his visit, Prime Minister Marape was the special guest of the Brisbane Broncos at yesterday’s NRL match against the Wests Tigers, where the Broncos thrashed the Tigers 46 points to 24.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has accepted the 10% tariff slapped on Papua New Guinea (PNG) exports to the United States (US) by President Donald Trump but says local exports could be redirected to friendlier markets should things get too difficult. Prime Minister Marape in an official statement said the Government had been formally briefed by the Department of Foreign Affairs and recognizes that the tariff imposition is a decision made under the current U.S. administration’s domestic trade priorities. “As a sovereign nation, we respect the right of the United States Government to make trade policy decisions in accordance with its national interest,” Prime Minister Marape said. “We have no issue with this development and do not intend to retaliate with counter tariffs, as others may have done. Instead, we reaffirm our long-standing commitment to free and fair trade.” The Prime Minister said that PNG values its bilateral relationship with the United States, a country that shares many of the same principles of democracy and open markets. “The U.S. remains one of the world’s largest free-market democracies, and Papua New Guinea shares this worldview,” he said. “We are a democratic nation that believes in rules based international trade. While we reserve the right to protect our domestic industries when needed, in this instance, we will not respond with hostility or punitive measures.” Prime Minister Marape also noted that PNG's trade footprint is increasingly diversified, with strong and growing markets in Asia, Southeast Asia, the broader Pacific region, Japan, South Korea, India, Thailand, Vietnam, Australia, New Zealand, and Europe. “Our trading partners in Asia — including China, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and others — have treated Papua New Guinea with respect, honour, and fairness,” he said. “These are our closest neighbours and represent proximity markets that continue to offer growing opportunities for our producers.” “We will continue to strengthen our trade relations in Asia and the Pacific, where our produce is welcomed. If the U.S. market becomes more difficult due to this tariff, we will simply redirect our goods to markets where there is mutual respect and no artificial barriers.” The Prime Minister concluded by reiterating PNG’s openness to all partners, including the United States, but stated clearly that the country would act in its best interests without compromising its values. “We remain open for trade, we remain a friend to all, and we will continue to stand by our principles of cooperation, respect, and economic diplomacy.”

Things are moving face following the Supreme Court of Justice Ruling last week ordering the Speaker of Parliament to recall parliament sitting to proceed with the motion of a no confidence vote against the prime minister. It is especially during such times when things get tense, in the political level and also at the community level. Such is the reality that Prime Minister James Marape came out in a statement, calling for calm amongst the people. Prime Minister Marape on Thursday 3rd April issued a national appeal for calm and for all citizens to respect the constitutional and legal processes currently underway in relation to the upcoming Vote of No Confidence (VONC). Speaking ahead of next Tuesday’s Parliament’s sitting, Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed that the Marape-Rosso Government and the broader Pangu-led coalition will not interfere in any way with proceedings before the courts, and that the rule of law remains paramount. “We welcome the court’s oversight and scrutiny. This Government will not tamper with any court process. We respect the judiciary to the fullest and will comply with all legal requirements,” Prime Minister Marape said. “At the same time, we reserve our right to invoke a 'slip rule' should there be instances where we believe the court’s ruling has encroached into the functions and privileges of Parliament. However, we will only consider this path after the parliamentary process has been completed and in full compliance with the existing court order.” The Prime Minister confirmed that Parliament stands ready, and Members of Parliament have been informed and are prepared to return. He noted that the decision before them is between the alternative nominee named on 27th November 2024 and himself as the incumbent Prime Minister. “I ask our people to remain calm and not to take offence. Let the due process take its course in accordance with our laws and Constitution.” He reminded citizens that the Vote of No Confidence is not new to the country’s political process and is a legitimate part of democratic governance under the Constitution. “This is not the first time a Vote of No Confidence has been moved, and it will not be the last. It is a constitutional provision. Let our elected leaders exercise the mandate bestowed upon them by the people. In 2027, the people of Papua New Guinea will again have the opportunity to choose their government through the ballot box.” Meanwhile, the Opposition will continue with the Vote of No Confidence (VONC) motion in next week’s recalled parliament sitting and hopes that fellow Members of Parliament see the need for a change and join them in their quest to oust the prime minister. Speaking to PNG HAUSBUNG, the Opposition Leader Douglas Tomuriesa, made it clear that once parliament resumes on Tuesday 8th April at 10AM in the morning, the process will continue from where they left off last year. “As soon it’s (VONC motion) put on the notice paper, the process begins,” said the Opposition Leader. The recall of parliament was ordered by the Supreme Court of Justice at Waigani in Port Moresby city after it found that the decision by the Private Business Committee to reject the motion of a no confidence on the notice paper was unconstitutional and in breach of Section 111 of the Constitution. The Court confirmed that the Speaker of Parliament did not follow the standing orders when rejecting the motion on the 27th of November 2024.

The Opposition will continue with the Vote of No Confidence (VONC) motion in next week’s recalled parliament sitting and hopes that fellow Members of Parliament (MPs) see the need for a change and join them in their quest to oust the prime minister. Speaking to PNG HAUSBUNG this morning, the Opposition Leader Douglas Tomuriesa, made it clear that once the parliament resumes on Tuesday 8th April at 10AM in the morning, the process will continue from where they left off last year. “As soon it’s (VONC motion) put on paper, the process begins, but it all comes down to the nominee. If the nominee wants to continue, then the game is on,” said the Opposition Leader. The nominee in this matter is the Governor for Enga, Sir Peter Ipatas, who accepted to be the alternative prime minister nominee for the Opposition last year when the Opposition moved the motion. He was the other nominee following the departure of the initial nominee, Raindo Paita, who returned to the Government earlier. “If the nominee decides to withdraw for some technical reason, then it comes down to re- planning and reorganizing the Opposition again.” Mr. Tomuriesa acknowledged that the Opposition does not have the numbers but is hoping that fellow college MPs on the other side put their people and the country first and cross the floor to join the Opposition to make a positive change, a change which the Leader said is in everyone’s best interest. “So, Papua New Guinea is crying for a new government. If you want a new government, talk to your MPs, talk to your leaders. This cannot be done by the Opposition alone.” Meanwhile, the recall of parliament was ordered by the Supreme Court of Justice in Port Moresby after it found that the decision by the Private Business Committee to reject the motion of a no confidence on the notice paper was unconstitutional and in breach of Section 111 of the Constitution. The Court confirmed that the Speaker of Parliament did not follow the standing order when rejecting the motion on the 27th of November 2024.

The New Ireland province has a new Governor, but the election and appointment of Walter Schnaubelt as Governor has received criticisms and rejections from some members of the provincial assembly. This reaction stemmed from what was alleged to be a closed door swearing in ceremony of the former Minister for Aviation and Member (MP) for Namatanai because of alleged breaches to standing orders surrounding his appointment. The appointment came almost two months after the Late Sir Julius Chan, the former Governor, was laid to rest at his home in Manmantinut in New Ireland province. The Chairman of the New Ireland Provincial Assembly and Deputy Governor Mr. Sammy Missen in a press conference on Friday 28th March said the election of Mr. Schnaubelt did not follow procedure and standing orders and has been deemed illegal. According to Mr. Missen, the election of a new governor for New Ireland was scheduled for Wednesday 26th and Thursday 27th of March; however, he said the sitting was adjourned on the 26th of March to the 9th of July due to a point of order raised by the MP for Namatanai on the legality of four chiefs in the Assembly, which the late Sir Julius had appointed. Mr. Missen then said he was unable to make a decision on this matter as he was not present during the time of the appointment of the four chiefs in question, hence, they decided to adjourn the sitting so to take this matter to court, to find out and make the right decision on the legality of these four chiefs. However, Mr. Missen was then called up again to hear out the lawyers and the Clerk just after they had met. But this time the topic now was not on that point of order from MP Namatanai, instead it was to go ahead with the vote for the new governor. “This didn’t come with my decision, so I suspended and adjourned the assembly to the 27th of March to come back and look back on the decision on declaring MP for Namatanai as Governor unopposed.” However, on the 27th of March Assembly sitting, Missen, instead of going ahead with the election, insists that the point of order by the MP for Namatanai regarding the legality of the four chiefs must be addressed first before the election can take place. “So that’s what we did. I went in, read the statement with regards to the point of order by the MP for Namatanai. Due to this matter having to go to court, that was the issue of the day that we must address before we go to the election. “So, that’s why I read the statement, and the full house agreed to adjourn the meeting to the 9th of July 2025,” he said. The reason was that the legality of the four chiefs needs to be addressed first, so to avoid any implications that may come up after the election of a new governor. So, to avoid this, the matter had to go to court. “That was the stand we took; we want this matter to go to court first before we come to elect a new governor. We believe we did the right thing, and all processes and standing orders of the assembly were followed to adjourn the meeting to give time for the court to come in to address this issue,” Mr. Missen said. However, Mr. Missen claimed that the MP was desperate for the Governor’s seat and went ahead with the appoint, something which he said was illegal and they will challenge Mr. Schnaubelt’s appoint because what took place did not follow the standing orders of the New Ireland provincial assembly. Mr. Missen stressed that right now there is an illegal provincial government in place and recognizes that strong opposition as well from the people of New Ireland province against the swearing in of Schnaubelt as New Ireland Governor. He further stressed that the matter will now be challenged in court as the laws were broken to form this new provincial government.

The Prime Minister touched down at the Jackson International Airport this morning where he made his way to the APEC Terminal and gave an update on the trip that he took to New Zealand (NZ), which he said was a very successful one. Addressing the media at the terminal, he said the visit saw productive discussions and enhanced bilateral relations, focused on economic cooperation, labour mobility, agriculture, education, and state-owned enterprise reforms. Strengthening Bilateral Relations Prime Minister James Marape’s official visit to New Zealand commenced with a high-level bilateral meeting held in the New Zealand Parliament in Wellington with New Zealand Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Christopher Luxon. The discussions culminated in the signing of a Statement of Partnership for 2025–2029, aimed at bolstering economic, political, and cultural ties between the two nations, while providing a strategic roadmap for collaboration in various sectors. “Upon arrival, the Prime Minister and I had a good bilateral meeting in the Parliament that concluded with the signing of the Statement of Partnership for 2025–2029,” said Prime Minister Marape. He added, “Both Prime Minister Luxon and I agree that there must be a step up. We also agreed that the Statement of Partnership is a living document… we must work so that we can be mutually beneficial to the relationship we have.” The Prime Minister also engaged in constructive discussions with New Zealand’s Deputy Prime Minister and the Opposition Leader, emphasizing the bipartisan approach of the New Zealand Government in its engagements with Papua New Guinea. The series of meetings reflected New Zealand’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with Papua New Guinea at all levels of government. Labour Mobility and Economic Opportunities A major focus of the visit was the enhancement of labour mobility between Papua New Guinea and New Zealand. Presently, over 600 Papua New Guineans are employed under New Zealand’s seasonal work schemes, earning approximately K50,000 annually. Prime Minister Marape highlighted the potential to expand this number to over 10,000 in the coming years. “We will continue working with both Australia and New Zealand to create more opportunities for our youth,” he stated. The Prime Minister shared positive feedback from New Zealand employers who praised the diligence and productivity of Papua New Guinean workers. “I pitched for the space and the report we got from a couple of employers we had contact with was that Papua New Guineans working there are hard workers, productive workers and a good report we received.” Additionally, the New Zealand Government expressed interest in collaborating with Papua New Guinea to enhance its agricultural export standards, particularly for tropical produce such as coffee and cocoa. Agriculture and Livestock Collaboration Prime Minister Marape was particularly impressed by New Zealand’s agricultural success, noting that agriculture, livestock, and fisheries contribute between 60% and 70% of New Zealand’s economy. The Prime Minister remarked on the vast potential Papua New Guinea possesses but has yet to fully harness, particularly in agriculture and livestock. “These potentials we have in PNG… but we face challenges at various levels of governance,” he noted. Discussions were also held to enhance collaboration between the Livestock Improvement Corporation of New Zealand and Papua New Guinea’s Livestock Development Corporation, aimed at boosting local livestock production and developing sustainable agricultural practices. “We are a country bigger than New Zealand by over 100,000 square kilometres. But, our livestock is under 50,000. We are closest to the biggest beef-eating nation, that’s Indonesia next door. Yet for so long we've just been focusing on oil and gold and gas and not focusing on key areas that could anchor the economy,” Prime Minister Marape stated. Technical Expertise and Infrastructure Development A key outcome of the visit was Prime Minister Marape’s request for technical expertise from New Zealand to enhance the efficiency of Papua New Guinea’s State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs). He proposed the appointment of independent directors from New Zealand to contribute their expertise to sectors such as power, water, telecommunications, and airlines. “I’ve asked for about five technical experts especially to be inserted at our board level in our power company, in our water company, in our telco company and in our airline company,” he stated. Humanitarian Efforts and Educational Collaboration Prime Minister Marape acknowledged the continuous support provided by New Zealand-based NGOs, including the Fred Hollows Foundation, which has been actively working in Papua New Guinea. He also noted a substantial investment by New Zealand in developing a world-class eye clinic at the Port Moresby General Hospital, which is expected to benefit thousands of Papua New Guineans. He also met over 50 Papua New Guinean students studying under New Zealand Government scholarships and expressed his desire to increase these opportunities. “I pitched very high in New Zealand that I’m going to send more kids to study there,” Prime Minister Marape said, stressing the importance of education and collaboration between the two nations. Enhancing Regional Relations Prime Minister Marape emphasized that Papua New Guinea’s position as a respected regional partner has been strengthened by its continued commitment to democracy and engagement with neighbouring countries. As Papua New Guinea approaches its 50th anniversary of independence, the Prime Minister stressed the significance of building stronger ties with New Zealand and other regional partners. “They appreciate who we are in our region… seen from the context of Pacific Nation that bridges Southeast Asia and Asia,” Prime Minister Marape said. He further noted, “No longer is PNG seen from a lower perspective. We are seen from an equal regional partnership perspective. Our views in the region are taken on board seriously and we are a valued partner in the region.” The visit is expected to pave the way for deeper economic, educational, and humanitarian collaboration between Papua New Guinea and New Zealand, contributing to mutual growth and regional stability.