As the Marape-Rosso Coalition Government today expressed enthusiasm over the return of another politician, Pomio MP Elias Kapavore, from the Opposition side, a few hours later, newly reinstated Madang MP Bryan Kramer announced his resignation the government as Parliament is set to resume this month, with a Vote of No Confidence on the agenda. A confident Prime Minister James Marape told local media today that he expects movements from both sides during this time, before Parliament sits on Tuesday, September 3rd. As for Kramer, on 22 August 2024, the National Court in Waigani reinstated his as Member for Madang Open Electorate following a ruling in his favour. This decision stays his Leadership Tribunal suspension and dismissal until judicial review proceedings are concluded. Following the decision, Kramer had stated that he is now focused on addressing local challenges and resuming his duties after nearly two years out of office. But today, September 1st, Kramer announced his resignation from the Marape-Rosso Coalition government, expressing gratitude to Prime Minister James Marape and Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso for the opportunity to serve under their leadership. "This decision was not made lightly," he stated. According to a statement, released from the Opposition this afternoon, Kramer said he initially supported Marape in 2019 due to Marape's strong Christian faith. However, after reflecting on the current state of the nation, Kramer decided to resign "with a heavy heart but a clear conscience." Upon returning to office after two years, he observed the severe challenges facing Papua New Guinea. During his time in government, Kramer held several ministerial positions under different administrations, including Minister for Police, Minister for Justice & Attorney General, and Minister for Immigration & Labour. These roles provided him with deep insights into the workings of the National Executive Council (NEC) and government machinery. Kramer emphasized that "transparency and good governance must be the cornerstones of our efforts to rebuild our nation," and stressed the importance of standing firmly against corruption. He added he believes corruption has become deeply entrenched in government, normalizing unethical behaviour after 49 years of independence. Kramer revealed that he spent much of his time in the NEC fighting to block "countless harmful submissions" that were allegedly being pushed on the Prime Minister, who he said was unable to risk losing coalition numbers in the cabinet. Kramer said he believes these factions were responsible for his frequent reassignment from ministry to ministry and his eventual exclusion from the cabinet. Kramer also expressed regret that his removal from the cabinet has hindered his ability to combat poor decisions from within the government, leading to the "widespread misuse of public funds with impunity." He warned that this situation is placing the nation at risk. He called on the Prime Minister and fellow Members of Parliament to prioritize the people’s interests, cautioning that continued degradation of the nation’s well-being would jeopardize the country's future. "Our faith should compel us to do what is right, not merely to survive politically," Kramer urged. Kramer reiterated his commitment to fighting corruption and ensuring that all Papua New Guineans have access to essential services. He pledged to continue this fight from outside the government with integrity, as expected by the people of Madang and Papua New Guinea. Simply put, Kramer states he no longer has confidence in Prime Minister James Marape's leadership.

Prime Minister James Marape called on fathers to lead by example this Father's Day, emphasizing that leadership begins at home. He stated this, as he stood alongside Rai Coast MP and Minister for Labour and Employment, Kessy Sawang and other Ministers and MPs at a press conference today, Sunday, September 1st, at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby, where earlier he had welcomed back Pomio MP Elias Kapavore to the government. The Prime Minister said there has been to much politics said, and he wanted to speak to everyone, especially all the fathers and mothers in the country, who are observing today's Father's Day as slated on the country's national events calendar. Prime Minister Marape's message was simple; he urged men to take responsibility for their families, not leaving the burden on mothers. Marape highlighted the importance of respecting family and maintaining law and order, drawing comparisons with small Pacific nations like Samoa and Tonga. He encouraged fathers to ensure their households are stable, which in turn contributes to a better society and country. "As a Christian country, you already know the Bible; Mama Eve ate the forbidden fruit in the beginning time, and when God came down, his first question was, ' Adam, where are you?', not Eve, but Adam; man, because the man is the leader of society." "Fathers take leadership in your home in the first instance; when you do that, the society is a better place. And the sum of it, the country is a better place." "I returned from Fiji, and I returned from Samoa, Tonga; these small island nations don't have the income we have as our country, but they are a society that respects themself and respect their family." "They live in a law-and-order society; the live lawfully." "So, this Father's Day, I want to appeal to all our fathers - yes, you are leader in our country, but leadership starts at home," the Prime Minister said, adding, "Don't think it is mother's time to look after you - look after your mother today on this Father's Day." Marape further noted the government's efforts to support families through tax relief and education loans. Prime Minister James Marape's message to everyone, especially the fathers in the nation as he observes Father's Day which falls on September 1st on the PNG calendar. "This government, we work hard. We worked for three years ...to give tax relief, especially for families." He said anyone who earns less than K20, 000 per fortnight, 'don't pay personal income taxes', as he dismissed rumours about increasing taxes in the country. He said the Pangu-led government is growing the economy, reducing taxes, paying for your school fees, including putting higher education loan program to help with university, helping with SME loans, to help the ordinary family pay for essential household items like rice, tin fish, salt, sugar as times are tough now. He concluded by urging fathers again not to be reckless, take advantage of what this government is doing to support families, and be responsible, and to stop leaving the household burden to the mothers, and instead show leadership at home as a father.

As Parliament resumption looms near, the Opposition side has not wasted time to strategize for a chance to form the next government. The Alternative Government side has now moved its camp to Loloata, which had previously been the campsite for the Marape-Rosso government side when Parliament had previously sat. Recently both sides have been switching Members of Parliament, garnering the numbers to solidify their hold to form or retain government. Prime Minister James Marape is confident, secure at this time with his huge number of coalition partners to his Pangu Pati. He just wants the Alternative Government to 'stop playing marbles' and fill out the required paperwork needed to push through a VONC before Parliament. He remains unfazed, despite the onslaught of criticism levelled against himself as Prime Minister and his government's 2024 budget, and performance. The Opposition today, August 31st, issued several pictures showing their side converging at Loloata, the most recent, of former Prime Minister and Ialibu-Pangia MP Peter O'Neil just arriving at small, picturesque island, located off the southern coast of Papua New Guinea, about 15 kilometres from Port Moresby. Known for its clear waters, coral reefs, and serene environment, Loloata offers a secluded retreat, making it an ideal location for privacy and security. This seclusion is why the island often hosts political camps, especially during crucial periods like votes of no confidence or elections. The isolation allows politicians to strategize and negotiate away from the public eye and media scrutiny, while still being conveniently close to the capital. Other pictures show, Gulf Governor Sir Chris Haiveta, sharing a moment with the Alternative Prime Minister nominee Rainbo Paita, and a picture of Paita with Opposition Leader, Douglas Tomureisa during the camp in the evening of yesterday, Friday August 30th. Haiveta recently switched sides after criticising the Marape government in relation to a K20 million Business Development Grant for Gulf Province being appropriated elsewhere, among other concerns. He left the Pangu Pati. Noticeably absent in the pictures is Pomio MP Elias Kapavore, who is the latest MP to have switched sides - from Government to Opposition for the last three months, to now being back again to Government.

The Deputy Opposition Leader, James Nomane, has invited Fisheries Minister Jelta Wong, along with Treasury Minister Ian Ling-Stuckey and Finance Minister Mickey Kaeok, to a public debate at the University of Papua New Guinea on September 2nd, a day before Parliament resumes. Nomane's call comes following him being criticised by Fisheries Minister Jelta Wong after Nomane labelled the 2024 National Budget as a 'failure'. The Deputy Opposition Leader in an earlier statement, stated that the Marape government has failed to implement the 2024 National Budget, with only 30% of the budget executed after 10 months. He stated that despite a historic K27.377 billion budget, critical sectors like health remain severely underfunded, leading to preventable deaths, further stating that the government’s financial management, including high taxes, excessive borrowing, and money printing, has exacerbated the cost-of-living crisis. He challenged the ministers to defend their policies in front of the next generation of leaders at UPNG, without any data material. "I take note of the emphatic support of the Prime Minister by the Fisheries Minister, Jelta Wong, in decrying my statement that the 2024 National Budget is a failure," the Deputy Opposition Leader said yesterday in a statement after issuing the debate challenge. "I now challenge this Minister for Fisheries to bring the Ministers for Treasury and Finance, Ian Ling-Stuckey, and Miki Kaeok, respectively, to a public debate at the University of Papua New Guinea on Monday 2nd September 2024." "I cannot apologize for my promulgation that the Marape government has failed to implement the 2024 National Budget of K27.377 billion. I stand by my position that the reality for Papua New Guineans does not match the rhetoric, and that the Prime Minister and his Cabinet, including this Fisheries Minister, do not have the wherewithal to improve socio-economic indicators." "This public debate will give the Fisheries Minister a real opportunity to demonstrate to the nation, and the next generation of leaders at UPNG, that he has the policy acuity and full grasp of the economy to solve problems." "For this debate there will be no notes, no phones, and no support staff," Nomane said, adding, "I will take on these three Ministers in a public debate and call them out for their complicit involvement in the total failure of the 2024 National Budget." "This is a simple challenge, so we stop this nonsense of hiding behind written statements." "Come out to the people of Papua New Guinea and articulate your policy position, defend the Marape government, and call me out for my 'grandstanding hogwash'." "I hope the Fisheries Minister and his colleagues embrace this challenge in the name of democracy." "These Minister must come out to the public and defend their performance in the Marape government." "We shall all eagerly await their response to accept or reject this invitation for debate."

There is a critical need for proper housing facilities for teachers to enhance the quality of education in the country. This has led to continuous efforts in this sector by Foreign Minister and Moresby-South MP, Justin Tkatchenko as a priority in his electorate, specifically for the Butuka Academy. He highlights that the success of future generations hinges on the quality of education provided, which is directly linked to the living and working conditions of educators. “If our teachers do not have the proper facilities and are not educated themselves at the highest level—how do we expect our future generation to progress into the future and be educated to the highest level?” Minister Tkatchenko questioned. He stressed that the quality of children’s education is deeply tied to the value and support given to teachers. “Facilities like this are all part of value-adding, enhancing, and supporting the quality of our children's education.” This statement was made on Friday, August 30th during the official handover ceremony of the keys to the new Butuka Academy Teachers Residence, a project that promises to significantly improve the living conditions of educators at the Academy. The ceremony was held with much fanfare and was attended by notable figures including NCD Governor Powes Parkop and the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to PNG, His Excellency Yang Xiaoguang. Minister Tkatchenko, who officiated the event, acknowledged the tremendous effort that went into completing the facility. He praised the contractor, CSCE Steel, for delivering the project in a mere three months—a feat he described as demonstrating “Shenzhen speed” or “China speed” in construction. "Usually something like this might take a year to build. We can't wait around; the children can't wait around. We need our children educated.” The newly completed Teachers Residences include six self-contained, one-bedroom units, which will now serve as homes for the Academy’s educators. The Butuka Academy project, a symbol of China-PNG friendship, was revitalized thanks to the intervention of Governor Parkop, who ensured that the fully funded Shenzhen City commitment was utilized to rebuild Butuka into a quality educational institution. Minister Tkatchenko did not shy away from giving credit where it was due, stating, “Butuka was never going to happen. It was through Governor Parkop’s intervention that this fully funded Shenzhen City commitment was utilized to rebuild Butuka to this current quality institute.” He further expressed his gratitude to Governor Parkop, saying, “Thank you so much, Governor, for your continuous dedication and support to education in Moresby South. Thank you for your trust and believing in us—look at what we've achieved.” Beyond the physical construction, the project also symbolizes a growing partnership between Papua New Guinea and China, particularly in the field of education. Minister Tkatchenko extended his appreciation to the Chinese Government and the City of Shenzhen for their ongoing commitment to the Butuka Academy and to education in PNG as a whole. He acknowledged Ambassador Xiaoguang and expressed his eagerness to continue strengthening the relationship between the two countries. Governor Parkop also spoke at the event, echoing the sentiment of gratitude towards the Chinese Government. "Again, we thank the Chinese Government for their heartfelt dedication to the education of our children." “We are doing everything that we can to put in place a good learning and teaching environment that can ensure the best and prepare our children for their life journey to a successful life." He also recognized the significance of the partnership with China, noting that it has exceeded expectations and led to significant milestones, such as the completion of the Teachers Residence. The ceremony concluded with Chairlady of the School Board, Lady Ni Cragnolini, expressing her appreciation for the efforts of both MPs and the Chinese and Shenzhen Governments. She highlighted the origins of the China-PNG partnership, which began less than 10 years ago, and praised the ongoing commitment to providing quality education through projects like the Butuka Academy. The successful completion of the Teachers Residence marks another step forward in the collaboration between Papua New Guinea and China, with a shared focus on enhancing education and providing the necessary support to those who play a crucial role in shaping the nation’s future—its teachers.

Fifty-two people in Rabaul District have finished a four-day training to collect important information for the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WaSH) program. This training is part of a bigger plan by the National Department of Planning and Monitoring to improve water and sanitation in the area. Mr. Takele Tuna, the National WaSH Program Coordinator, said the training is important because it helps create plans based on real information. "Our approach is to build capacity at the sub-national level to enable districts to take the bottom-up approach, community leadership, and ownership of projects," said Mr. Tuna. The trainees come from four local-level government (LLG) areas: Balanataman, Kombiu, Rabaul Urban, and Watom, and learned how to use a special app called mWater to collect data, which will help in making the five-year WaSH plan for the district. Mr. Tuna said the information they collect will show the current situation of water, sanitation, and hygiene in the area. "This survey will provide valuable insights into the current water, sanitation, and hygiene situation in the district," he explained. The data will help identify where things need to be better and guide future projects to make sure communities are healthy and safe. Mr. Tuna also praised the Rabaul and Pomio District Development Authorities for supporting the WaSH program with funding and for successfully setting up WaSH Committees.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has urged New Zealand to increase the number of Papua New Guineans working under its Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) Labour Mobility Scheme. The request was made during a bilateral meeting with New Zealand's Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, held on August 28, at the 53rd Pacific Islands Leaders' Forum in Tonga. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing cooperation between Papua New Guinea and New Zealand, particularly in labor mobility and resource development. This collaboration will emphasize sustainable and environmentally friendly practices, ensuring that new projects minimize their environmental impact. Prime Minister Luxon acknowledged the contributions of Papua New Guinean workers, noting their reliability and good performance in New Zealand's labor mobility program. He confirmed that his government is working on increasing the number of workers allowed under the RSE scheme. Marape assured that his government is focused on preparing workers for their roles abroad. He highlighted efforts to provide coaching and orientation for workers heading to New Zealand or Australia, aiming to ensure their smooth integration into new environments. The meeting also touched on post-COVID-19 economic recovery, with both leaders discussing planned resource development projects and their potential impacts on the environment.

The Rabaul District Administration has finally sworn in its new District Procurement Committee (DPC) members, enabling the district to manage and procure projects independently. The DPC had been inactive since 2022 due to the transfer of the former District Administrator, who was the previous chairman. The newly sworn-in committee members include Acting District Administrator Freddy Lemeki, Acting District Treasurer Lynette Wogan, Women’s Representative Florence John, and Community Representative Bernie Benson. The swearing-in ceremony was facilitated by the National Procurement Commission (NPC) team, with Senior Provincial Magistrate Samuel Lavutul overseeing the proceedings. Rabaul MP Dr. Allan Marat, along with district staff, also attended the event on Thursday, August 29th. Dr. Marat congratulated the new DPC members, urging them to take their oaths seriously and follow the proper procurement processes. “We have to attain the right ends by following the right means for the desired ends or results, there are no shortcuts. We must be the servants of the people,” he emphasized. Acting District Administrator Freddy Lemeki expressed his gratitude for the formation of the DPC, acknowledging that many projects were delayed because they had to go through the Provincial Procurement Committee. “There were a lot of projects that we wanted to procure in the district; however, since it's not within my threshold and that of the DPC, we had to wait and put it through the Provincial Procurement Committee,” he said. NPC’s Executive Manager for Sub-National Division, Agarobe Agaru, congratulated the district and assured continued technical support, emphasizing adherence to the Financial Management Act and the National Procurement Act. Agaru highlighted that the District Procurement Committee’s threshold level is K5 million, and the Provincial Procurement Committee’s threshold level is K10 million.

Prime Minister James Marape has commended the cooperative approach taken by China and the United States during the Pacific Island Forum (PIF). Speaking last night, August 29th, after returning from Tonga, the Prime Minister said he appreciated China and U.S. focus on supporting Pacific Island nations rather than competing for influence. “For the first time, they found a common ground, acknowledging that the Pacific Island nations need both their support,” Marape noted. He also praised China’s commitment to trade and humanitarian efforts, saying, “China is not here to take away any place." "China is here to assist with trade and humanitarian issues, especially in education, health, and other aspects.” Marape’s comments reflected his satisfaction with the positive dialogue between the two major powers and their support for the Pacific. He emphasized that the Pacific region should be seen as a zone of peace, where external powers contribute to development rather than geopolitical tension. Marape called for continued engagement from both China and the U.S. to address pressing issues like climate change, economic development, and security in the region. "We are not just passive recipients." "We are active partners in shaping our future, and we welcome all who come with respect and a genuine desire to help." The forum set the stage for future cooperation, with Marape expressing hope that this spirit of collaboration will endure.

Prime Minister James Marape announced that Papua New Guinea (PNG) is leading a new initiative to domesticate fish processing within the Pacific region. This move aims to create thousands of jobs and boost economic growth in the region. “Our government has always known leaders that stand with me." "We all are not begging anymore, not borrowing anymore, not seeking grants anymore." "From our own resources, we want to make sure we are earning money from our own resources,” Marape said. The initiative, which began at a Fisheries Ministers' meeting in Kokopo, East New Britain, was accepted as a key working document for the Pacific Island Forum (PIF). The Prime Minister also acknowledged Gazelle MP and Fisheries Minister Jelta Wong in this regard, while further emphasizing the importance of the Pacific processing its own fish rather than relying on foreign markets. Marape explained that by processing fish locally, Pacific nations can add value to their natural resources and retain more profits within the region. He said this will also reduce the dependency on foreign markets and create a more sustainable fishing industry. "This initiative is about taking control of our resources and ensuring that the benefits flow back to our people," he added, further urging other Pacific leaders to support the initiative and collaborate on building the necessary infrastructure and capacity for local fish processing. The initiative is expected to be a major topic at upcoming regional meetings, with discussions on how to implement it effectively across the Pacific. Marape remains optimistic that this move will not only strengthen the economies of Pacific nations but also promote greater regional self-reliance.

Prime Minister James Marape highlighted the importance of climate change discussions during the 53th Pacific Island Forum (PIF) Leaders Summit in Tonga. He revealed this at a press conference following his return to PNG yesterday, August 29th. He said member nations participated, focusing on the significant impacts of climate change on the region. “As we all know, we are exposed to climate change-related issues, weather patterns change, sea level rise, desalination of arable land, and erosion of land for that matter, " he said, adding, "And so that conversation remains the single most important issue that all nations in the Pacific race.” The discussions also included economic challenges, education, health, and law and order. Marape emphasized the need for Pacific nations to cooperate on these critical issues, especially in light of ongoing global conflicts and the lasting effects of COVID-19. He also called for stronger international support in addressing these challenges, stressing that the Pacific region is often overlooked in global climate change discussions. Marape said he urged Pacific leaders to continue working together and to present a united front at global forums. "Our strength lies in our unity," he said. "We must speak with one voice on these issues that matter most to our people and our future." He said the summit concluded with a renewed commitment from all member nations to prioritize climate action and work collaboratively towards sustainable development.

Papua New Guinea is making preparations to receive Pope Francis on September 6, as announced by Prime Minister James Marape on August 29th after returning from Tonga. The Prime Minister revealed the papalvisit will include mass and worship programs, with leaders from the Pacific also invited to attend. “Our nation is preparing to receive him on the 6th of September." "If he does come after 6 o’clock or sunset, I will not be there at the airport. That’s with respect to my (SDA) Sabbath practice, but the Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso will be there to receive Pope Francis,” Marape said. The Prime Minister said the Pope’s visit is a significant event for PNG, which has a large Catholic population, with Marape already extending an invitation to other Pacific leaders to attend the nation’s 50th independence anniversary next year in 2025. Marape said in preparation for the visit, the government is coordinating with the Catholic Church and local authorities to ensure that security and logistics are well in place. The visit is expected to draw thousands of faithful from across the country and the Pacific region. "This is a momentous occasion for our nation," Marape said. "We are honored to welcome Pope Francis and look forward to his message of peace and unity." The visit will also serve as an opportunity for PNG to showcase its rich cultural heritage and its progress over the past 50 years. Marape expressed hope that the Pope’s visit will inspire the nation as it prepares for its upcoming independence celebrations. "This is a time for reflection and renewal," he said. "We are proud of our journey, and we look forward to the future with hope and determination."