PNG Haus Bung

Education Minister Francis Kikin Siune has condemned the recent outbreak of violence involving secondary school students in the National Capital District (NCD), warning that schools must remain as places of learning and not centres of criminal behaviour.His comments follow a violent confrontation involving students from two secondary schools that caused public concern, damaged property and disrupted public order.Minister Siune threw his full support behind the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary's decision to arrest and charge students involved in the violence."Schools are for learning, not fighting. No student is above the law," he said.The Minister commended NCD Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab and police for taking a firm stance against student violence."I fully support Superintendent Warrick Simatab and the NCD Police in treating violent students as criminals," he said. "When a student commits assault, destroys property or acts violently, police action is essential. Being a student is not an excuse to escape the law."Minister Siune said the National Department of Education, led by Secretary Dr Uke Kombra, fully supports the police response and will continue working with schools to strengthen discipline and student engagement.He said school boards, principals and administrations have been directed to take swift disciplinary action against students involved in violence, including suspension or permanent expulsion where necessary."School administrations that fail to enforce strict discipline will also be held accountable," he said.The Minister also appealed directly to students to prioritise their education and avoid being influenced by peer pressure, social media or unnecessary conflict."Your parents sacrifice so much for your future. Don't ruin your life over peer pressure, social media or foolish pride," he said. "Choose education over violence and respect over conflict. Your future is worth more than a senseless fight."Minister Siune said while the Government continues to invest in initiatives such as free education and standards-based learning, maintaining discipline in schools requires the combined efforts of parents, schools, churches and communities.He highlighted the Department's implementation of Christian and Citizenship Values Education (CCVE) from Early Childhood Education as part of efforts to instil moral values and responsible citizenship from an early age.The Minister reassured parents, students and the wider public that the Department of Education, together with police and school administrations, would continue to enforce a zero-tolerance approach to school violence to ensure schools remain safe, orderly and conducive to learning.

Prime Minister James Marape has strongly condemned an armed ambush on Enga Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Chief Superintendent Steven Harris and his team, describing the incident as a direct attack on the rule of law and the authority of the State.Chief Superintendent Harris was travelling in a police convoy near Yaltep, just before the Sirunki Strawberry Farm, to arrest suspects tied to an ongoing murder investigation when gunmen opened fire without warning.Three police reservists accompanying Harris immediately shielded him from the gunfire, returned fire, and helped secure the area.Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) personnel who heard the shooting swiftly responded to support the team, allowing the police commander to safely continue his journey.Prime Minister Marape commended Harris, the reservists, and the PNGDF personnel for their bravery and discipline under extreme danger.“This was a cowardly and calculated attack on a senior police officer who was carrying out his constitutional duty to uphold the law and protect the people of Enga,” Prime Minister Marape said.“I strongly condemn this ambush. An attack on our police personnel is an attack on the State, the rule of law and every law-abiding citizen who wants to live in peace.”“I commend Chief Superintendent Steven Harris for remaining calm and focused under fire. I also pay special tribute to the three police reservists who placed themselves between their commander and the gunfire.”“Their courage, loyalty and quick response helped protect lives and demonstrated the highest traditions of service.”“I also thank the PNG Defence Force personnel who responded to the sound of gunfire and helped secure the area.”“This cooperation between our police and defence personnel is vital as we restore peace, security and respect for the law in Enga.”Prime Minister Marape emphasized that the Government will not allow armed criminals to intimidate public servants, police, or local communities, warning that the full force of the law will be brought against those responsible, as well as anyone providing them with assistance, shelter, or weapons.“The criminals responsible must understand that they cannot hide forever,” he said. “I call on community leaders, churches, councilors and ordinary citizens in the area to cooperate with police and provide information that will lead to the identification and arrest of the gunmen.”“Anyone protecting these criminals is helping to prolong violence and suffering in Enga.”Reflecting on the ongoing risks frontline personnel face, the Prime Minister noted that police officers, reservists, and PNGDF members put their lives on the line daily to protect communities across Papua New Guinea.He reaffirmed the Government’s pledge to strengthen law enforcement operations and support long-term peacebuilding efforts.“These men and women leave their families and place themselves in danger to protect our communities.”“They deserve the support, respect and cooperation of every Papua New Guinean.”“The Government remains committed to strengthening police operations, restoring law and order and supporting long-term peacebuilding in Enga.”“We will not surrender any part of Papua New Guinea to criminals, tribal fighters or those who believe the barrel of a gun places them above the law.”Addressing citizens directly, particularly those in Maramuni, Marape urged people to use lawful channels to air grievances rather than turning to violence, pointing out that two wrongs do not make a right.“I want to remind the people of Maramuni, and indeed all Papua New Guineans, that if you have legitimate concerns or grievances, there is no need to resort to lawlessness to have your voices heard,” Prime Minister Marape urged.“If your concerns are not being addressed at the district or provincial level, raise them again through the proper channels.”“If necessary, submit your petitions or letters to the Enga Provincial Government and to the National Government in Port Moresby. Someone within the machinery of government will attend to your concerns. Two wrongs do not make a right.”“Breaking the law is never the answer to resolving legitimate issues. Our democracy provides lawful avenues for citizens to seek justice and accountability, including peaceful petitions and, where necessary, the courts.”Looking ahead as the country moves beyond its 50th anniversary, the Prime Minister called on all Papua New Guineans to embrace peaceful resolution and protect Enga’s future from being held hostage by armed criminals.“Peaceful advocacy will always achieve more than violence or intimidation. You do not need to fight the Government to have your concerns heard.”“Raise them through the proper processes, and I have every confidence that someone, somewhere within our system of government will respond.”“To Chief Superintendent Harris and his team, I say: The Government and the people of Papua New Guinea stand with you. Remain strong, continue your duties professionally and know that your courage is recognized and deeply appreciated.”“Enga has produced many outstanding leaders, professionals, public servants and businesspeople. Its future must not be held hostage by a small number of armed criminals.”“The people deserve peace, development and the freedom to move, work, learn and raise their families without fear.”“Let us all work together to restore lasting peace, uphold the rule of law and build a stronger and more united Papua New Guinea.”

The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA), in partnership with FIFA, successfully conducted a five-day FIFA Member Association (MA) Instructors Course from July 27th-31st, 2026, at the PNGFA Education Centre in Lae, Morobe province.Facilitated by FIFA Instructor Michael Fabian alongside Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Technical Instructor Ben Niso and Regional Fitness Instructor Kennedy Yambundimi, the programme brought together 25 participants representing all four regions of Papua New Guinea.This initiative reinforces PNGFA’s commitment to building a highly skilled network of coach educators nationwide.PNGFA Chief Operating Officer Stanley Khanna officially opened and closed the course, commending the participants for their dedication to advancing football education.The workshop aimed to equip instructors with the latest knowledge, teaching methodologies, and practical skills required of modern football educators.Through a blend of classroom sessions, practical field activities, and collaborative learning, participants enhanced their capacity to deliver high-quality coaching programmes within their home regions.Speaking at the closing ceremony, Mr. Khanna acknowledged FIFA and the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) for their continued support in strengthening local football development.“Our instructors play a critical role in shaping the next generation of coaches across the country.”“By investing in their education, we are investing in the future of football in Papua New Guinea.”“We sincerely thank FIFA and OFC for their continued commitment to developing our people and raising coaching standards.”FIFA Instructor Michael Fabian praised the participants for their enthusiasm and willingness to learn throughout the week, encouraging them to apply their new skills to foster regional growth.Additionally, PNGFA extended its appreciation to the Presidents of Member Associations who supported the programme by covering participant expenses, demonstrating a crucial investment in regional technical structures.This FIFA MA Instructors Course reflects FIFA’s ongoing commitment to building capacity and ensuring coaching standards align with internationally recognized levels.Moving forward, PNGFA remains dedicated to establishing sustainable development pathways through continuous professional education for coaches, instructors, and technical personnel across the country.

The Maimai’s in New Ireland province yesterday turned up at the New Ireland Provincial Administration office building, dressed up in their traditional attire to protest and demand the immediate resignation of current Provincial Administrator – Mr. Richard Andia.In a media conference held in Port Moresby yesterday, New Ireland Governor, Byron Chan said that he was informed of the protest carried out by concerned chiefs, elders and community representatives of the Maimai’s, placing traditional taboos at the provincial administration building.He said the protest is in relation to the recent orders by the Prime Minister to suspend underperforming public officers from the National level down to the Provincial level.Governor Chan highlighted that he is aware of the decision and the Provincial Executive Council has already deliberated on the matter by agreeing to the resignation of Mr. Andia.“We have just received the letter from the Public Service Commission to proceed with the appointment of the new administrator, and we will be doing so on my return to the province this week.“The process has already started, and I just want to reaffirm our decision (PEC’s decision) to proceed with the resignation of our current Administrator, Mr. Richard Andia. However, processes are there and we must not overlook it, but it will take time,” said Governor Chan.The New Ireland Governor has asked the people, especially the Maimai Leaders, Chiefs and elders to withdraw from what they’re doing, and patiently wait for the process to fulfil itself as everyone is subject to the laws of Papua New Guinea.   Chan returns to the Province on Thursday this week and will call a provincial executive council meeting to further discuss this matter.

A total of 23 children were among 58 victims displaced by sorcery accusation-related violence (SARV) who have received food, accommodation and logistical support from Tribal Foundation, so to attend court hearings in Simbu and Port Moresby since June.PNG Tribal Foundation continues to work tirelessly to support families affected by Sorcery Accusation Related Violence (SARV). These are families who are displaced from their homes and land. They have been provided with food supplies, accommodation, transport, and other logistical support to travel from their villages to attend court hearings.GT Bustin, President of Tribal Foundation said two SARV cases from Gumine and Chuave districts, which occurred in July 2023, are still before the court in Kundiawa. The eyewitnesses and victims were assisted with logistical support, accommodation and food while staying in Kundiawa attending their case with police and court officials.Police were also assisted with fuel to transport eyewitnesses from their locations to Kundiawa.In Port Moresby, two SARV cases involving displaced families living in undisclosed locations included 27 victims, among them are thirteen children. In another case, a displaced family of nine, including six children, the youngest is nine months old with both parents received food supplies and rental bills paid.Mr. Bustin said the organisation had paid airfares for three eyewitnesses, and four children who will travel this week on either MAF or Niugini Aviation flights to Kundiawa to assist police with investigations on recent SARV incident in Wenaiyo village, Salt Nomane District.“We have a CID officer who has worked closely on the Karimui case, ensuring all evidence is collected and properly documented for the 15 suspects currently in custody to face the law,” he said.“We are currently monitoring and looking after four injured victims at Kundiawa General Hospital, two guardians, a widow, and another seven people who are travelling from Karimui to Kundiawa to assist police with the investigations.”He said police had also sought assistance to cover stationery costs, including printing, photocopying and binding court documents for the case, and we are also looking at supporting them.“We have given police our full support over the years, and we appreciate the important work they do in helping innocent victims seek justice,” he said.

The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) intelligence capability has just been boosted with the recent graduation of a platoon of intelligence operators.The PNGDF ability to analyse and respond to the strategic environment has been strengthened following the graduation of 30 intelligence operators from the Intelligence Operators Course last month.Held over three weeks under the Defence Cooperation Program (DCP), the course taught participants how to collect information, analyse it, and report their findings. Through classroom learning and practical exercises, graduates learned how to apply core intelligence skills in realistic situations. The training gives participants the knowledge and confidence to deliver timely, accurate and relevant intelligence support to PNGDF commanders and teams.The course graduation ceremony was attended by the Deputy Secretary of the Department of Defence, Ms Doreen Joel, who presented awards to the students who achieved the highest standards during the training.PNGDF Second Lieutenant Mark Tommy received the Officer's Award, while Lance Corporal Simon Bonny was awarded the Soldier's Award in recognition of their outstanding performance and commitment throughout the course.PNGDF Chief of Defence Intelligence, Colonel John Manuai, congratulated the graduates on their achievement and highlighted the importance of intelligence capability to the force's future readiness.“The graduates' commitment to intellectual curiosity and critical thinking has set a strong foundation for their development as trusted advisors to their commanders and teams,” Colonel Manuai said.“The resilience, dedication and professionalism demonstrated throughout the course reflect the high standards expected of intelligence operators and will contribute to strengthening the PNGDF's operational capability.”Ms. Joel said the course reflected the enduring value of defence cooperation between Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Australia.“The partnership between the PNGDF and Australia continues to strengthen as friendships and professionalism grow through courses like this one,” Ms Joel said.Australian Defence Advisor, Colonel Nicholas Trotter, said the participants demonstrated exceptional commitment throughout the training.“A high level of enthusiasm was evident among all the students from day one of the course. Their dedication every day to this robust course is testament to their keen desire to become intelligence professionals,” Colonel Trotter said.“This hands-on learning shows how we are strengthening the PNG-Australia alliance and deepening our partnership at a people-to-people level.”Australia continues to work side by side with PNG to support PNGDF personnel through training, skills exchange and capability-building activities. These opportunities exemplify the defence alliance between PNG and Australia, improving the capability and interoperability of the two forces.

Tari Airport will receive its first dedicated airport fire station following the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the National Airports Corporation (NAC), the Hela Provincial Government and the PNG Fire & Rescue Service.The agreement aims to strengthen aviation safety and emergency response at Tari Airport while also improving fire protection for Tari Town and surrounding communities.NAC Board Chairman Jacob Anga said airport operations and fire services must work hand in hand, particularly as Hela continues to grow."Airport and Fire Service go hand in hand. With Hela's rapid economic growth, this facility is essential to mitigate risks and safeguard lives and infrastructure."Hela Governor Philip Undialu welcomed the partnership, saying the province has major public investments that require protection."We have hundreds of millions of kina worth of infrastructure assets that require protection, and a Fire Station is a crucial priority. The Hela Provincial Government stands ready to support this partnership in every way possible."PNG Fire & Rescue Service Chief Fire Officer Bill Roo said one of two new fire trucks expected to arrive in September will be deployed to Tari."We have been proactively preparing for a Fire Station there, and this agreement is timely. We've already appointed a Fire Commander for Tari and will recruit fire officers. PNG Fire & Rescue Service will play its part in keeping both the airport and Tari Town fire safe."Under the agreement, NAC will assist in constructing and operating the airport fire station, provide land within the airport boundary, and support operations with a vehicle and a 15-seater bus.The three partners will also work together on emergency planning, training exercises and disaster response to ensure emergency teams are prepared to respond quickly to incidents affecting the airport and surrounding communities.Commissioned in 2023, Tari Airport forms part of NAC's nationwide airport redevelopment program aimed at improving aviation infrastructure and safety across Papua New Guinea.

The prime minister is back in country after returning from Vanuatu where he was guest of honor at their 46th Independence Anniversary, and now, he wants to explore investment opportunities there.Prime Minister James Marape has announced that Papua New Guinea (PNG) would soon dispatch a business delegation comprising representatives of major Papua New Guinean institutions, including superannuation funds and the Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC), to explore investment opportunities in Vanuatu.“We believe there is enormous potential for Papua New Guinean businesses to partner with Vanuatu. However, wherever our businesses operate, they must respect local landowners, local communities and the national government, just as we expect foreign investors in Papua New Guinea to respect our own model of local participation.”He said PNG had encouraged Vanuatu to pursue similar investment principles that ensure local communities share in the benefits of economic development. The prime minister also highlighted the potential for closer regional tourism cooperation, noting Vanuatu’s strategic location and attractive investment environment.“Vanuatu has one of the Pacific’s most attractive investment climates and enormous tourism potential.”This and Papua New Guinea’s expanding international air services from destinations such as Japan, China and Singapore, can complement regional tourism by connecting visitors throughout Melanesia, including Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea.“Likewise, visitors arriving through Fiji, Australia, New Zealand and the United States can be encouraged to explore more of our Melanesian region.”

The Chief Secretary to the Government, Ivan Pomaleu has clarified the legal process governing the appointment of Papua New Guinea's Electoral Commissioner, following public speculation over the possible appointment of a non-citizen to the role.Mr. Pomaleu said the Government remains committed to upholding the Constitution and the country's laws in all appointments to constitutional offices, stressing that such decisions are guided by the legal framework established by Parliament and independent legal advice, not political preference.He said the appointment process is governed by Section 126(7) of the Constitution and Part II of the Organic Law on National and Local-level Government Elections. Under the law, the Head of State appoints the Electoral Commissioner on the advice of the Electoral Commission Appointments Committee, a process designed to protect the independence of the office.Mr. Pomaleu also clarified that neither the Constitution nor the Organic Law requires the Electoral Commissioner to be a Papua New Guinea citizen.He said while the Organic Law outlines qualifications, disqualifications, restrictions and the term of office, it does not make citizenship a condition for appointment. He added that where Parliament intends citizenship to be a mandatory requirement for a public office, it has explicitly stated so in legislation, which is not the case for the Electoral Commissioner position.

The Basketball Federation of Papua New Guinea (BFPNG) has elected new board members during its 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM) over the weekend, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening the sport across the country.The Annual General Meeting (AGM), held on Saturday at TAIC, saw Simon Dixie re-elected as Vice President, Kathy Araea elected as General Secretary, replacing Gosa Jack and Naomie Lopes elected as an Ordinary Board Member.BFPNG President David Peter said the federation has made significant progress in rebuilding stakeholder confidence through improved governance and international achievements, including Papua New Guinea's historic qualification for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in 3x3 basketball.Mr. Peter said the federation will continue to focus on strengthening competitions, coaching, officiating, affiliated associations and player development with the vision of becoming Oceania's leading national sporting federation both on and off the court.He also acknowledged the service of outgoing General Secretary Gosa Jack, thanking him for his leadership and contribution to the development of basketball in Papua New Guinea.The AGM marks another milestone in BFPNG's efforts to strengthen governance and create more opportunities for basketball communities nationwide.

The National Capital District Metropolitan Command has warned that students involved in school fights and other violent incidents in Port Moresby city, will be arrested and charged where criminal offences are committed.In a media statement, Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab condemned the recent rise in school violence, describing the behavior as unacceptable and saying police would take a zero-tolerance approach."Schools are places of learning, not violence, and students who choose to engage in public fighting, destroy property, intimidate others or disturb public order will be treated as offenders under the law," Superintendent Simatab said.He had directed all Police Station Commanders and Unit Commanders across the NCD Metropolitan Command to arrest and charge any student or individual involved in school fights where criminal offences had been committed."Being a student does not place anyone above the law," he said.Superintendent Simatab also called on school Boards of Management and administrations to take firm disciplinary action against repeated offenders, including suspension or expulsion where appropriate and in accordance with school policies and the law."There must be clear consequences for behavior that endanger others and disrupts education," he said.He urged students to focus on their education and avoid allowing peer pressure or social media influence to derail their future."Your parents, guardians and sponsors make great sacrifices and invest their hard-earned money in your future. Do not throw away those opportunities because of peer pressure, social media influence, or senseless school fights."He also encouraged students to respect their parents, teachers, schools, and themselves.The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, he said, remains committed to working closely with schools, parents and communities to maintain safe learning environments throughout the nation's capital."Violence has no place in our schools or our city," Superintendent Simatab said.He ended his message with a direct appeal to young people: "Choose education over violence. Choose respect over conflict. Your future is worth more than one fight."

South Pacific Brewery (SP Brewery) has contributed K5,000 to the Enga Cultural Show Committee to support preparations for the 2026 Enga Cultural Show, reinforcing its commitment to promoting culture, community unity and tourism in Papua New Guinea (PNG).The annual festival will be held from Friday, 7 August to Sunday, 9 August 2026 in Wabag, Enga Province, bringing together communities to celebrate the province’s diverse traditions, customs, and cultural heritage.During the cheque presentation, SP Brewery External Affairs Manager Luke Beliga reaffirmed the company’s support for the event and its role in promoting cultural preservation and community development.“SP Brewery is delighted to sponsor the 2026 Enga Cultural Show. We believe this event will continue to promote the culture of Enga, foster a safe and peaceful community, and boost tourism in the province,” Beliga said.He added that the cultural show aligns with SP Brewery’s commitment to encouraging unity and togetherness among communities.“The show aligns closely with our purpose of fostering the joy of true togetherness, and we are grateful for the opportunity to help bring communities together while celebrating the diverse cultures that make Papua New Guinea unique,” he said.Enga Cultural Show Committee Chairlady Margaret Potane thanked SP Brewery for its continued partnership and contribution towards the successful staging of the event.“The Enga Cultural Show is a celebration of our traditions, including our costumes, dances, chants, rituals and unique cultural skills. It is also an opportunity to showcase the strength and resilience of our culture in the face of modern influences,” Potane said.She said SP Brewery’s sponsorship demonstrated its commitment to preserving cultural heritage, supporting local communities and strengthening the spirit of unity represented by the festival.The Enga Cultural Show remains one of Papua New Guinea’s significant cultural events, providing a platform for communities to showcase traditional practices while promoting cultural awareness and tourism.As part of its corporate social responsibility initiatives, SP Brewery continues to support community programs and cultural events that preserve and promote Papua New Guinea’s rich cultural diversity.