Bulolo MP and Shadow Minister for Transport, Civil Aviation, and Correctional Services, Sam Basil Jr has shared his plan to improve Papua New Guinea’s transport and civil aviation sector. The plan was announced on Wednesday September 4th in a statement ahead of the Vote of No Confidence, expected this September proceedings. “There have been many calls for Alternative Government Policies, and I have made it clear that in the absence of any new Government or Ministerial Policy Statement, we cannot provide an Alternative Policy." He added that the country already has many big plans like Vision 2050, Strategic Development Plan 2030, and the National Transport Sector Plan, but what is missing is strong leadership to make these plans work. “What the country needs is leadership, direction, and supervision to implement key impact policies,” he said. "As Shadow Minister for Civil Aviation and Transport, I bring my experience as Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Civil Aviation and also Member of Parliamentary Committee on ICT and the Public Accounts Committee and National Research Institute Council and I am proud to stand with the Alternate Government in announcing our resolute commitment to transforming Papua New Guinea's Transport and Civil A viation sector." Basil also suggested that the current Marape-Rosso government has not focused on making the transport and civil aviation sectors better; thus, slowing down the country’s development and causing problems for the people, especially those living in rural areas. "The Marape Government's failure to prioritize and modernize these critical sectors has left Papua New Guinea lagging behind in terms of connectivity, safety, and efficiency." "The current state of our transport infrastructure and civil aviation services is a significant impediment to economic growth, social development, and the overall well-being of our people," further stating that, "Our (Alternative Government's) Strategic Policy Action Plan, which was meticulously developed over the past six months, represents a bold and necessary step towards rescuing our nation and setting it on a new trajectory of development." Basil outlined these key points in his plan to improve these areas: 1.Regulatory Reforms: Basil said they will reduce government delays and create a new body to oversee transport safety. 2. Capacity Building: He said they will invest in training to ensure workers in transport and civil aviation are ready for the future. 3. Infrastructure Modernization: Basil said they will fix and expand roads, bridges, ports, and airports, especially in rural areas. 4. Enhancing Civil Aviation: They plan to improve airport facilities and air traffic systems. This will help regional airports grow and boost tourism. 5. Service Quality Improvement: He said the plan will focus on better transport services with regular maintenance and customer service. 6. Public-Private Partnerships: Basil wants the private sector to help build and improve the transport system. 7. Sustainability and Innovation: He said the plan will include eco-friendly solutions to reduce carbon emissions in transport. "The Alternate Government's Strategic Policy Action Plan is not just a promise; it is a solemn commitment to the people." "We are fully prepared to implement these policies from Day One in office, knowing that our country urgently needs liberation from the gross mismanagement and neglect of the current government." Basil ended his statement by saying, "The time for change is now, and we are ready to deliver the modern, efficient, and world-class transport and civil aviation sector that our people deserve."

Papua New Guinea (PNG) is ready to welcome Pope Francis for his visit starting today Friday, 6 September 2024. Prime Minister (PM) James Marape expressed the nation's excitement and respect for the Pope’s visit, acknowledging his dual role as both the Head of the Vatican and the Head Bishop of the Roman Catholic Church. "Papua New Guinea is ready to welcome His Holiness, Pope Francis, to our country." "I want to appreciate him and the Vatican for choosing to visit us amidst his very busy schedule," said Marape. The PM urged the people of PNG to unite and show their best hospitality during the papal visit. He noted the importance of this visit, especially as the country is close to its 49th Independence anniversary and approaching the 50th anniversary next year. He also reflected on the significance of such visits from global religious leaders, mentioning the earlier visit of the Seventh Day Adventist Church leader earlier this year. Marape also highlighted the role Christianity plays in PNG's society, emphasising that Christian values are vital to nation-building and help unite the country despite its vast ethnic and cultural diversity. "As a nation, we cannot live outside our Christian virtues. The fundamental tenets of Christianity call for unity, peace, tolerance, forgiveness, love, care, and doing unto others what you want done unto you. These are deeply ingrained in the Christian worldview," he said. He added that Christianity is a unifying force in PNG, helping the people live in peace and harmony despite their differences. The Prime Minister praised the Catholic Church for its long history and contributions to Papua New Guinea, both before and after Independence. He acknowledged the Church’s efforts to unite tribal communities and support development in education, health, and other important sectors. "The Catholic Church arrived as early as 1845 in PNG, and taught our parochially tribalistic people to open up, to embrace people from other tribes and cultures, and helped unite our people into one. The Catholic Church assisted the government to bring in development, and today, continues to contribute to nation-building," said Marape. According to the Prime Minister's statement this afternoon, during the Pope’s visit, Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso will oversee the official events from Friday evening until Saturday, while Prime Minister Marape observes the Sabbath. Ministers and Members of Parliament have also been assigned to attend the meetings with the Pope during his visit, according to the Prime Minister's statement. The official program states that the Pope will be arriving this evening at 6:50pm at the Jackson's International Airport in Port Moresby city. Christians and Catholic faithfuls, National Leaders and city residents are being advised to welcome the Pope by battery operated candle lights. Pope Francis is understood to be visiting PNG from Indonesia. Prime Minister Marape says he and his wife, Rachael, will meet the Pope on Sunday before he leads a church service in the capital city. The Prime Minister will officially farewell Pope Francis on Monday as he departs from Port Moresby.

The Opposition have successfully filed and submitted the notice of Vote of No Confidence (VoNC) and this has been received by the Speaker and Clerk. Parliament sitting resumed this morning with the Speaker Job Pomat announcing to parliament that he has received the notice for a VONC from the Opposition at 3 minutes to 10am this morning. The notice will now be brought to the Private Members Committee at 12pm to be deliberated on. If all requirements are met, then it will be put on the notice paper tomorrow where it will go through a week before coming to the floor of Parliament for the actual VONC. More details to follow shortly on this story... Keep following PNG HAUSBUNG and listen in to the news on NAU FM, Yumi FM and Legend FM at 12 and 1pm.

Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika delivered compelling opening remarks during the Continuing Legal Education (CLE) session on Disputes & Commercial Law held yesterday, September 3rd, at the Crown Hotel in Port Moresby. Addressing an audience of lawyers, Legal Training Institute (LTI) students, and other legal professionals, Sir Gibbs highlighted the critical importance of ongoing education within the legal profession in Papua New Guinea (PNG). In his address, Sir Gibbs underscored that obtaining a law degree does not automatically make one a lawyer. He clarified that only after completing legal training and being formally admitted by the courts can a graduate be recognized as a lawyer. “You don't take for granted that everybody who graduates with a law degree from the university is a lawyer. No, don't call yourself a lawyer after you graduate... You become a lawyer only after you’re admitted as one by the courts,” he asserted, emphasizing the structured process required for full legal admission. The Chief Justice also stressed the importance of mentorship, encouraging young lawyers to actively seek guidance from their more experienced colleagues. He highlighted that senior lawyers possess a wealth of knowledge and experience that is essential for the professional growth of younger practitioners. “Don’t be shy or afraid to seek advice or opinions from senior lawyers,” he advised, noting that the exchange of knowledge between generations is vital for the advancement of legal practice. Sir Gibbs’s remarks also touched on the broader need for continuous professional development in the legal field. He expressed that ongoing learning is essential for maintaining a competent and effective legal profession, which in turn, upholds the rule of law and justice in Papua New Guinea. The Chief Justice’s address set a strong foundation for the CLE session, reinforcing the critical role of education and mentorship in shaping a robust legal community in PNG.

The Continuing Legal Education session on Disputes and Commercial Law will be held later today, September 3rd, at the Crown Hotel in Port Moresby. It is a gathering lawyers and Legal Training Institute (LTI) students for an insightful program aimed at enhancing legal practice in Papua New Guinea. The event is also accessible online for a wider audience. The session begins at 3:00 PM. Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika is slated to give the opening remarks, emphasizing the importance of continuous professional development in the legal sector. PNG Law Society President, Mr. Hubert Namani will also give an update on the society's recent activities and initiatives. The first session, focuses on Commercial Law Developments, featured Wavie Kendino Leki, Managing Partner at Dentons, who presented on common legal issues in business and investment in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Following this, Valentina Kaman, Manager Legal and Company Secretary for the Ok Tedi Land Co. Group at MRDC, will discuss the management of project area landowner benefits and trust systems, highlighting the need for stronger beneficiary participation in PNG. Erica Kaumi, representing the PNG Women Lawyer’s Association, will chair this discussion. This event is to provide valuable insights into key legal issues, contributing to the professional growth of Papua New Guinea’s legal community.

Former PNG Power Limited Chairman McRonald Nale is seeking a judicial review of his removal from office on August 14th. Nale has filed a lawsuit naming State Enterprises Minister William Duma and others. The National Court in Waigani, presided by Justice Susan Purdon-Sally, heard the case today, September 3rd. While Nale’s counsel was ready to proceed with an application leave to apply for judicial review, the State requested more time to prepare, with the hearing rescheduled for September 5th. Nale's removal by the government led to the appointment of board director Malcolm Lewis as the new chairman. Prime Minister (PM) James Marape had justified the decision, citing the need for new leadership to address the persistent power issues in Lae and Port Moresby. Marape expressed frustration over ongoing blackouts despite significant government investment in PNG Power, amounting to over K300 million in the last three years. “McRonald Nale had his opportunity, but we need new leadership at the board level,” Marape reportedly stated in a press conference on August 15th in Port Moresby. He emphasized Lewis' task of auditing the utility company’s financials and resolving grid problems urgently. Marape  had further expressed confidence in Lewis’ capabilities, describing him as a "no-nonsense" leader who will run PNG Power like a business while fulfilling its community obligations. Nale was appointed chairman in May 2023, along with Lewis and other directors. His legal counsel expressed concern over the urgency of the judicial review, noting the possibility of a permanent appointment to his former position, but Justice Purdon-Sally dismissed the urgency, stating that the matter could be heard a few days later without any prejudice to Nale. The court will reconvene on September 5th for further proceedings, by which time the State would have filed and served its submissions by 4pm a day before.

Minister for Bougainville Affairs, Manasseh Makiba, has provided K100,000 to the family of the late Simon Dumarinu, Member for Central Bougainville, to assist with funeral expenses. The support was given during the official Haus Krai held on Wednesday, August 29th. The late Dumarinu passed away on August 9th, and his body is currently awaiting State viewing on Tuesday September 3rd when Parliament resumes. His final repatriation is scheduled for September 9th. Minister Makiba, accompanied by the Director of the National Coordination Office for Bougainville Affairs (NCOBA), Mr. Wemin Boj, and other staff members, attended the Haus Krai to pay their respects. In his remarks, Minister Makiba described the late Dumarinu as a humble leader who was deeply committed to the aspirations of Bougainville. "He never backed down to compromise," Makiba said, expressing sadness over the loss of a leader who was a strong advocate for Bougainville's development. In Parliament, Dumarinu was known for raising significant issues, particularly during question time. According to Minister Makiba, "He managed to raise significant issues to direct questions to me regarding the nation and Bougainville and triggered a collective debate amongst parliamentarians on the true standing on the Bougainville issue." "He is the only leader to have done so on the matter." The late Dumarinu was also recognized for his work in social development and his commitment to a five-year district development plan aimed at improving basic services and infrastructure in Central Bougainville. His dedication to ensuring fiscal self-reliance for both his district and Bougainville as a whole was unwavering. The Regional Member for Bougainville and Minister for Internal Security, Peter Tsiamalili, also praised the respect shown by Minister Makiba and NCOBA. He acknowledged the financial support, along with the provision of food and two pigs, as fitting tributes for a leader of Dumarinu's stature. Tsiamalili confirmed that the late Dumarinu's body would lay in State for viewing on September 3rd, with members scheduled to visit the Haus Krai throughout the first week of September, before the final departure of his body to Bougainville on September 9th. "We have not only lost him but also his wisdom and counsel," Tsiamalili said, reflecting on the void left by Dumarinu’s passing.

In a significant political development, Madang MP Bryan Kramer has announced his resignation from the Marape-Rosso government, citing deep concerns about the state of governance and the entrenchment of corruption in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Prime Minister (PM) James Marape, in response, expressed gratitude for Kramer’s service, acknowledging his contributions as a government minister. Bryan Kramer stated that his decision to resign was not made lightly. Reflecting on his initial support for Marape in 2019, Kramer noted, "My initial support for James Marape in 2019 was based solely on his being a man of strong Christian faith. However, upon careful reflection and in light of the current state of affairs in our country, I have made the decision to resign with a heavy heart but a clear conscience." Kramer emphasized the pressing challenges the nation faces, which he observed firsthand after returning to office following two years out of the government. He highlighted his experience across various ministerial portfolios, including Police, Justice & Attorney General, and Immigration & Labour, which gave him valuable insights into the inner workings of the National Executive Council (NEC) and broader government machinery. However, despite his efforts to promote transparency and good governance, Kramer expressed deep frustration with the systemic corruption he encountered. "Corruption has become so deeply entrenched in our government machinery, to the point where it has been normalized," he said, lamenting that this entrenched corruption has eroded the government’s ability to serve the people effectively. Prime Minister Marape, while accepting Kramer’s resignation, praised him for his strong advocacy for anti-corruption and good governance. "Something I can’t take away from Mr. Kramer is that he is a strong advocate for good governance and doing the right thing. This country needs leaders who are not infatuated with money or fame but who stand up to do what is right for the country," Marape said. Kramer pointed out that during his time in the NEC, he often found himself fighting to block harmful decisions that were being pushed on the Prime Minister by factions within the government. He expressed his belief that these factions were responsible for his frequent ministerial changes and ultimate exclusion from the Cabinet. "Regrettably, since my dismissal, the opportunity to fight bad decisions from within the government has been lost, enabling the widespread misuse of public funds with impunity," Kramer remarked. Prime Minister Marape acknowledged the challenges Kramer faced, noting his appointment in 2019 was based on the need for talent to fight corruption and develop the country. Marape recalled, "I made an unprecedented move in 2019 of appointing him and Sinasina-Yongomugl MP Kerenga Kua as ministers despite them not voting for me then to become prime minister." Kramer concluded his announcement by stating that he no longer has confidence in Marape's leadership as Prime Minister. He vowed to continue his fight against corruption from outside the government, emphasizing his commitment to the people of Madang and Papua New Guinea. "I entered politics to fight corruption and to ensure that all Papua New Guineans have access to the services we, as Members of Parliament, are mandated to provide," Kramer said. Prime Minister Marape expressed his hope to continue working with Kramer on areas of common interest, whether for Madang or national issues, despite their political differences. "I thank Bryan Kramer for all his contributions to Government as a minister, and I look forward to working with him," Marape added.

The East New Britain Pangu Pati block remains intact, following the return of Pomio MP Elias Kapavore to government. East New Britain Governor Michael Marum announced this on Sunday September 1st, when officially welcoming Kapavore back to the fold. Kapavore said he had never resigned as a Pangu member, during his three months with Opposition when he moved across with former Finance Minister and Alternative Prime Minister nominee Rainbo Paita before the last parliament session. Marum said all the national leaders in the province have a strong working relationship, and even when Kapavore had defected with the 12 other MPs to the Opposition, they were still working together. "At the recent gathering at Lolota... I remember Pomio MP was not there, and we (ENB MPs) started asking...we were trying to find out what was happening, where he was...so, we got together, and....had some discussions. I told the East New Britain leaders, including (Rabaul MP) Dr. Alan Marat, what had happened." "We were expecting a decision from the leader and been working. We never separated, inside the group of leaders of East New Britain and also, I think, most of us NGI." "Even after the (Parliament) session, if I go back, we all worked in all our districts, the province." "I remember Pomio MP and me contacting...and I told him to come back." "Thank you for coming back," Marum told Kapavore, further thanking the Prime Minister "for allowing" him to come back inside the party, and also the government. "The support that we got from the province over the line." "Just for the record, mipla ol (we) East New Britain leaders, our government, Fisheries Minister Jelta Wong and his staff, Dr. Alan Marat, and we pass on his apology for not being here today - he's got the flu." "And also, Kokopo MP Ereman ToBaining, we flew in together...so he could probably join us after. But, you know, we have a lot to do in the province." "Like, Prime Minister, he told me, Pomio MP." "There's a lot of plans where we would like, improve how our people are, how we can grow its agriculture, so in order for us to do that, probably the only best thing for us is to stay together in East New Britain and be in government." "On behalf of everyone of us, we are supporting this, and I look forward to work with you in government," Governor Marum said.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape on Sunday 1st September, officially announced the return of Elias Kapavore, the Member for Pomio, to the Pangu Pati and the Pangu-led government. Kapavore had previously joined the Opposition but decided to return after realizing that the Opposition lacked concrete plans to take over the government and ensure the development of his district. Kapavore explained that his decision to rejoin the government was driven by the need for continuity and stability to support development in his isolated district. He emphasized the importance of continuing the implementation of the Medium Term Development Plan IV, which had been launched in 2023, stating that it was crucial for the progress of his district. "I want to thank the Prime Minister for allowing me to come back." "It was not my intention to leave Pangu Pati." "It was a confusion that we went through," Kapavore said. He further stressed that the isolation of Pomio requires ongoing government support to ensure impactful development. Prime Minister Marape welcomed Kapavore back to the government, acknowledging the significance of his decision. Marape praised Kapavore's dedication to his electorate, noting that Pomio is a large and predominantly rural district that has been historically neglected. "Pomio is large in size. So, as a member of Pomio he's been doing a lot of work, and I've been privileged to visit this electorate more than two times in my recollections." "I'm happy that he's made it on his own free will, at least to come back and join them," Marape stated. The Prime Minister also addressed the political turmoil that had occurred earlier, explaining that many leaders were 'caught unaware' by the events that led to the split in the government. He mentioned that the former finance minister had mobilized members of parliament without fully informing them of the political undercurrents, which led to confusion and division within the government. However, Marape emphasized that Kapavore's return was a conscious choice, made after considering the importance of the government's focus on rural development. "Our focus, it's no secret, our greater focus is always on our rural PNG, where 80%, if not higher, of our people right across remain still in those rural enclaves. Pomio being one, predominantly, has been a district that has been left behind, and I am happy Governor Michale Marum is sitting also on the head table." "Their combination on the ground has been to really bring Pomio in touch with the rest of East New Britain as we work to unbundle all our rural areas of our potential," Marape said. The Prime Minister highlighted the government's ongoing projects in Pomio, including road connectivity, bridge construction, and investments in transport vessels like the MV Pomio 1 and MV Pomio 2. These projects are part of the government's broader strategy to unlock the potential of rural areas and improve the lives of people living in these regions. Marape also claimed that the Opposition lacks a clear leader and strategy, which may have influenced Kapavore's decision to return to the government. He suggested that the Opposition is still rotating the position of alternate prime minister, which has led to uncertainty and a lack of direction within their ranks. "In this September sitting, I expect some to go to the other side, and I expect also some to come up on this side." "It is totally dependent on their line of thinking in terms of the team that is involved to maintain government or form government going forward," Marape said, referring to the upcoming parliamentary session. Marape when welcoming Kapavore back to the Pangu-led government, acknowledging the importance of his decision in the context of the challenges facing the country. He emphasized that the government's focus on rural development, particularly in neglected areas like Pomio, is crucial for the progress of the nation. Marape expressed his appreciation for Kapavore's commitment to his electorate and his decision to rejoin the government to continue working towards the betterment of Papua New Guinea. The announcement was witnessed by various Cabinet Ministers and MPs in government at the Hilton Hotel on Sunday. East New Britain Governor Michael Marum also thanked Kapavore for returning, thus cementing the East New Britain block in government. Leader of the New Guinea Islands Pangu Pati block, Kavieng MP and Treasury Minister Ian Lingstuckey also passed on his acknowledgement of Kapavore's return.

Prime Minister (PM) and Pangu Pati Leader, James Marape, is confident as his government prepares to face the Vote of No Confidence (VONC) this week. The government coalition now boasts 80 members, strengthened by the return of Pomio MP, Elias Kapavore, to the Pangu Pati-led government, despite newly reinstated Madang MP Bryan Kramer announcing his resignation on Sunday, September 1st. "Eighty (80) is good for us, especially as we want to pursue constitutional matters in Parliament. Kapavore brings us up to 78 now. For Pangu, we have 10 from New Guinea Islands region, 19 from the New Guinea Highlands, 9 from Momase, and 10 from Southern region," stated Prime Minister Marape. Marape expressed confidence in maintaining stability, citing his experience in 2020 when his government weathered a similar challenge. "It’s nothing new; it comes with the territory. We are not in the business of deliberately dismantling the Opposition, which is important for our country’s governance, so I welcome any challenge," he added. He also emphasized the importance of a strong opposition for democracy but criticized the Opposition's tactics, accusing them of "buying time" by making procedural errors in their VONC motion. "Last time, when the Speaker ruled in their favour to have the motion on notice, technically, the Speaker overrode the Private Business Committee," Marape clarified. With the numbers on his side, Marape remains optimistic as the VONC approaches, underscoring that it is "business as usual" for his government and the country. He anticipates potential movements within Parliament but remains steadfast in his leadership.

A new clinic, named the Br Max Bouten SVD Memorial Town Clinic, has officially opened in Wirui, Wewak in late August 2024. This clinic is part of the East Sepik Province's expanding health system, which includes the Specialist Hospital at Boram, and other facilities being reopened across the province. Governor Allan Bird expressed his satisfaction at the clinic's opening, noting, "I was particularly pleased to open this clinic today because it is one of two in the country. This new clinic is intended to serve the people of Wewak Town and relieve the pressure on the main Sir Michael Somare Specialist Hospital at Boram." The project initially started years ago when the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare broke ground at Wirui, but it was delayed due to a lack of funding. Under the East Sepik Provincial Health Authority (PHA), a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) was signed between the East Sepik Provincial Government (ESPG), PHA, and the Catholic Diocese of Wewak. The clinic was built at a total cost of K4.6 million, with contributions from ESPG (K500,000 from PSIP), K2.1 million from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) under an Australian-funded program, and K2 million from the Catholic Church. Construction took two years to complete. The clinic will offer most services of a general hospital, with a doctor available for day services starting September 2nd. Governor Bird mentioned plans to expand the clinic into a 24-hour facility and eventually convert it into the Wewak District Hospital. He said a second town clinic is planned for Kreer Heights. Governor Bird also highlighted that the East Sepik PHA has secured K50 million from the World Bank to build 10 similar facilities around the province, including locations like Marienberg, Timbunke, and Walis Island. He thanked all partners involved, including Health Minister Dr Lino Tom, stating, "To our people of Wewak, service blo yupla. Lukautim gud building na ol wokman na wokmeri lo clinic."