POSTS BY AUTHOR
Joshua ARLO
INDIA ASSOCIATION OF PNG HOSTS INDIA NIGHT 2024
The India Association of Papua New Guinea (IAPNG) is celebrating 38 years of fostering friendship between India and PNG with their annual event, India Nite 2024.
Scheduled for Saturday, August 24, 2024, at Sir John Guise Stadium, the event will run from 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm, with over 750 guests expected.
Raj Patnaik, President of IAPNG, has issued a welcome message to all attendees with heartfelt remarks, saying, "Greetings and Welcome to India Nite 2024. I feel humbled and privileged to once again welcome you all on behalf of IAPNG to our annual cultural event India Nite."
Established in 1981, the IAPNG has been dedicated to promoting mutual understanding and friendship between the Indian and PNG communities.
Patnaik highlighted the association's efforts, stating, "The IAPNG has been working on fostering friends among our community members, promoting mutual understanding between the two nations that are thousands of miles apart and yet so similar in culture and tradition."
He proudly recounted the impact of previous fundraising events, noting, "The proceeds from last India Nite helped us to donate a classroom each to Baruni Primary School and to School for ANCOP (in progress) and also educational materials to 6 other educational institutions in NCD."
Patnaik expressed gratitude to all involved, saying, "I also take this opportunity to thank all IAPNG members, participants, choreographers, volunteers, and my fellow Executive Committee members who have been the backbone of this year's activities, including this event."
He concluded by inviting everyone to enjoy the cultural festivities: "Please join us and enjoy India Nite 2024—'Glimpses of India: A Cultural Journey.' God Bless Papua New Guinea and God Bless us all."
Published on August 25, 2024
MARAPE HEADS TO TONGA FOR PACIFIC ISLANDS FORUM
As PNG prepares for its National Repentance Day event on Monday, August 26th, Prime Minister James Marape will attend the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders Meeting in Tonga.
The forum, set to take place from August 26-30, 2024, will see Pacific leaders discuss pressing regional issues.
Before heading to Tonga, Prime Minister Marape will make a brief stopover in Niue to fulfill a longstanding Papua New Guinea Government commitment of K5 million made in 2014.
“This commitment of 2014 has not been fulfilled; hence, I will be traveling there to fulfill it,” Prime Minister Marape stated.
Marape emphasized the importance of the PIF as a critical gathering for Pacific leaders.
"We will discuss issues of shared interest, including trade, geopolitics, climate change, recovery from the economic shocks of COVID-19, and various others,” he said.
Marape is expected to return to PNG by Thursday, August 29, 2024.
Addressing the concerns of PNG citizens, Marape assured that the government is committed to assisting families through the 2024 Budget.
“I assure our people that this assistance will continue into 2025," he said, adding, "Your government is working very hard to address all these issues."
He also reflected on the economic challenges following the events of January 10, 2024, urging citizens to maintain peace.
"Let’s all work together to keep Port Moresby and Papua New Guinea safe."
Published on August 25, 2024
LAE SNAX TIGERS BRAVE FLOOD FOR FINAL SHOWDOWN
Talk about dedication!
The Lae Snax Tigers have demonstrated incredible grit and determination as they make their way to the elimination final against the PRK Mendi Muruks this Sunday, August 24th, at the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby.
In a dramatic turn of events, the Tigers faced severe weather conditions that have wreaked havoc in Morobe Province, and the national Highlands Highway.
With the Yalu River flooded and the Yalu Bridge washed away, the Tigers today, Saturday, had to cross the river with their gear and game jerseys in hand to reach the other side to travel to Port Moresby.
Their heroic journey, going viral on social media, just proves their commitment and the spirit of sportsmanship as they braved dangerous conditions to get to their big game.
This act of bravery is set against the backdrop of significant infrastructure challenges.
Acting Secretary for the Department of Works & Highways, Mr. Gibson Holemba, announced that restoration work on the Yalu Bridge began this morning.
The flooding has severely disrupted travel along the Highlands Highway, which is a critical link between Lae and Nadzab.
“We have deployed machinery to restore temporary access,” Mr. Holemba stated.
He urged the public to remain calm and exercise common sense during this time.
“Natural disaster is beyond our control, but restoration works are underway to restore normal traffic flow,” he added.
Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister and Lae MP John Rosso confirmed that efforts are being made to expedite repairs.
“We are closely liaising with police to ensure safety at the site,” Rosso said.
The engineering battalion from Igam is also on standby to assist if needed.
Restoration efforts aim to provide temporary access for light vehicles this afternoon, weather permitting.
Meanwhile, the Lae Snax Tigers are preparing for their high-stakes elimination final at 3:15pm on Sunday.
Their impressive season performance, with 10 wins, 3 draws, and 5 losses, has secured them a strong position in 4th place on the ladder, with 23 points.
They have showcased formidable offense and defense, scoring 382 points and allowing only 272 against them.
Leading the competition are the Minor Premier Champions Wamp Nga Mt. Hagen Eagles, holding the top spot with 26 points from 12 wins and 2 draws.
Close behind are the KMH Enga Mioks with 25 points.
The ENB Agmark Gurias and Lae Snax Tigers follow with 24 and 23 points, respectively.
The Tigers’ final match promises to be a thrilling clash as they vie for a chance to advance further in the playoffs in the 2024 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup season.
Don’t miss the action this Sunday at the National Football Stadium, as the ENB Agmark Gurias face the Kroton Hela Wigmen at 1 PM, followed by the Lae Snax Tigers taking on the PRK Mendi Muruks.
Published on August 24, 2024
NATIONAL DART FEDERATION ANNOUNCES NEW LEADERSHIP
The National Darts Federation of Papua New Guinea has announced a series of key appointments and a call for volunteers to support its upcoming national events.
President Molean Kilepak said Ms. Isabelle Nana, an active player with NCD Darts Association, will step in as the Interim Secretary for the Federation until a permanent Secretary is appointed.
"She brings with her a wealth of experience in assisting the Federation move forward, especially on the roles and responsibilities of this position," said Kilepak.
The move comes after the previous Secretary, Ms. Wilma Uiari, had been out of contact without notifying the Federation of her absence. Kilepak stressed the need for an interim appointment to ensure the smooth operation of the Federation.
In addition, Mr. Graham Narakou has been appointed as the Tournament Director for the 17th National Darts Titles from September 9th - 16th.
"The Federation also wishes to announce the appointment of Mr. Graham Narakou as the Tournament Director for the 17th National Darts Titles at Malapau Beach Resort, in Kokopo, East New Britain Province," the president said, adding, "Mr. Narakou is an experienced darts player and manager and we look forward to his leadership."
Narakou will oversee the event with support from a team of experienced Technical Officials who will also mentor local officials.
The Federation is also calling for expressions of interest from members to join various technical committees.
These committees will help manage national and international events, ensuring effective operation and adherence to standards, and volunteer liaison officers will be needed at provincial and district levels to facilitate these events.
Kilepak also mentioned that, as of the deadline, 19 dart associations are registered with the Federation.
A transparent draw system will be implemented for the national championships, with detailed rules and revised by-laws to be released soon.
For further information, visit the Federation’s website www.pngnationaldarts.com
Published on August 24, 2024
MARAPE vs O'NEILL OVER FINANCIAL MISMANAGEMENT CLAIMS
As Papua New Guinea heads towards a Vote of No Confidence (VONC), political tensions are running high.
Former Prime Minister Peter O’Neill continued this week with his scathing attack on current Prime Minister James Marape, accusing him of financial mismanagement and using the national budget to advance personal political agendas.
Marape has fired back, dismissing O’Neill’s claims as baseless and politically motivated.
O’Neill, the Member for Ialibu-Pangia, alleges that Marape has been manipulating the budget to secure political power, at the expense of the nation’s welfare.
“Finance papers show that when it comes to appropriating the Budget, James Marape’s political agendas come first, and the priority of the people comes a distant last in his one-man race for personal power,” O’Neill stated.
He highlighted a "typing error" that redirected K20 million intended for Gulf Province to Enga Province, suggesting it was no accident but part of a broader pattern of budget manipulation.
According to O’Neill, this is just one example of many irregularities in the Year-to-Date Warrants and Appropriations.
He accused Marape of funding his own department and cronies at the expense of crucial sectors like health, education, and law enforcement.
“While funding of medicines YTD is less than 30%, Marape has funded himself 106% of approved PM & NEC 2024 Budget,” he charged.
O’Neill went further, criticizing the Connect PNG initiative, a key infrastructure program, as a “slush bucket” used to funnel funds without proper oversight.
He listed numerous unfunded projects, including critical roads and highways, which he claims have been neglected under Marape’s watch.
In contrast, sectors crucial to public welfare, such as education, health, and law enforcement, have been severely underfunded, according to O’Neill.
He detailed how the Public Prosecutor’s Office, the Department of Health, and even the nation’s universities have received only a fraction of their budgeted funds.
“Our students and teachers are grossly unfunded YTD by K21.5m,” he noted, highlighting the dire state of the nation’s education system.
Marape however in a statement, has vehemently denied these allegations, accusing O’Neill of spreading falsehoods.
He pointed out that the national budget is managed by a committee of public officials, not at the Prime Minister’s whim.
“I want to assure the country that we are spending money according to the budget."
"Everyone should know by now that Peter O’Neill’s assertions are always badly skewed because of his deep political biases,” Marape countered.
He emphasized that the Budget Management Committee, which includes senior government officials, meets weekly to ensure that expenditures align with available revenue.
“It is not a money plan that the Prime Minister controls at his whim. But a committee of public officials as well as ministers who sit and go through every week,” Marape explained, adding that the government is operating within the budget despite economic challenges and natural disasters.
Marape also addressed the issue of emergency spending, noting that the Treasurer has the constitutional mandate to make necessary adjustments.
“We are not reckless; we work within what is in the budget,” he assured, dismissing O’Neill’s criticisms as politically motivated attempts to regain power.
Published on August 23, 2024
PM BLAMES POLITICS FOR SHORTCOMINGS | MP HITS BACK, CALLING IT AN EXCUSE
Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has reportedly acknowledged the government’s failure to meet its obligations, admitting a shortfall that has stalled Papua New Guinea’s development and economic progress.
Speaking at the recent PNG Update forum on August 21st, Marape highlighted the frequent changes in leadership and lack of effective policies as key reasons for the nation's poor economic state.
“For the past 27 years, every two years, we’ve been forming and changing governments,” Marape explained, pointing to political instability as a major factor hindering consistent growth.
He noted that by 2002, the country’s GDP had not surpassed K20 billion, with the population growing and jobs declining, leaving many citizens unsatisfied.
Despite these challenges, Marape remains optimistic that the current policies will eventually yield positive results, emphasizing his commitment to ensuring economic participation for all citizens.
However, Hiri-Koiari MP Keith Iduhu was quick to respond a day later in a statement, criticizing the Prime Minister's remarks as a weak attempt to deflect blame.
“For the first time, the Prime Minister has admitted that the government is failing to fulfil its promises to our people,” Iduhu stated.
He urged Marape to take full responsibility, rather than attributing the country's woes to political instability.
Iduhu further questioned Marape’s leadership over the past five years.
“James Marape has had 5 years as prime minister. Not 5 weeks or 5 months. There is a limit as to how long a prime minister continues to blame their predecessor for the problems inherited,” he said, demanding results instead of excuses.
Marape also acknowledged the growing lawlessness as a major barrier to development, urging citizens to respect the rule of law. But Iduhu countered by highlighting the lack of tangible outcomes despite record budgets.
“Our last 5 budgets have been record budgets, but yet we have not seen these billions translate into tangible growth for our people,” Iduhu argued. He pointed out the stark contrast between the K24 billion budget and the reality in the country's schools, streets, and hospitals.
Iduhu concluded by criticizing the Prime Minister's excuses and lack of progress after five years in office, calling for Marape to be held to the same high expectations as any leader in a democracy.
"In any other democracy, the leader is expected to perform in order to justify his position. Why is it that we allow sub-par leadership and wonder why the country is going down the drain?”
Published on August 23, 2024
PM CLAIMS ECONOMY THRIVING, OPPOSITION SLAMS IT AS 'WORST IN HISTORY'
Papua New Guinea’s economic outlook has sparked a heated debate, with Prime Minister James Marape announcing positive developments, only to be met with fierce criticism from Deputy Opposition Leader James Nomane, who paints a much darker picture.
On August 16th, Prime Minister Marape confidently declared in a statement that Papua New Guinea’s economy is on a positive trajectory.
He cited stronger growth, low inflation, and an easing of foreign exchange (FX) shortages as evidence of the government’s success.
“The PNG economy is on a positive trajectory, with inflation persistently remaining below the historical average of 5.5 percent,” Marape stated, highlighting that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects a GDP growth of 4.6 percent for 2024.
He emphasized that these improvements are the result of tough government policy decisions, predicting a bright future for the nation.
However, Deputy Opposition Leader James Nomane responded in a statement a week later with a blistering critique, calling Marape’s optimism a “slap in the face” to struggling Papua New Guineans.
“The government has miserably failed to achieve growth, high employment, and price stability. After 5 years, the numbers do not lie. The PNG economy is in the worst shape in history,” Nomane countered.
He highlighted three key indicators: a devalued currency, a soaring debt of over K66 billion, and inflation that he claims is higher than what Marape admits due to the government’s money printing.
While Marape boasted about the reduction in FX wait times, Nomane pointed out that the kina’s value has plummeted, eroding purchasing power.
“K100 does not buy the same amount of food it used to buy in 2019,” Nomane said, arguing that the devaluation is worsening inflation and driving away foreign investors.
He also criticized the Marape government’s borrowing spree, accusing it of using the funds to further its own interests rather than to benefit the nation.
“Marape has (allegedly) borrowed over K34 billion in 5 years—more than all other Prime Ministers combined over 44 years—yet we see no tangible improvements,” Nomane remarked.
Nomane did not stop there, further accusing Marape of promoting “pork-barrel politics” and manipulating the budget for personal gain, while public institutions, like the Central Bank, are being weakened.
“The Marape government has no solution for the economy. It can only borrow and demand the Central Bank to print money,” he said, warning that this would only worsen the economic crisis.
In a final call to action, Nomane urged all Members of Parliament to put the country first and end what he described as Marape’s “tyrannical regime.”
He called for a hard reset to save Papua New Guinea from the pain of alleged “half-baked solutions, misguided morals, and weak leadership.”
Published on August 23, 2024
SEMOSO STANDS FIRM IN OPPOSITION
Francesca Semoso, the Member for North Bougainville, has declared she will stay in the Opposition, despite rumors and pressures suggesting she should return to the Government benches.
In response to a social media poster claiming the people of North Bougainville want her back in the Government, Semoso firmly stated, "I will not move back to Pangu Party and the Government."
Semoso addressed concerns about being on the same side as Sir Julius Chan and Sir Chris Haiveta, who were involved in the 1997 Sandline Crisis.
She made it clear that she is focused on the future of Bougainville, saying, "Sir Julius and Sir Chris are from the past."
"I am looking at the future of Bougainville. I am a new breed in politics, and I am a woman."
Semoso emphasized her commitment to the people of North Bougainville who elected her to be their voice in Parliament, not to serve any party.
"My concern is the people of Bougainville and North Bougainville, for the youths and children, and the women of Bougainville and PNG."
She also expressed her satisfaction with her current position, adding that she had informed Prime Minister James Marape of her reasons for leaving the Government.
"I told Prime Minister James Marape that I have no grudge against his government, however I moved because of the people of North Bougainville and Bougainville's Independence," Semoso stated.
Semoso plans to demand an official apology from Pangu Party when Parliament resumes on September 3rd, citing her strong support from the people of Bougainville for her stand on their independence.
She noted that no Bougainville MP in the last 20 years has spoken so passionately in Parliament about Bougainville's Independence, saying, "When I stood in Parliament and cried, it is because I felt the pain that my people endured during the crisis that took lives and destroyed our beautiful home."
Finally, Semoso criticized Pangu Party and Prime Minister Marape for engaging in what she called "cheap politics" instead of addressing the country's challenges.
Published on August 23, 2024
KRAMER REINSTATED | PM WELCOMES HIM BACK TO GOVT
In a significant legal victory, Bryan Kramer will return to his role as Member for Madang Open following today’s (Thursday, August 22nd) National Court ruling in Waigani.
The court decision reinstates Kramer, who had been suspended and dismissed from office over the past two years, just as Parliament gears up for a potential and another crucial vote of no confidence in early September.
"Today, Thursday August 22, the National Court in Waigani ruled in favour of my application to stay the suspension and dismissal from office, effectively reinstating me as the Member for Madang Open Electorate until the judicial review proceedings challenging my dismissal are fully heard and determined," Kramer said.
Expressing gratitude, Kramer acknowledged his legal team, particularly Mr. Nelson Kopune, who successfully argued his case, and Mr. Nemo Yalo, whose earlier Supreme Court efforts were pivotal in the case’s reconsideration.
"I also wish to express my heartfelt thanks to the countless individuals from across the country, especially those from Madang, for their unwavering support and prayers during this challenging period."
"I am overwhelmed by your kindness and solidarity."
As Kramer resumes office, he is focused on addressing pressing issues in Madang and restoring progress in the community.
"As I return to office, my immediate priority will be addressing the challenges facing Madang and working diligently to restore order and progress in our community," he stated.
Prime Minister James Marape also praised Kramer's reinstatement, welcoming him back to the government.
"I congratulate the Honourable Bryan Kramer on this success, and we welcome him back to Government," Marape said.
"I commend his maturity and resilience."
"Without protesting publicly and no matter how long it has taken, he has deployed the use of our country’s courts to exercise his Constitutional rights."
"The Honourable Kramer represents a class of politicians who fight for what they believe is right."
"They are not in politics for the love of money or fame but are there to do what is right for their people."
He expressed support for Kramer’s role and the shared commitment of the coalition members.
“I am glad he is back."
"I welcome him and will be supporting him in his role as Member for Madang and whatever other role Government gives him."
Published on August 23, 2024
25 SURRENDER, 219 ARRESTED FOR ESP CRIMES | BIRD
East Sepik Governor Allan Bird has confirmed that 33 individuals involved in the gruesome murders in Kanda, Angoram District, have surrendered to police.
Of these, 25 suspects turned themselves in on Wednesday, August 21st, while 8 had previously been arrested and charged.
Governor Bird provided an update on his official social media platform, stating that police, with the assistance of local leaders, are continuing their investigations.
Despite the recent surrenders, approximately 40 suspects remain at large.
The Governor expressed his confidence in the ongoing efforts to bring all perpetrators to justice.
In a separate incident, 15 people from Lowon village, West Coast Wewak, surrendered to police and local leaders on Sunday.
These individuals were involved in arson and murder, and a cache of guns was also confiscated during the operation.
Governor Bird highlighted the progress made in law enforcement across the province, noting that with 171 arrests in Maprik last week, the total number of individuals arrested and charged for various crimes in East Sepik Province has reached 219 over the past two weeks.
"Work is still ongoing, and we expect more arrests to be made as police manpower focuses their efforts on the hotspots in the province," said Governor Bird.
He commended the efforts of local police, the special team from Port Moresby, and the local community leaders for their assistance in these operations.
“ESPG commends our local police and the special team from Port Moresby. We also acknowledge and are deeply grateful for the work of local leaders within the various communities for their valuable help."
Governor Bird further mentioned that a team led by the Provincial Administrator and the Boram Correctional Institution Service (CIS) Commander recently secured approval to install temporary facilities at Boram Prison and begin its relocation to a new site.
“The rule of law must prevail in Sepik before we can do anything else,” Governor Bird emphasized, urging residents to support law enforcement efforts to ensure safety and justice throughout the province.
The Governor assured the public that the East Sepik Provincial Government remains committed to supporting law enforcement agencies in their mission to maintain order and bring all offenders to justice.
Published on August 22, 2024
PNG ECONOMY CRISIS: EXCHANGE RATES HITS RECORD LOW
The Deputy Opposition Leader has issued a statement highlighting Papua New Guinea's economic crisis.
Mr. James Nomane says this is evident because the kina has dropped to an all-time low, now worth only 0.19 US Dollars.
He says the impact of these economic challenges is felt across the nation, as K100 no longer buys the same amount of food it did in 2019, and the cost of living has worsened, and citizens are facing increasing hardship.
Mr. Nomane was responding to a statement by the Prime Minister James Marape on Monday, August 19th, claiming that the "economy looks good."
The Deputy Opposition Leader described this statement as seemingly 'disconnected from the harsh realities' Papua New Guineans are facing.
He said the cost-of-living crisis continues to worsen, and businesses are leaving the country, further accusing the Marape government of failing to achieve economic growth, high employment, and price stability.
Mr. Nomane pointed out that the exchange rate has plummeted to an all-time low, with PGK 1.0 now equivalent to only 0.19 USD, meaning roughly K5 is needed to buy 1 USD.
He said this significant devaluation of the kina has never occurred before in the nation’s history.
He further said debt levels have soared to over K66 billion, with the debt-to-GDP ratio surpassing 52%.
He claims that in just five years, Marape has borrowed more than K34 billion, which is more than what all previous Prime Ministers borrowed over 44 years from 1975 to 2019.
He also claims that the continuous money printing by the Central Bank is fueling inflation beyond the reported 5.5%, exacerbating the economic woes and diminishing the purchasing power of the kina.
Mr. Nomane stated that the ongoing currency devaluation is driving up inflation, making imported goods unaffordable, and eroding investor confidence.
Published on August 22, 2024
10th APMF CONFERENCE FOCUSES ON CLIMATE & ENVIRONMENTAL MEDIATION
The Asia Pacific Mediation Forum (APMF) launched its annual conference in Port Moresby, this week concentrating on using mediation to address environmental and climate change-related disputes.
Held under the theme "Regional Challenges, Regional Solutions, Global Outcomes: Using Mediation to Resolve Environment and Climate Change Disputes," the event has attracted legal experts, judges, and stakeholders from across the Asia-Pacific region.
The conference opened with a grand reception hosted by the Papua New Guinea Judiciary at the iconic APEC Haus on Sunday, August 18.
The cultural and ceremonial opening on Monday, August 19, further emphasized the diversity and richness of the Pacific Islands.
Delegates were welcomed by the Chief Justice of Papua New Guinea, Sir Gibuma Gibbs Salika, and entertained with cultural performances showcasing the country’s heritage.
Prime Minister, James Marape, delivered a keynote address, stressing the urgent need for collective action on climate change.
PM Marape noted that environmental and climate justice must be regional priorities, urging stronger collaboration among Pacific nations.
The Prime Minister also recognized the vital role of mediation and legal frameworks in resolving disputes linked to climate impacts and resource use.
The focus is on regional collaboration and judiciary's role, and the APMF conference comes as climate change presents mounting challenges for Pacific Island nations, which are among the most vulnerable to rising sea levels, extreme weather, and other environmental shifts.
To address these pressing issues, the Marape government has committed to bolstering its judiciary’s mediation capacity, recognizing that regional solutions and judicial intervention are essential to achieving global climate outcomes.
Since taking office in 2019, Marape's administration has increased funding for the law and justice sector, allowing the judiciary to better support environmental rule of law.
Minister for Justice and Attorney-General, Pila Ninigi, in an interview with PNG Hausbung on Monday, August 19th, reiterated the government's commitment to upholding the rule of law through increased judiciary support, noting that this year’s conference is a testament to Papua New Guinea's leadership in fostering climate change dialogue.
The conference agenda is packed with insightful discussions and panels focused on mediation as a mechanism to address environmental and climate disputes.
One of the most anticipated panels is "The Role of Judges and Courts in Climate Change and Environmental Litigation and Mediation," which will feature renowned judges such as Zambian Constitutional Court Judge Mugeni Siwale Mulenga and British barrister John McKendrick KC.
These discussions will examine how judicial processes, including litigation and mediation, can deliver climate justice across the region.
The conference also features sessions that delve into the role of lawyers in climate change litigation and mediation, with insights from international legal experts such as Mark Fenhalls KC from the UK and Shanta Martin from Australia.
These sessions are crucial in exploring the potential of legal advocacy and judicial capacity building as tools for environmental protection.
Another critical discussion revolves around the use of scientific data and creative arts in mediating environmental disputes, led by specialists like Dr. Charalee Graydon from Euclid University and President Peta Stilgoe from the Queensland Land Court.
Mediation methods rooted in Pacific customs and traditions are also gaining traction as effective tools for resolving disputes.
One of the conference’s sessions highlights the importance of customary dispute resolution in Pacific societies as a blueprint for mediating environmental conflicts.
This approach is seen as particularly relevant in addressing the unique social and cultural dynamics of the Pacific region, where traditional landownership and resource use are intertwined with environmental justice.
This was also highlighted in the interview with Minister Niningi, who said: "As you know, PNG, in tradition, we have a dispute in negotiations and discussions take place where we resolve problems."
"So now we incorporate it into an Act of Parliament, so we are strengthening it."
"In other countries, maybe it's foreign, but to us, PNG, it is not a foreign concept, it is in us."
"So now we are strengthening it so that major cases, a lot of cases come to court, we believe that with these dispute resolutions, we can resolve it."
Also today at the Conference, women’s roles in mediation are being recognized, with speakers such as Visaka Dharmadasa, Chairperson of the Association of War Affected Women in Sri Lanka, discussing the significance of women mediators in local and global environmental conflicts.
As climate-related disputes become increasingly complex, the conference is fostering dialogue on the establishment of a regional or international environmental mediation mechanism. Leaders from various Pacific nations are discussing the need for a cross-border approach to managing environmental disputes, emphasizing the value of shared regional frameworks.
Tuesday's sessions will continue to expand on these themes, featuring panels on the use of technology in environmental governance, such as the Eco-Cop initiative from Spain and discussions on policing environmental laws. Another panel will explore the dynamics of large-scale development projects and how mediation can ensure cultural and environmental considerations are integrated into legal frameworks.
The discussions at the APMF conference underscore a collective recognition that while climate change is a global issue, regional collaboration and culturally sensitive mediation strategies are essential to achieving long-term solutions. As the Pacific continues to bear the brunt of climate impacts, the conference serves as a critical platform for advancing the legal and mediation frameworks needed to navigate environmental challenges effectively.
The conference will run through the week, concluding with a closing ceremony and optional tours, allowing attendees to experience the natural beauty of Papua New Guinea while fostering further informal discussions.
Some of these optional tours include, a Sogeri Tour - A scenic drive to Rouna Waterfall Lookout, Koitaki Farm, Sogeri National High School, and Varirata National Park; a tour around Port Moresby, which includes a visit to Ela Beach, Parliament House, the National Museum, Nature Park, and a tour of the old and new Court Complex, and a boat cruise around APEC Haus & Waterfront, including a visit to Loloata Island and a lunch on board the MV Bulolo.
Published on August 19, 2024