Bulolo MP Sam Basil Jr. has expressed frustration with the national government and Morobe Provincial Administration over their handling of landowner issues and Infrastructure Development Grants (IDG) related to the Wafi-Golpu mine. In a media conference this afternoon, Thursday August 15th, Basil voiced support for landowners from Towongola, who staged a peaceful protest by blocking road access to the mine earlier this week, halting construction. Basil criticized the government's failure to address landowner concerns before mine operations began, stating that this neglect led to the protest. He stressed that landowners should not be ignored. "I've been raising this since I entered parliament; even sat with the Prime Minister himself and a few senior MPs from Morobe, and I told them that we need to fix the landowners first before we talk about the mine itself," he said. Basil also expressed his dissatisfaction with the lack of transparency and tangible development projects from IDG funds. He noted that while K100 million was allocated to Morobe for infrastructure, no visible progress had been made in the impacted areas. He further questioned recent IDG payments, calling out the government for misdirecting funds. “The records show that K13 million was paid to three separate organizations, none of which are benefiting the lives of my people of Wafi-Golpu, Mumeng LLG, or Bulolo district." He urged the government and Morobe Provincial Administration to engage directly with the landowners, stating that issues should be resolved on the ground in Bulolo District, not from distant offices in Lae or Port Moresby. "Don't address the issue in Port Moresby, or in Lae, but come to Bulolo District, Mumeng LLG, and you face the landowners, and you tell them in their face what's going on," Basil asserted. The Bulolo MP emphasized that failure to address landowner grievances and properly allocate IDG funds could lead to further unrest, potentially delaying the long-anticipated Wafi-Golpu mine operations. He stressed the importance of resolving landowner issues before any more development could take place. With an additional K50 million IDG recently given to the Morobe Provincial Government, Basil called for the funds to be used transparently, ensuring that the local community sees tangible benefits. He warned that failure to address these issues would only continue to create problems for all stakeholders involved in the mine project. "Every stakeholder involved wants the mine to start," Basil said. "We want to see tangible development projects from it, and all landowner issues sorted out once and for all."

Assistant Commissioner for Police - Prosecutions, Pare Kuriap, has called for urgent improvements to resource allocation and collaboration within the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC). Speaking on August 9th during the Commission of Inquiry chaired by Justice Elenias Batari, Kuriap cited a lack of transportation for prisoners as a key issue, causing cases to be dismissed. He also stressed the need for better cooperation between the prosecution and investigation units to improve case management and evidence sharing. Kuriap highlighted several other critical problems affecting the force, including legislative gaps and a breakdown in discipline, particularly in rural areas. Non-commissioned officers (NCOs) are unable to charge offenders under Section 19 of the Police Act without a commissioned officer present, which Kuriap said has led to declining discipline. Additionally, Kuriap pointed to a lack of training for officers seeking promotion, noting that sergeant development programs have not been run in years. He said this has resulted in unqualified officers being promoted to crucial roles, such as investigative positions, weakening the force's overall effectiveness. Kuriap called for legislative changes to empower NCOs in remote areas, along with improved training and resource distribution, to prevent further deterioration of discipline and functionality within the RPNGC.

The Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary recently heard from Assistant Commissioner for Police-Prosecutions, Pare Kuriap, regarding the challenges faced by the prosecution division. ACP Kuriap emphasized the need for enhanced training for prosecutors, advocating for higher education standards to match those of the lawyers currently defending cases. He says he has initiated discussions again with the Law faculty at the University of Papua New Guinea to upgrade the qualifications of police prosecutors through a Diploma in Law Program. This move aims to improve prosecution outcomes and enable officers to advance into legal careers. The inquiry, chaired by Justice Elenias Batari, also addressed the issue of inadequate pay for police prosecutors, who currently receive a 12% allowance on their base salary. ACP Kuriap called for an increase, citing the demanding nature of their role, which confines them to courtrooms without the travel allowances offered to other police units. Additionally, Kuriap highlighted the drop in discipline within the police force, pointing to a 75% decline since he joined 39 years ago. He attributed this to the lack of training, structured parades, and the enforcement of disciplinary measures, particularly in areas where non-commissioned officers are unable to enforce discipline due to Section 19 of the Police Act. Kuriap advocated for reforms that empower lower-ranking officers to maintain order, especially in remote areas where higher-ranking officers may not be present.

PNG Power is implementing emergency load shedding in Wewak due to a significant shortfall in power generation. This comes after a major technical breakdown affected four generators at the Wewak PowerStation, according to PNG Power Limited Acting CEO Nehemaiah Naris. To address the issue, technical teams from Port Moresby will arrive in Wewak this Friday, August 16th, with essential spare parts to conduct necessary maintenance on the faulty generators. Currently, only three operational generators are supplying power, which totals about 1.8 megawatts, falling short of the province's peak demand of 4 megawatts. The shortfall has necessitated a 4-hour interval load shedding schedule, details of which are available on PPL's social media sites. PNG Power anticipates that power supply reliability will improve by early next week following the maintenance work. In the interim, PNG Power urges customers, particularly businesses and those with backup generators, to rely on alternative power sources until the situation is resolved. For further updates, contact the PNG Power National Call Centre at Toll-Free: 116, email: callcenter@pngpower.com.pg, or WhatsApp: 70001009.

Shadow Minister for Justice, and Sinasina-Yongamugl MP Kerenga Kua has praised East Sepik’s law and justice system for swiftly handling recent violence in Maprik, with 165 criminals sentenced in just two weeks. He applauded the Wewak District Court’s efficiency, calling it a national record and urged other regions to follow this example, highlighting the need for faster case resolutions across Papua New Guinea’s judiciary to prevent crime escalation. “I was very pleased to see that within two weeks of violent incidents taking place in East Sepik Province, the perpetrators were immediately arrested, processed and charged and ultimately sentenced to prison by the magistrate." “That is a new national record for the judiciary which has a checkered track record of dispensing justice in an archaic, cumbersome and slow manner." "I commend the efforts of those in the law and justice sector in East Sepik Province who are working in very strenuous circumstances, and I urge them to maintain this standard." “Part of the reason why crime is escalating is due to the very slow and never-ending adjournment of criminal cases in the court system." "While we understand each case has its own facts surrounding the case, it should be in the interest of justice for aggrieved parties that decisions be dispensed in a timely manner.” Mr Kua said that the speedy conclusion of the cases in ESP is an eye opener to all magistrates and judges to speed up cases and deliver justice in real time. “In the same breath I also encourage public prosecutors and police investigators to get their act together when prosecuting crimes.” “Unnecessary delays because of minor administrative and technical issues should be a thing of the past." “As the saying goes, justice delayed is justice denied – a disconnect between crime and punishment is never a deterrent.” “Our systems of justice must work in the interest of justice,”

As Papua New Guinea approaches its 50th anniversary, Regional Member for Bougainville and Minister for Police Peter Tsiamalili has urged citizens to seek peaceful solutions to national issues. He emphasized that violence is not the answer to the complex challenges the nation faces. His call follows University of Papua New Guinea representatives who challenged the government on current issues in the country during the official launch of the NCD Youth Summit, hosted by NCD Governor Powes Parkop on Monday August 12th, attended by Prime Minister James Marape, and several other key government officials. Minister Tsiamalili praised University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) Student Representative Council (SRC) President Joel Rimbu for his leadership in promoting peaceful contributions to national discussions. "In his statement, SRC President Mr. Rimbu has made it clear that the UPNG SRC does not sanction or endorse calls that have been made on social media, in many cases by non-students, for national student protests on the cost of living,” Tsiamalili said. He supported comments made by Minister for Higher Education Kinoka Hotune Feo, who also praised student leaders for their thoughtful approach to issues like the cost of living. “As Minister Feo said in his letter to SRCs and university leaders, now is not the time for uninformed protest. The fact is that our nation is facing a number of issues – these are not unique to Papua New Guinea but reflect a range of complex domestic and global factors.” Tsiamalili stressed that he would not tolerate violent protests. He recalled the events of January 10th, which showed the problems that can arise from ill-informed protests. "As Papua New Guineans we are better than that. We are Melanesians, and as Melanesians we resolve differences and raise disputes in a peaceful way.” The Minister encouraged students and all citizens to use proper channels to address concerns, such as writing to the Prime Minister and Government. He highlighted that students, as future leaders, have the ability to contribute positively to public discourse.

A prime suspect in the July 2024 Angoram massacre in East Sepik Province, where 26 Tambari villagers were killed, has surrendered to police. Jerome Malakai, identified through a viral video, turned himself to police in at Pinang village on August 12th, according to the Commander for Border Command, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Perou N'Dranou “Police in Wewak had brought the suspect to Wewak Police station and is now detained for further investigation and arrest." "The surrender of the main suspect was made possible after police officers and the village leaders worked closely to go through the videos by putting names on their faces and identifying the location of the suspects." "I want to thank my officers for a well-organized operation that led to the main suspect's surrender." "At least one is now in custody the other will still come." ACP N'Dranou stated that the investigation will determine why the suspect, and his gang killed their fellow villagers. He emphasized that the swift police response in apprehending one suspect has provided some closure to the public, further assuring that police, in collaboration with community leaders, are actively working to identify and prosecute all those involved in the massacre, noting that over 30 men were involved in the incident, which resulted in significant loss of life and property. He also urged relatives of those involved to give them up. “I want to call on the people of Tambari to help the police to give the names of those involved - since one had been identified and is in police custody, others must also come forward and surrender to police." "The innocent relatives of those involved must not hide those culprits but bring them forward so they will face the law themselves for what they did; this will help keep the relatives of those involved isolated from the incident."

The New Guinea Islands (NGI) Police Command has officially welcomed a new leader. On Friday, August 9th, outgoing Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Perou N’Dranou handed over the reins to incoming ACP Naua Vanuawaru in a formal ceremony at the Islands Police regional headquarters in Ralum, Kokopo, East New Britain. ACP N’Dranou, who has already moved to his new post as ACP Border Command, expressed satisfaction with his tenure in the Islands Command. “I leave the New Guinea Islands Police Command, feeling satisfied,” he said during the handover ceremony. Reflecting on his time in the role, ACP N’Dranou acknowledged the support of the NGI leaders and police officers. “Without your support, we will not have fared well in the policing services to our people in the Islands region," he stated. He also extended his gratitude to all stakeholders for their unwavering assistance. During his tenure, which began in 2022, ACP N’Dranou implemented several key initiatives to improve police operations in the region. These include: - A reporting system for daily situational reports (SITREPS) and Major Incident Briefs (MIB). - Weekly briefings to assess police station commanders (PSCs) at all stations and sub-units. - A Performance Assessment system evaluating all members daily. - A De-Merit point system for the Deputy Divisional Commander and the four Provincial Police Commanders (PPCs). However, ACP N’Dranou admitted that there were still tasks left unfinished, which he hopes the new leadership will address. “What has not been achieved is of concern to the new team to make right or complete the tasks that I have started." He emphasized his role in supervising and developing his subordinates to succeed him. The incoming ACP, Naua Vanuawaru, praised ACP N’Dranou for his efforts in leading the Islands Divisional Command and acknowledged the challenges of the role. “The Island Command is among the challenging commands in the country, given the maritime setting of the provinces,” ACP Vanuwaru said. He assured that the work started by his predecessor would continue, especially with the support of the Australian Federal Police. The handover ceremony was attended by ENB Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Chief Inspector Felix Nebanat, Chief Migration Officer John Nungu, and members of the Islands

The body of Central Bougainville MP, Simon Dumarinu, arrived in Port Moresby on Sunday evening, marking a solemn moment for the nation as it mourns the loss of a respected leader. Prime Minister James Marape was present at Jackson Airport to receive the casket, which was then transported to the funeral home, where it will remain until Parliament resumes on September 3rd. Reflecting on the loss, Marape stated, “It was heartbreaking this evening to receive the body of a fallen comrade." "The people of Bougainville have lost a stalwart, Papua New Guinea as a whole has lost a peacemaker and an intermediary.” The late Simon Dumarinu, affectionately known as Father Simon, passed away on August 9, 2024. Born on April 4, 1956, he dedicated his life to both spiritual and political service, playing a key role in the Bougainville peace process. His passing has deeply affected his colleagues and constituents alike. Prime Minister Marape extended his condolences to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), its leader, NCD Governor Powes Parkop, Deputy Leader Dr. Billy Joseph, and Regional Member for Bougainville and Internal Security Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr., who accompanied the body from Bougainville to Port Moresby. The Prime Minister also informed the public that a haus krai (mourning period) will continue until September 3rd, when the National Parliament will formally receive his body. Father Simon's legacy as a peace advocate and leader will be remembered as the nation pays its respects during this time of mourning.

Prime Minister James Marape has urged all Members of Parliament to prioritize their health, highlighting the immense pressure and scrutiny they face daily from their constituents. The Prime Minister made this call following the recent passing of several MPs, emphasizing the need for public officials to be more conscious of their well-being. "I urge all MPs to look after their health, given the immense pressure and scrutiny they are under 24/7 from their people," Marape stated. He noted the importance of self-care in the demanding roles MPs hold and called for immediate action to prevent further losses. Prime Minister Marape also expressed his condolences to the families and supporters of the late MPs and reiterated the importance of health awareness among the nation's leaders. "We have lost several MPs recently, and I call on every one of them to be more conscious of their health," he added. This statement comes at a time of reflection for the nation's leadership, as the pressures of political life continue to take a toll on those in office. The Prime Minister's remarks serve as a reminder of the personal cost of public service and the need for proactive health management.

North Fly MP, James Donald, has issued a statement on Sunday, August 11th, demanding the immediate resignation of Administrative Services Minister, Richard Masere, due to his poor handling of the 2024 Census and unresolved questions surrounding a K17 million contract for tablets. Initially scheduled for June 17-30, the census has seen significant delays, says Donald who is also People's Reform Party leader. Donald alleged there are 'no results' so far, criticising Masere’s leadership, and labelling it a 'disgrace'. "With all due respect to Minister Masere, I ask him to do the decent thing expected of him as a public official and resign over his handling of the failed census," Donald's statement read. "So many issues have plagued this national event from the start, ranging from unpaid allowances, logistical issues, lack of resources, and other technical glitches." Singling out the most controversial aspect of the census, Donald highlighted the K17 million contract for 22, 000 tablets. Donald raised concerns about the contractor’s credentials, questioning their ability to supply such technology. He further suggested a personal connection between Minister Masere and the contractor, deepening suspicions of misconduct. "In addition, highly reliable sources indicate there is an alleged personal connection between the minister and the contractor," Donald stated. He urged Prime Minister James Marape to act but expressed doubt, saying, "I call on the minister to resign as I know Prime Minister Marape won't have the moral integrity to sack him for his failure to execute this important project." Donald described the census as another poorly planned and underfunded government project. He also blamed Prime Minister Marape for setting up Masere to fail by appointing him to oversee such a significant national task without sufficient support. "Minister Masere was expected to deliver one of the most significant planning milestones in our calendar this year, but it has been a disaster." Donald further criticized the political influence in government operations, arguing that the responsibility for the census should have been left with the National Statistical Office (NSO). His statement further points out that the government failed to provide the NSO with the necessary funding on time, leading to last-minute delays. "All the government had to do was ensure NSO received their funding on time; we know this was not the case," he said. Some provinces have managed to make progress, but only due to the intervention of provincial governments and district administrations. "Many of our provincial governments had to step in and assist the census officials with resources, funding, and other logistical support because the government failed their part."

The PNG Garramuts U19 cricket team is returning to Port Moresby today, Monday August 12th after an extraordinary victory at the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup East Asia-Pacific (EAP) Division 2 Qualifier in Samoa. The team, led by the dynamic Gaba Frank, claimed the championship in a stunning display of skill and determination, sealing their place in the next round of regional qualification. The Garramuts are set to touch down at Jackson’s Airport this afternoon at 1:40 PM, bringing home not just the trophy but also the pride of a nation. Their journey to victory was marked by dominant performances throughout the tournament, culminating in a decisive 232-run win over Indonesia in the grand final. The tournament, held in Apia, Samoa, saw the PNG team maintain an unbeaten record, underlining their superiority in the region. In the final, Indonesia won the toss and opted to bowl, but their hopes of containing the Garramuts were quickly dashed. PNG’s opening pair, Dauncey Tom and Frank Collin Naime, set the tone with a commanding 131-run partnership. Tom was particularly impressive, scoring 70 runs off 79 balls, while Naime contributed a solid 48 before falling. The middle order, powered by Vagi Morea’s 45 off 43 balls and an explosive 69 from Lekwa Henao Nao, ensured PNG posted a formidable total of 330 for seven. Indonesia’s response was dismantled early by PNG’s seamer, Ware Robin, who took two crucial wickets in the third over. The Indonesian batting lineup struggled to recover, with further damage inflicted by Wallace Nou and captain Gaba Frank. Indonesia was eventually bowled out for 98 in the 49th over, sealing PNG’s dominant win and their passage to the next qualifying round. Gaba Frank, who has been a standout throughout the tournament, not only led the team to victory but also shone individually with both bat and ball. Frank’s contributions included scores of 59 against Indonesia and 50 against Samoa, along with impressive bowling figures of 4/26 and 3/16 in the same matches. His leadership and all-round abilities were instrumental in the team’s success. Reflecting on the victory, Frank said, “It means a lot, we’ve trained hard for this, and it’s been seven months of preparation." "I think back home, all of our families in PNG will be proud of us." "We’re excited right now, and with the future matches against Japan and Fiji, we hope to bring the regional title back to PNG.” The team’s next challenge will be the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup East Asia-Pacific Qualifier in Japan, where they will face Japan and Fiji in April 2025. The winner of that tournament will secure a spot at the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 in Zimbabwe and Namibia. The Garramuts’ triumph has not only secured their place in the next round but has also highlighted the bright future of cricket in PNG. Acting ICC Regional Development Manager for East Asia-Pacific, Toby Cohen, praised the team’s performance, saying, “Congratulations to Papua New Guinea, who were clearly deserving winners." "I wish them all the best for the U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup EAP Qualifier in Japan next year.” As the Garramuts return home as champions, their families, friends, Cricket PNG and the nation will celebrate their success and eagerly anticipates their next challenge on the road to the World Cup. Their victory in Samoa is a testament to their hard work, resilience, and the growing strength of cricket in Papua New Guinea. ICC stands for the International Cricket Council, which is the global governing body for the sport of cricket, responsible for organizing international tournaments, setting the rules of the game, and overseeing the rankings and development of cricket worldwide.