The Marape-Rosso Government plans to strengthen the Royal PNG Constabulary over the next decade by increasing police numbers to 10,000 from the current 6,300 and involving PNG Defence Force members in special situations. Prime Minister James Marape emphasized this during Parliament, responding to concerns raised by Member for Vanimo-Green, Belden Namah, about rising law and order issues. Marape acknowledged the severity of the situation and assured that his government is committed to addressing it through increased budgetary support and administrative measures. The government aims to recruit and train more police officers each year until reaching the target of 10,000 personnel,…
Author: Joshua ARLO
Minister Soroi Eoe, in charge of Provincial and Local Government Affairs, clarified that creating new Local-level Governments (LLGs) and Wards in Papua New Guinea must follow a specific procedure without taking shortcuts. He mentioned instances where courts rejected new LLGs and Wards due to not following proper processes. According to Eoe, the process starts at the LLG level, where the need for new Wards and LLGs is identified, discussed, debated, and approved. If approved at this level, it goes to the provincial assembly for further deliberation and endorsement before reaching the Minister for DPLGA with all required documents. In a…
The Bougainville region’s quest for independence from Papua New Guinea was discussed in Parliament on Tuesday this week. Minister for Bougainville Affairs, Manasseh Makiba, explained the process for ratifying the referendum on Bougainville’s independence, highlighting the need for parliamentary approval. He outlined the steps taken, including meetings and negotiations, to address issues such as voting procedures and decision-making majority. Despite some unresolved matters, such as the required majority for decision-making, efforts are underway to reach a consensus. The Minister emphasized the complexity of the issue and the need for thorough deliberation in Parliament to ensure a fair decision for both…
Air Niugini, Papua New Guinea’s national airline, marked its 50th anniversary with a steadfast commitment to providing reliable air transport services to the nation’s people. However, recent online articles published by Pacific Guardian attempted to undermine the integrity of the airline, its management team, and Board of Directors. The report, titled “AIR NIUGINI CANCELS LEASE AGREEMENT AT COST OF REPUTATION OF FUTURE LEASES,” published on February 17, 2024, contained several false and misleading allegations, according to a statement issued by Air Niugini. Air Niugini swiftly responded, refuting the claims, and setting the record straight. Key points addressed by Air Niugini…
In a joint media statement, Sam Koim, Commissioner General of the Internal Revenue Commission (IRC), and Mark Robinson, Group Chief Executive Officer of BSP Financial Group Limited (BSP), have announced the resolution of the Supreme Court judicial review regarding the PNG Government’s imposition of the Additional Company Tax. The settlement follows the payment of K190 million by BSP into an escrow account with the Bank of PNG, pending the judicial review outcome, as announced in December 2022. Under the terms of the settlement, the entire escrowed amount will be disbursed as follows: K95 million will be refunded to BSP, while…
Commissioner of Police, David Manning, has confirmed the deployment of additional security forces to the Wapenamanda area in response to tribal fighting on February 17th. In a statement, Manning urged provincial and local leaders in Enga to intervene and calm tensions, condemning the violence as a “disgraceful act of barbarity.” Manning emphasized the severity of the situation, noting that the exact number of casualties is still being assessed as police continue to recover remains from dense scrubland. He described the conflict as an “act of domestic terrorism” and announced forthcoming legislation aimed at strengthening law enforcement’s capacity to prevent such…
Former Prime Minister (PM) and Member for Ialibu-Pangia, Peter O’Neil has released a 32-page report online, shedding light on payments made by the Department of Finance under the Connect PNG program. Mr. O’Neil revealed that the report, initially presented in Parliament on February 14, 2024, contains details of approximately 1, 400 transactions. In a social media post today (February 19th, 2024), Mr. O’Neil again disclosed that the information was provided by a whistle-blower, outlining the Department of Finance’s transaction history for all Connect PNG cheques and transfers from April 14th, 2021, to January 22nd, 2024. The report indicates a total…
Cricket PNG has revealed its comprehensive 2024 domestic and international cricket schedule, aimed at fostering the growth of the sport across Papua New Guinea. The schedule includes pathway programs and domestic initiatives tailored to engage cricket enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds. The schedule confirms this month’s Kumul Petroleum PNG Baramundi’s T20 World Cup Preparation tour in India, Oman, and Malaysia. CEO Richard Done also unveiled a new management and high-performance structure designed to support the ambitious objectives set for 2024. Among the key appointments are Tatenda Taibu, who will serve as Senior Manager of Performance and Barramundis Coach, and…
The National Capital District (NCD) and New Ireland province are still on alert for potential drought, but there’s hope on the horizon. The latest report from the Papua New Guinea (PNG) National Weather Service (NWS) indicates that El Niño, known for dry conditions, is weakening, with a transition to a more neutral state expected by March or April. Additionally, the Indian Ocean Dipole has returned to a neutral state, offering some positive signs. So, with the ongoing wet season, there’s optimism for relief from the dry spell. While NCD and New Ireland remain under watch for the next three months,…
The Alternative Government issued a press statement today expressing deep sorrow over the tragic massacre in Wapenamanda, Enga Province, where over 50 men lost their lives in ongoing tribal conflicts. Urging swift action, the opposition called upon the National Government to utilize its power and resources to address the escalating violence. Standing in solidarity with Enga’s leaders, particularly Governor Sir Peter Ipatas, the Opposition emphasized the need for enhanced police presence to bolster security in the affected regions. They lamented the devastating impact of the violence, which not only claimed lives but also led to the abuse and assault of…