Following the latest release of their brand-new Extended Playlist (EP) that was released early this year, Jnr Vigi is now preparing to tour the country to promote their EP called ‘Varavara’. The duo group who are also brothers; Emmanuel Ola known as Min Jah Gan and Adrian Ola also known as DrianB, from Keapara in Rigo District of Central province have both worked tirelessly in composing, recording and producing, now has the opportunity to promote their EP to fans. The EP has a total of six songs which are Varavara, Oimo, Pono Ripa, Wedding Day and two which are remakes including Arawaku and Love Anna. Emmanuel Ola told PNG HAUSBUNG that the tour of the EP will take place for the whole month of May starting on the 3rd of May where the first tour will be at Club 99 in Lae, Morobe province. The second part of the tour will take place on the 10th of May at Club McKenzie in Goroka, Eastern Highlands province followed by the third tour at Ralum Club in Kokopo of East New Britain province which will be on the 17th of May. “For the last part of the tour, it will be a bigger show which we will have here in the Nation's Capital on the 31st of May where we will be closing the tour at the Cosmopolitan.” For each performance, Jnr Vigi will also have featured artists who will be singing with them including Asi Vaname for Club 99 in Lae as well as O-FouR who will be backing Jnr Vigi in Goroka and Kokopo. “We will also have a few more artists singing with us here in Port Moresby, but I won’t give out more information on that because we want the people to come and experience what Jnr Vigi has in store for everyone to see.” Emmanuel further shared that the production of the EP is now different compared to their previous songs that they have released over the years and being that his brother Adrian is not only singing beside him but also producing their songs. With tireless efforts being out to the tour of their EP, Emmanuel stated that preparations have been going well for the brothers with the help of their managers. Meanwhile, Emmanuel also shared their journey throughout the years in the music industry and how they have grown and made a name of themselves in the PNG music industry. Singing at an early age as kids, little did they know they would be famous one day and with challenges faced along the way, they eventually got to where they want to be and to achieve more in the future. “Our music has evolved over the years with our sound that has improved a lot.” “We created our music in a way where it adapts to the trending music that you hear especially on social media. So, our journey has been tough, but we thank God for bringing us through and to our managers as well who have made things so much easier for us.” Famous for their song ‘Love Ana’ that was released four years ago, this was a hit and a main breakthrough in the industry of PNG music that made them known to listeners. “It was the YUMI FM radio station that gave us that exposure to be known to the listeners and to show them who Jnr Vigi is through the song ‘Love Ana'.” Furthermore, Emmanuel thanked all who have made it possible in shaping Jnr Vigi to where they are now, especially to the family and loved ones for their support throughout their journey. Information on the ticket prices and sales will be made available soon on Jnr Vigi’s Facebook page.

Marie Stopes Papua New Guinea (MSPNG) and Femili PNG (FPNG) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance collaboration in providing critical services to survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and family and sexual violence (FSV) in Papua New Guinea. The partnership between MSPNG, a leading provider of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services, and FPNG, a national leader in case management and support for survivors of violence, aims to improve access to integrated, high-quality care for vulnerable individuals. The MoU outlines a shared commitment to training, awareness, advocacy, and referral pathways to ensure survivors receive comprehensive support. The MoU was signed by Ms. Angelyn Famudi, Country Director of Marie Stopes PNG, and Ms. Daisy Plana, CEO of Femili PNG, with Mr. Benson Hahambu, Projects Director of MSPNG, and Ms. Rose Walen, Operations Director of Bel isi PNG Case Management Centre in Port Moresby – Operated by FPNG, serving as witnesses. Under the MoU, the two organizations will work together on training and capacity building, with FPNG providing training to MSPNG staff on detecting FSV during service delivery, while MSPNG will upskill FPNG’s health team on basic SRH interventions. Both organizations will also engage in awareness and advocacy efforts, including SRH education, outreach activities, and participation in seminars and workshops on SGBV, women’s health, and gender inclusion. Additionally, the partnership will focus on referrals and case management. FPNG will refer survivors to MSPNG for emergency SRH services, including counselling, medical care, and contraceptives, while MSPNG will refer clients to FPNG for case management support. The organizations will also collaborate on research and evidence-based advocacy to improve national and subnational responses to SGBV and FSV. The partnership reflects the shared vision of both organizations to address the urgent needs of survivors of violence and to promote gender equality and inclusion. By combining their expertise, MSPNG and FPNG aim to create a more coordinated and effective response to SGBV and FSV, ensuring survivors receive the care and support they need to rebuild their lives. The MoU will remain in effect for three years, with opportunities for renewal and further collaboration. Both organizations are committed to ensuring the success of this partnership and to making a lasting impact on the lives of survivors of violence in PNG.

The PNG Agriculture Commercialization and Diversification (PACD) Project through the partnership model program continues in fulfilling its objective in improving the lives of the rural population. The basic objective of the project is to facilitate the development of competitive and diversified agriculture value chains for selected commodities in the targeted provinces. As part of the project design and initiative, East New Britain Province (ENBP) is the first province to have a poultry rollout program with a total of more than 1, 000 farmers with their households participating. Kairak Center for Sustainable Rural Development (KCfSRD) in partnership with the PACD-Cocoa project, conducted a three-day training that took place from the 26th to the 28th of March on Basic Broiler Farming for a total of 150 farmers both men and women including youths at the Kairak Resource Center in the Gazelle District. The aim of the training is to equip participants with the basic knowledge and skills of poultry farming including good waste management practices to mitigate and monitor waste from poultry farming. Kairak is a productive partnership with the PACD project managing two poultry projects the North Baining Poultry, Piggery Commercialization, and Galip Diversification project and Ataliklikun Commercial Small Livestock and Galip Diversification. A total of 1, 000 farmers have registered under Kairak; 500 each for both the projects and about 14, 000 day-old-chicks have also been distributed to the participants at the beginning in March of this year. In addition, the income generated from the first batch of the rollout program will eventually be used as seed capital save in individual bank accounts with an aim to save money or purchase chicks again and eventually venture into other micro, small to medium enterprise activities. The participants are expected to use the knowledge acquired in the training to manage poultry projects as a micro enterprise in their respective villages. Participant, Matiran Tutmulai, who is a member of the Ataliklikun from Vudal ward, said the training has taught a lot and will motivate her members to adopt best practices in poultry farming. Meanwhile, representing the Cocoa PACD Project Management Unit (PMU) Productive Partnership Coordinator, Martin Powell, was present to witness the small yet significant gathering for the farmers. Other guests who also attended to witness the event were, Vice Chancellor of Papua New Guinea University of Natural Resources and Environment, Professor Isak Pue as well as KCfSRD Manager, Hosea Turbarat. On behalf of the Cocoa PACD Project, Mr. Powell urged the gathering that this training is vital as they already received day-old chicks to utilize these knowledge and skills in their small poultry projects. “Chickens are perfect and sustainable way to ensure adequate protein is included in diet as many surveys shown that there is shortage in protein and is expensive.” “Look after your poultry projects, sell them and the income look after your families, save some and used some to buy day old chicks again.”

‘Women are the backbone of our families and our communities but if we are not well, the whole family suffers.’ These were the words of Her Excellency Lady Emeline Tufi Dadae, the wife of the Governor General of Papua New Guinea, Sir Bob Dadae, who spoke at the recent PNG Cancer Foundation’s Inaugural Susa Lounge: Connect 4 Cause, which took place on the Saturday evening of the 29th of March 2025 at the Royal Papua Yacht club in Port Moresby. With the theme, ‘Accelerate Action,’ this event was a networking event which focused on women’s health as well as the importance of cancer prevention, early detection and research. Her Excellency stressed that the one of the biggest health threats to women in PNG is cancer, especially cervical and breast cancer. “These are diseases that can touch anyone in this room. I’m sure you all know of someone; a family member, friend or colleague who has cancer or has unfortunately passed away from this disease. Cancer does not discriminate.” Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among women in PNG. According to the PNG Cancer Foundation, more than 1, 500 women lose their lives to this disease each year. Breast cancer is also on the rise. More women are being diagnosed every year, but many only find out when it’s already too late. The truth is many of these cancer deaths can be prevented. Her Excellency stated that there are various factors that hinder women from getting medical attention including fear, where women are afraid to find out about their condition. Secondly, they don’t know where to go or who to talk to, for fear of discrimination. And thirdly, they simply don’t think it’s important and they wait until they are sick to seek medical attention by which time it is already too late. With these factors, Lady Dadae outlined the cruciality of going for checkups, stating the most obvious which is ‘Early detention can save lives.’ “We don’t have to wait for things to get worse! We can stem the tide of cancer and make a difference.” In addition, she also encouraged all women over 21 years of age to get tested and to see a health worker immediately, whether it be for cervical cancer or if one notices any changes or feel lump in their breast. “Talk about it! Cancer is not a curse; it is not a result of sorcery or traditional witchcraft; it is a disease, and it can be treated if found early. We need to speak openly about it. The more we talk, the more we learn.” “Also, support each other. If you know a woman who is afraid to go for a check-up, encourage her. If you are a husband, brother, or father, support women in your life to get screened.” Meanwhile, Lady Dadae also acknowledged the men who were also present during the event stating that as a husband, brother, or father, they have played a critical role in the lives, health and wellbeing of the women society. “Your support and care are essential to us, and pivotal also in turning the tide of cancer. We are in this together.” “The key to saving lives is, ACTION. If we act now, we can make a difference. We can save lives. Let’s spread the message and encourage our sisters, mothers and daughters to get checked.” Furthermore, Her Excellency encouraged all women and girls to make their health their priority and urged them to start investing in their personal health as the first step in the fight against women’s cancers. “Let’s be self-aware and proactive. Make it your business to learn as much as you can about the risks of cancer, its effects and symptoms and act on these advise and warnings.” “When we take care of our health, we are better able to take care of our family, build strong families and communities, and a stronger Papua New Guinea now and into the future.”

Prime Minister James Marape on Monday officially opened the new Enga Provincial Hospital in Wabag town, describing it as a “greenfield, world-class facility” and one of the most significant health infrastructure investments in Papua New Guinea’s history. He stated that the hospital stands as a symbol of what strong leadership, consistency, and collaboration across all levels of government and development partners can achieve. “At a cost of over K600 million, this is not only a milestone for Enga, but a model for our entire country.” Addressing dignitaries, local leaders, development partners, public servants, and citizens who gathered in large numbers despite the rain, the Prime Minister praised the tireless efforts of Enga Governor Sir Peter Ipatas and acknowledged the pivotal roles played by past and present national governments, the Chinese Government, the Australian Government, the Department of Health, and other stakeholders. “Enga is privileged to have a governor who has worked tirelessly over many years to realize this vision. From concept to completion, this hospital reflects years of planning, hard work, and unwavering commitment.” The hospital, which meets Level five (5) standards, is fully equipped with cutting-edge medical technology and has the capacity to be upgraded to Level six (6) or Level seven (7) in the future. It will not only serve the people of Enga but also act as a major referral center for over 3.5 to 4 million people across the Highlands and parts of the Sepik regions. “This is more than just a building, it is a fully equipped modern medical facility capable of treating complex illnesses, training medical professionals, and becoming a center of excellence; particularly for lifestyle-related diseases such as cancer and diabetes.” He thanked China for its support in constructing the hospital, and Australia for providing AUS$7 million towards equipment and fit-out. He also acknowledged previous governments, including the National Alliance (NA) and People's National Congress (PNC) administrations for their roles in initiating and supporting the project. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister instructed the Health Department to move swiftly on the rollout of other provincial hospitals. “We have sixteen more provincial hospitals to cover including Bougainville. This facility is now ready, just one day away from being operational and is a testament to our ability to work together over time for the good of our people.” He further urged the Enga Provincial Health Authority to ensure the hospital functions as a regional hub, linking rural health posts and sub-health centers to the main hospital, and making full use of resources from national funding and tax credit schemes tied to major resource projects like Porgera. “The national government has invested over K5.6 billion into districts, including those held by the opposition in the last six years.” “That funding must now translate into working health centers, working aid posts, and referral pathways that lead to this hospital.” He concluded with a call to action for all public servants, health workers, and stakeholders to ensure that the hospital delivers real outcomes for ordinary citizens. “This is not just about money; it is about making systems work, about public servants rising up, and about giving our people the healthcare they deserve. Let this hospital be a lighthouse of health for Enga and the entire Highlands region.”

Prime Minister James Marape emphasized his government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law following the Supreme Court ruling directing the recall of Parliament to deliberate on a motion of no confidence. The Supreme Court, in a decision handed down on Monday morning, declared that the Private Business Committee’s decision of 27th November 2024 to reject the motion of no confidence was unconstitutional. The Court further ordered that Parliament be recalled sitting on the 8th of April 2025, with the motion of no confidence to be placed on the Notice Paper and debated accordingly. Prime Minister Marape, responding shortly after the Court’s announcement, said the government respects the courts and that the Supreme Court reads and interprets the Constitution better than all and with that, will honor its ruling. He also acknowledged the Court’s clarification of critical constitutional provisions which pertain to the right of Members of Parliament to introduce motions and participate in the democratic processes of government. “The Court found that there was a vacuum in the law and has provided direction. As the executive arm of government, we will not stand in the way. Parliament will sit as ordered by the Court.” He also reaffirmed his administration's commitment to democratic norms, distancing it from the political crisis of 2011 stating that unlike the 2011 government, they will not defy the Supreme Court. “I want to leave behind a legacy that upholds judicial independence and respects court decisions. This is how democracy must function.” Among its declarations, the Supreme Court found that: •     The Private Business Committee’s rejection of the motion was unconstitutional. •     Parliament’s earlier resolution to reject the motion was not a bar to a fresh motion being entertained. •     The failure to list the motion on the Notice Paper violated the principle of collective responsibility and was inconsistent with section 141 of the Constitution. •     The Speaker is now ordered to recall Parliament by 8 April 2025 to allow for the motion to be introduced and debated. •     The Private Business Committee must deliver the motion to the Clerk of Parliament for listing. These declarations reflect the Court’s commitment to preserving the rights of MPs and ensuring motions of no confidence are properly handled, in accordance with the Constitution and relevant Standing Orders. Prime Minister Marape also praised the legal process commending the Deputy Leader of the Opposition and all who pursued this matter through the courts. “It is a testament to our maturing democracy. The courts remain the proper venue for conflict resolution in our country.” Meanwhile, he also confirmed that he has instructed his legal team to examine constitutional questions around the separation of powers. “While respecting the ruling, we will seek clarification from the Supreme Court on where the boundary lies between the role of Parliament and that of the Court.” He assured the public that the government will cooperate with all directives of the Court and allow the parliamentary process to proceed without obstruction. Furthermore, Prime Minister Marape concluded by encouraging all leaders and citizens to respect the institutions that uphold democracy and law in Papua New Guinea. “Let us teach our country that disputes must be settled in court, and when courts rule, we must comply. This is the foundation of our democracy.”

The Supreme Court has ruled that the decision by the Private Business Committee to reject the 27th of November 2024 motion of No Confidence in the Prime Minister on the notice paper was unconstitutional and in breach of Section 111 of the Constitution. The case, which was filed by Deputy Opposition Leader and member for Chuave James Nomane, has now been ruled in his favor to proceed and debate on the motion after the Court ruled against the Parliament’s decision to disallow a motion of No Confidence in the Prime Minister, was unconstitutional. The motion was disallowed based on Section 165 of the Standing Orders, which prevents a motion to take place within twelve months. The Supreme Court was asked to determine the constitutionality of Section 165 and the decision to disallow the motion. The Court then found that the Private Business Committee had made the decision to disallow the motion of no confidence, which was then conveyed to the Parliament by the Deputy Speaker. Being that the Court found that Section 165 as it applies to motions of no confidence in the Prime Minister, is inconsistent with the Constitution and therefore, unconstitutional and that the decision to disallow the motion of no confidence was unconstitutional. The Court declared as follows: It is declared that the Private Business Committee's decision of 27 November 2024 to reject a motion of no confidence in the Prime Minister was unconstitutional for being in breach of Section 111 (right to introduce bills etc.) of the Constitution. It is declared that the Parliament's resolution of 12 September 2024 to reject a motion of no confidence in the Prime Minister did not perforce of Sections 50(1)(e), 111(1), 142(5) and 145 of the Constitution, restrict the right of members of the Parliament to submit another motion of no confidence in the same Prime Minister. It is declared that the decision of the Private Business Committee to not place the motion of no confidence on the notice paper was contrary to the principle of collective responsibility of the executive arm of government to the Parliament under Section 141 of the Constitution. It is declared that Section 165 of the Standing Orders, to the extent that it applies to a motion of no confidence, is unconstitutional for being inconsistent with Sections 50(1)(e), 111(1), 142(5) and 145 of the Constitution. It is declared that Section 134 (proceedings non-justiciable) of the Constitution does not limit the Supreme Court's jurisdiction to declare the decision of the Private Business Committee unconstitutional. It is declared that the question of whether Section 165 of the Standing Orders is unconstitutional is justiciable. It is declared that the decision of the Private Business Committee to reject the motion of no confidence of 27 November 2024 is invalid, inconsistent or ineffective pursuant to Section 11(1) of the Constitution. It is ordered that the Speaker of the National Parliament shall take all steps necessary to recall the Parliament to meet on 8 April 2025 and to facilitate debate of the motion of no confidence of 27 November 2024. It is ordered that the Private Business Committee shall deliver the motion of no confidence of 27 November 2024 to the Clerk of the Parliament, who shall list it on the notice paper forthwith. Subject to specific costs orders made in the course of these proceedings, the interveners shall pay the applicant's costs of the proceedings on a party-party basis, which shall, if not agreed, be taxed. The Court’s declared that Section 165 of the Standing Orders is unconstitutional to the extent that it applies to motions of No Confidence in the Prime Minister. Parliament will now be recalled on April the 8th 2025, to deliberate on the motion of No Confidence of 27 November 2024.

Minister for Police Peter Tsiamalili Jr. has strongly condemned the recent misleading public statements made by the Governor of East Sepik Province, Allan Bird, regarding ongoing Police Counter-Terrorism operations and the Counter-Terrorism Act 2024. He said that Governor Bird has taken to Facebook to issue false claims about the Act and has personally attacked his reputation as a state minister for Police. Minister Tsiamalili strongly stated that Governor Bird’s deliberate attempt to mislead the public and incite negative feedback against the government is both irresponsible and unlawful under the Cybercrime Act 2016. In terms of deliberate misinformation and abuse of public trust, he expressed deep concerns that Governor Bird as an elected leader, is choosing to distort facts and mislead the people on critical security matters. “Parliament’s standing orders are clear on how laws are made. The Counter-Terrorism Act 2024, like every other law, underwent three readings and a full debate on the floor of Parliament before it was passed with an overwhelming majority vote of 84-0.” “The Governor is correct in admitting that he is not a lawyer. However, as a lawmaker, he has a duty to uphold the legislative process and refrain from misrepresenting laws that he participated in passing. His current rhetoric suggests either a lack of understanding of the law or a deliberate attempt to mislead the public for political gain.” In addition, Minister Tsiamalili also spoke on the irresponsible use of social media and legal consequences where he cautioned Governor Bird about the dangers of using social media platforms to spread false information and incite public discontent. “Governor Bird has chosen to use Facebook, not parliamentary debate to make reckless and defamatory statements against my office and the government. If he had genuine concerns, he had every opportunity to raise them within Parliament where he is protected by parliamentary privilege.” “But outside of Parliament his baseless allegations amount to libel and are subject to legal consequences. The Cybercrime Act 2016 is clear on the unlawful use of digital platforms to spread false information with the intent to incite public disorder and defame individuals. No elected leader is above the law.” Minister Tsiamalili also clarified the Counter-Terrorism Act 2024 reaffirming that the Counter-Terrorism Act is solely focused on combating violent crime and does not infringe upon constitutional rights. “The Act specifically targets serious violence, terrorist activities, and organized crime. It criminalizes acts such as assassination attempts on public officials, ethnic violence, and orchestrated terror campaigns. “It does not restrict free speech, lawful protests, or academic discourse, as falsely claimed by Governor Bird. I commend our students nationwide who were not misled and continued their forums and debates responsibly.” Moreover, in terms of regulating social media in national security interests, he also addressed concerns regarding the temporary restriction of Facebook, a move that was necessary to maintain national security. “The decision to regulate Facebook was not made lightly. Discussions on social media regulation have been ongoing for years under previous governments, with consultation from NICTA and DICT. “Section 17 of the Act empowers the Police Commissioner to issue directives to prevent terrorist activities and stop violence before it escalates. The temporary restriction of Facebook was one such directive, executed to safeguard lives and prevent widespread unrest. “I commend the Police Commissioner for taking decisive action when needed. Preventing violence sometimes requires tough but necessary decisions.” Furthermore, Minister Tsiamalili also stressed on holding leaders accountable for their statements calling on Governor Bird to act responsibly and to stop misleading the public with reckless statements. “Governor Bird should denounce criminals and warlords instead of using this platform to attack law enforcement efforts. “I urge him to respect his role as a Parliamentary leader, exercise responsible communication, and stop inciting public discord through misleading Facebook posts. “As Police Minister, my priority remains ensuring the safety of our people, upholding the rule of law, and protecting the integrity of national security operations. “I will not allow misinformation and personal attacks to distract from our duty to serve the nation.”

In a true demonstration of faith in action, the Methodist Church in Papua New Guinea donated materials worth over K20, 000 to the PNG Red Cross Special Education Resource Centre. The contribution comprising critical fencing materials, building materials for repair and maintenance, stationaries, a refrigerator, and a water dispenser was for the school and students with special needs. This follows the Methodist Church’s line of work as this act of giving stems from following Christ’s teachings. Head of Social Welfare Committee Glory Garden Methodist Tian En Church, Raymond Tu, said that as a body of Christ, they walk the talk of servitude. “Our bi-monthly social-care programs identify communities in need, ensuring we uplift lives while reminding others of God’s provision.” The donations which align with the church’s core value; ‘to give is greater than to gain’, will address urgent needs such as maintenance, teaching materials at the centre, where lack of funding have often hindered and delayed progress. The fencing materials will secure the school’s perimeter, safeguarding the school yard and vulnerable students to ensure the environment is safe and conducive, while new furniture and stationery will help the teachers and in their learning. The PNG Red Cross Society’s Programs Manager, Philip Kupo, who was present to receive the donation, expressed gratitude on behalf of the school and the National Society. “This massive contribution will transform our school.” The school has been operating in its current location for more than fifty years serving children with special needs. However, the school had deteriorated over the years with limited resources to sustain it. “The new fencing and maintenance work will give a face lift to the school and improve the learning for the students.” In addition, Raymond hopes the gesture inspires broader action. He stated that partnering with schools like this is an investment in society’s future and further emphasized that every donation fosters inclusivity, breaks down barriers, and declares that every child deserves opportunity. The Methodist Church’s initiative reflects its ongoing dedication to tangible, faith-driven outreach. For the PNG Red Cross Special Education Resource Centre, this donation means equal opportunity, it means having a safe and productive environment to learn with adequate resources to enable them to be all they want to be. The Red Cross Inclusive Education Resource Centre is a school for children with special needs located at Hohola, Port Moresby. Furthermore, the centre currently accommodates over fifty students with disabilities.

A call to Prime Minister James Marape to step down from his role was made by the student body from the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) in an Open Forum Discussion that was held at the Waigani Campus, Port Moresby city. This forum organized by the Student Representative Council (SRC) gave student representatives a voice to raise their concerns regarding the current national issues that the country is facing. Provincial student representatives who represented the four regions in the country, spoke on pressing issues including the recent laws that were passed in parliament. SRC President, Clinton Maliaba, opened the forum urging all student representatives to speak using facts based on what they have researched as the SRC will take further actions based on the outcome. The key issues that were highlighted in Thursday's forum include the amendment act to section 145 of the constitution as well as the National Executive Act amendment and the Counter-Terrorism Act. UPNG East and West Sepik Student Union representative, Ephraim Kliwolo highlighted the Amendment to Section 145 of the Constitution, gives an 18-month grace period after a Vote of No Confidence motion has been moved against the sitting Prime Minister and proven unsuccessful. He stated that this is a dangerous and unconstitutional move that allows for the perpetuation of power, not for the good of the people, but for the personal gain of those in power. “This amendment is not just a threat to democracy; it is an outright attack on the sovereignty of the people. It is a clear indication that the Prime Minister and his government are willing to manipulate the laws to retain their grip on power. This is not the leadership we want, and we will not tolerate it.” Meanwhile, another issue he raised was on the National Executive Council (NEC) Act, particularly Section 8(4), which gives the NEC unchecked power to discuss national matters in secret and make decisions that cannot be challenged by the courts. “This is an undemocratic and authoritarian move that undermines the people's right to know and to have a say in the decisions that affect their lives.” “The people of Papua New Guinea deserve transparency, they deserve to have their voices heard, and they deserve a government that acts in their best interests, not in the interests of a select few. This Act must be amended now!” It is a problem due to the fact that whatever decisions the National Executive Council makes cannot be challenged in court as it is already a law. Also speaking at the forum was the President of the UPNG East New Britain Student Association, Margaret Simet who spoke on the Counter-Terrorism Act as one of the key issues highlighted in the forum. She said while the act claims to fight terrorism, the unclear definition of terrorism can lead to the suppression of free speech. “The law defines terrorism as influencing government actions and so if people criticize the government, then you and I could be labeled as terrorists.” “Restricting freedom of speech will never be an effective way to fight terrorism and we recommend that we be given a clear interpretation of the word terrorism and to specify the meaning.” “We also recommend that courts approval is needed to approve such actions such as shutting down certain social media platforms such as Facebook.”

Police Commissioner David Manning has announced the removal of Facebook restrictions after an anti- terrorism operation resulted in the identification of people involved in what the Commissioner said was a plot to wreak havoc in the country. He revealed that a counter-terrorism operation now is underway to apprehend two men connected to attempts to incite an act of terrorism. The identification of the two men and the dismantling of their criminal network follows extensive investigations over recent days, with the shutdown of the social media platform being part of that operation. Commissioner Manning confirmed the operation has involved a range of investigative mechanisms provided for under the Counter-Terrorism Act 2024. He confirmed recent police operations have reduced the immediacy of threat posed to communities and temporary restrictions on the Facebook social media platform have now been removed. “While the counter-terrorism operation remains ongoing, police action over the past hours has seen mitigation of the immediate threat to public safety. In this instance, a number of offenders leveraged the anonymity of the Facebook social media platform to issue threats of violence, incite violent conflict, and encourage acts that would harm communities and create social unrest," said the Commissioner. He said the volume and reach of these anonymous accounts mean the incitement of this criminal network spreads far and wide and taking immediate and decisive action in this instance has seen police identify the principal offenders, break apart this criminal network, and protect innocent communities from their malicious intentions. The focus of investigations has now turned to the identification of co-offenders, both citizen and expatriate, and the targeting financial assets in connection with this offending with accounts being frozen, funds confiscated, and assets seized. “Removing the money used by these criminals is essential to preventing them from starting up their activities again and threatening communities," Manning said. “Police take threats to the safety of our community seriously. We will not tolerate the abuse of ICT systems, artificial media content and misinformation to incite ethnic conflict, urge acts of violence or cause damage to critical infrastructure.” Now with Facebook restrictions removed, Manning is reminding people who use social media to do so with caution. Furthermore, the Commissioner expressed his appreciation for the responsible response from law-abiding citizens for their support for the temporary restriction. As investigation remain ongoing, further information will be released at an appropriate time.

Former Prime Minister and Member for Ialibu Pangia Peter O'Neil, has criticized Marape- Rosso government for embarrassing the country with draconian and silly ideas. He said this in reference to Monday’s purported test on controlling social media platform Facebook, which was carried out by the Police Ministry and department, leaving relevant agencies such as National Information and Communication Technology Authority (NICTA) and Ministry for Information Communication Technology unaware. O'Neil questions why the so called "test" happened on the same day Prime Minister James Marape attended court regarding the Paraka matter, not as a suspect, but as a State Witness. “Perhaps just a coincidence but clearly, our people, not just those active on social media, but most citizens find it troubling.” He claimed the police minister was surely acting on instructions from the Prime Minister to prevent social media activity. O'Neil said that this matter has made people even more frustrated, unhappy and suspicious of the Marape government who seems to be introducing legislations fundamentally changing not just the Constitution but people's national way of life. “We have become the laughingstock of our region with increasingly crazy ideas quickly becoming policy and law, all the while our economic fortunes are regressing rapidly, buried in debt and a cost-of-living crisis.” “Jobs and investor confidence have evaporated quicker than the false promises made by Marape.” He stated that Facebook had its problems, but it was also a valve to let off frustrations for many people who are rightly upset at the direction the country is heading. He added that Facebook was also a positive tool for social connection, to share ideas and information and for a space where businesses can trade. “Government should have a laser focus on fixing the economic mess and settling the law-and-order issues. There is a litany of broken promises to make good on, mines to reopen, major projects to start and debt to pay back.” “Children need to be educated, hospitals and health clinics suffering from government malaise which all need to be looked at and addressed. Not micromanaging every thought of our people.” Meanwhile, Police Commissioner David Manning in a statement said due to ongoing efforts by criminals to incite violence against communities and damage critical infrastructure, a temporary and partial restriction on the Facebook platform has been ordered under the Counter Terrorism Act 2024.