The 27th Euro Pacific Coca Cola National Mask and Warwagira Festival kicked off with the renowned 'Kinavai' ritual on June 10th, setting the stage for a vibrant celebration of culture and tradition in Rabaul. The early morning ceremony took place at the Montevideo Maru Monument beachfront, featuring the revered Tolai Tubuans and Dukduks arriving in canoes at dawn, a sight that drew tourists and locals alike as early as 4 am. This year's festival, spanning four days from July 10th to July 13th, promises a blend of traditional and contemporary performances. Festival Organizing Committee Chairman Isaac Ilom praised the Rabaul district leaders and ENB Provincial Member Michael Marum for orchestrating a breathtaking Kinavai ceremony. "The return of the festival to Rabaul is evident in the spectacular display of tubuan performances," Ilom remarked, noting the good turnout on the first day and anticipating even larger crowds for the main events at Queen Elizabeth Park. Deputy Committee Chairman Tiolam Wawaga echoed these sentiments, expressing satisfaction with the festival's relocation back to Rabaul after years in Kokopo. Despite logistical challenges, Wawaga remains optimistic about the future, stating, "We are confident that next year will be a bigger and better show." The festival's lineup was slightly altered this year, with the program reduced from five to four days and no night events scheduled. This decision was influenced by logistical concerns and ongoing law and order issues in the district. Nonetheless, the committee confirmed that the festival would proceed as planned, despite airline cancellations and other challenges, as the event wraps up its third day of festivities on Friday, July 12). The Festival officially ends Saturday, July 13. Tourism remains a significant aspect of the festival, with local tour operator Dominic Tulo bringing in seven tourists from France on the first day. Tulo suggested condensing the festival to two days to maximize performances and draw more visitors. "More tourists and locals would attend if the shows were packed into fewer days," he noted. The first two days of the festival featured the traditional Tubuan Kinavai ceremony and mask dance performances, while unmask cultural displays were scheduled for Friday, July 12th. The festivities will culminate with live string bands and power bands today July 13th. Corporate sponsors have played a crucial role in supporting the festival, and key sponsors include Euro-Pacific Coca Cola, Kumul Consolidated Holdings, Moni Plus, Trukai Industries, Vodafone, Paradise Foods, BSP, SP Brewery, MVIL, Panamex, and Telikom PNG Ltd. Wawaga expressed gratitude for their contributions, which have been instrumental in the festival's preparation and execution. The festival also provides a platform for local SMEs and cultural groups. Each performing group registers with a K100 fee, covering transportation expenses and providing an appreciation reward based on their performance. SME booths are available for K200, and there is a K100 tourist pass for visitors. Security has been a priority during the festival, with police and security personnel ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for all attendees. "We aim to create a family-friendly event that leaves lasting memories for both locals and tourists," Wawaga emphasized. Gate entry fees are set at K2.00 for adults, K1.00 for students, and 50 toea for children, making the festival accessible to a wide audience, and you can catch some of the action on today, Saturday, July 13. The National Mask and Warwagira Festival continues to be a beacon of cultural pride and celebration in East New Britain, drawing crowds from near and far to witness the rich traditions and vibrant performances of the Tolai people. As the festival unfolds, Rabaul stands as a testament to the enduring spirit and cultural heritage of Papua New Guinea.

The East New Britain provincial appeal drive for donations towards the affected people of Maip Muritaka rural LLG in Enga Province, ends Saturday, July 13th. The appeal drive has been running for two weeks, and on Monday, July 6th, an official fundraising drive was also launched by ENB Deputy Provincial Administrator for District and LLG Services Nicholas Larme was accompanied by the Director of the Provincial Disaster Division Donald Tokunai at the local NBC East New Britain radio station in Kokopo. They urged the public in ENB to donate non-food items at the ENB Provincial Administration’s Disaster Division in Kokopo. On Saturday, July 13th , all the donations will be sorted out and sent over to the communities that are affected by the massive landslide that occurred in Enga Province. According to the Red Cross organization on ground, the number of deaths, and casualties, among other pertinent details, are still yet to be confirmed in what is being known as one of the largest and most devastating disasters in the country, which occurred on May 24, at 3:00 a.m. when a landslide struck Yambali village in the Maip Muritaka LLG of Lagaip-Porgera District. The landslide covered 2 communities and 6 villages, including a school, health facility, water sources, and houses, with mud and rocks. An estimated 7,849 people were affected, with 1,650 people displaced, with local authorities still working on relocation efforts, as more humanitarian aid continues to pour in from bilateral countries, and both local and global organisations. The main highway was blocked, cutting off access to food supplies and essential services. The district is also home to the country’s largest gold mine operations, As for the appeal drive in East New Britain, both Mr Larme and Mr Tokunai stated that given East New Britain is a disaster-prone province with the volcano and other minor natural calamities, it is only fitting that it’s government and people continue to support other fellow country men and women affected by tragedy. Mr. Larme said that the province received a lot of assistance from organizations, provinces and individuals during the 1994 volcanic eruptions that devastated the province, and therefore it is time to give back to those in need. “We are part of a global community, so we must support each other.” “The ENB Provincial government and administration will assist the group at the PNG University of Natural Resources and Environment (UNRE) to bring their donations over, and likewise, the donations received at the Disaster office,” he said. Mr. Tokunai added that the appeal drive is for non-food items such as clothing and kitchen utensils, which can be still be dropped off at the Disaster office at the Kokopo Fire Station. “We have received a number of items this week and officers are there to assist anyone that comes in with their donations.”

The Port Moresby Women's Softball Association (PMWSA) has announced the revised quarter-final draw for the Corporate Slow Pitch Softball Competition, ensuring teams with Saturday work commitments can still compete. The much-anticipated games will kick off at 8 AM this Saturday, July 13, promising an exciting day of do-or-die matchups where winners advance, and losers bow out. The competition will culminate in finals play-offs across four categories: Cup, Plate, Bowl, and Shield. Teams finishing 1st and 2nd in the standings will battle for the prestigious Cup. The Plate will be contested by the 3rd and 4th place teams, while the 5th and 6th place teams vie for the Bowl. Meanwhile, the Shield will be up for grabs between the 7th and 8th place teams. Unfortunately, teams finishing 9th in Pools A, B, and C will not proceed to the final’s series. "This revised schedule is designed to accommodate our corporate teams' commitments and ensure everyone gets a fair chance to compete." That’s according to Ian Soweni, PMWSA’s president. "The quarterfinals are always an exciting and intense phase of the competition, and we're looking forward to seeing some great matches." The PMWSA encourages all participants and supporters to arrive on time and be prepared for a day filled with thrilling softball action. In an email, the association president also extends the association’s best wishes to all the teams competing and looks forward to a successful conclusion to the season. For more details and updates, fans and participants can contact the PMWSA through their official channels.

The Lae Schools Rugby League Competition is set to culminate its 2024 season with a grand closing ceremony scheduled for this Saturday, July 13, at the Lae Secondary School. Participants including teachers, helpers, match officials, medical officers, and media personnel are urged to convene at the school by 9am to mark the conclusion of another successful season. This year's competition has been a testament to the dedication and sportsmanship of Lae's youth, with teams showcasing their skills and passion for rugby league throughout the season. The event not only promotes healthy competition but also fosters camaraderie among students from various schools across Lae, with the Lae Schools Rugby League Competition remaining committed to nurturing talent, promoting healthy lifestyles, and instilling values of teamwork and fair play among Lae's youth. The Organising Committee thanks Deputy Prime Minister and Lae Open MP, John Rosso, serving as the competition's patron alongside the Lae City Authority, who has been instrumental in supporting the league's growth and impact on local communities. Sponsors including Ian Chow and Lae Biscuit Company, Lae Snax Tigers, Adrian Chow & Prima Smallgoods, and Lae Secondary School under Principal Mr. Raymond have also played pivotal roles in ensuring the success of the season. "We are grateful for the unwavering support from our sponsors and partners, whose contributions have made this season possible," said the organizing committee. "Their support not only enhances sports development but also promotes positive engagement among our youth." The ceremony will feature presentations of awards and recognition to outstanding teams, players, and contributors who have demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication, and sportsmanship throughout the season, and will be an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of all participants and reflect on the positive impact of sports in the community.

Development for Wushu in Papua New Guinea has received a significant boost following an international training course for Wushu coaches in Jiangyin City, China. Hosted by the Chinese Wushu Association and sanctioned by the International Wushu Federation (IWUF), the course ran from 27th June to 3rd July 2024 and covered training in both Sanda (combat sparring) and Taolu (forms/patterns). Coaches from various countries, including China, attended the seminar, where former and current Sanda World Champions shared their expertise. Andrew Molen, Development Officer for the Kung Fu Wushu Association of Papua New Guinea (KFWA PNG), represented PNG at the course. “It was a great experience. I learned a lot, especially about throwing and wrestling techniques, which are key components in Sanda” “This adds to our knowledge and skills base to train our athletes,” Molen said. The course covered topics such as strength and conditioning, anti-doping, athlete mindset management, sports science, and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TMA). Practical sessions included light sparring, shadow boxing, strikes, throws, and wrestling. Participants also underwent written and practical exams. Meanwhile, Geoff Hui, President of KFWA PNG, emphasized the importance of the course for the sport's continuous development. He thanked IWUF, the Oceania Kung Fu Wushu Federation, and the Chinese Wushu Association for the invitation and for ensuring PNG's participation. “Our main focus now is on Sanda, and this course will greatly boost our current programme in PNG,” said Hui. KFWA PNG is currently running a Development Squad program in Port Moresby, which began in April. Despite a late start due to a lack of support from the country's sporting authorities, the program is progressing well with 12 athletes. The program is led by Molen in preparation for future international events. “It takes time to instil proper techniques, fitness, and technical knowledge in an athlete. That’s why we have this development program,” Molen said. Hui stated that KFWA PNG will continue participating in international training programs to build the capacity of its athletes and officials. He also appealed to corporate organizations and the government to partner with KFWA PNG to develop Wushu as both a sport and a way of life. “Wushu promotes peace, discipline, good health, and well-being for all ages. For those who wish to compete, there are opportunities to travel nationally and internationally to represent their province or country,” Hui said. He noted that Sanda athletes can transition to other professional combat sports such as MMA, Muay Thai, Kickboxing, or Boxing and that Sanda has its own professional circuit. Hui emphasized that Wushu, especially Sanda, is open to athletes from other combat styles who wish to have another opportunity to compete.

It seems the now side-lined Petroleum Minister, Jimmy Maladina, in a court battle over allegations of a domestic assault charge in Australia, was also involved in another court matter from a family court held in Port Moresby in early December. According to the document, released to the media, and viewed by PNGHAUSBUNG, the document is a family court protection order against Maladina. The family court in Port Moresby on December 5th, 2023, issued a permanent protection order against the 58-year-old Esa’ala MP, on December 5, 2023. The order presided over by Her Worship, Magistrate Rossie Aize Jonson, mandates that Maladina, his relatives, agents, and associates must refrain from any form of harassment or violence towards the complainant, named in this family court matter, and her family. That court's decision includes strict prohibitions on assault, intimidation, and abuse, with Maladina and his affiliates barred from sending abusive messages or making defamatory posts on social media against the complainant and her family. Additionally, they are forbidden from using violence to interfere with the complainant’s daily life or from preventing her and her children from residing in their jointly owned property in the National Capital District. In the event of a breach of these conditions, the police are authorized to arrest Maladina and bring him before the court on contempt charges. This protection order is set to last for 24 months, expiring on December 5, 2025.

The Central Provincial Government has made a strong statement addressing the recent eviction of illegal settlers from the Bush Wara area in Port Moresby North West which began on Thursday, July 11th. While acknowledging the challenges faced by those displaced, the Central Government maintains a firm position against unauthorized settlement within Central Province. Governor Rufina Peter has stressed that the province has a strict policy against illegal settlements, aimed at maintaining the integrity and sustainability of the land. "Our commitment to preserving the integrity of Central Province is unwavering," she stated. "Anyone considering moving onto our land without proper authorization will face immediate and decisive action." To enforce this policy, the Central Provincial Government is collaborating with law enforcement agencies to prevent unauthorized settlements. Increased patrols and surveillance will be conducted in key areas to ensure compliance with land use policies. "Illegal activities will be met with the full force of the law," Governor Peter added. The provincial government encourages displaced individuals to seek legal avenues for resettlement and development. "We are open to assisting those who follow proper procedures and contribute positively to our communities.” The government aims to foster sustainable development and ensure that all residents have access to necessary services and opportunities. The Central Provincial Government also expressed empathy towards those evicted from Bush Wara, urging them to pursue lawful means of resettlement. "Moving illegally into Central Province is not a viable solution and will not be tolerated," Peter warned. The government’s stance is clear: unauthorized settlement disrupts the stability and prosperity of the province. "We remain dedicated to protecting our land and upholding the law.” Governor Peter further stating that the cooperation and understanding of all stakeholders are crucial in ensuring the province's continued prosperity and stability. For further information or assistance, individuals are encouraged to contact the Central Provincial Government’s Division of Land and Urban Development.

The eviction of illegal squatters from 9-Mile Bush Wara in Port Moresby began today without incident. The National Capital District and Central Provinces police, led by Assistant Commissioner Peter Guinness, reported a peaceful and cooperative atmosphere as the first day of the court-ordered eviction took effect. Police had prepared for potential confrontation today, but ACP Guinness commended both the officers and the settlers for their cooperation. "I want to thank my police officers and the sheriff officers for a well-coordinated awareness program that led to the first day of eviction being carried out peacefully." "The public must understand that police presence on-site was to execute the court order. " "We have families there too, but we have no choice but to do our mandated duty. " "The 120-day grace period was enough time for everyone to move out as per the court order." The eviction, ordered by the Waigani National Court, follows a 120-day grace period granted to the squatters to vacate the land owned by Nambawan Super Limited (NSL). The court issued Writs of Possession on March 12, 2024, and the final day for voluntary departure was July 10, 2024. Despite the time given, some residents were still in the process of removing their homes and possessions as the eviction commenced. According to ACP Guinness, most of the houses on the three portions of land—2156, 2157, and 2159—had already been removed. Those still in the process were urged to expedite their efforts to avoid property damage. "The squatters who were making an attempt to remove their properties were told not to be damaged but to give them time to remove it while the machines moved to other locations.” The police and sheriff officers conducted extensive awareness campaigns leading up to the eviction, informing the settlers of the impending action and their need to relocate. These efforts ensured that the squatters were well-informed and contributed to the smooth execution of the eviction. The Supreme Court had dismissed an appeal by the squatters on June 26, reinforcing the validity of the March 12 court order and enabling today's actions. ACP Guinness stressed the importance of adhering to legal processes and learning from this experience. He thanked those who complied with the court order and removed their houses and properties voluntarily, emphasizing that the eviction serves as a reminder of the importance of following the law.

In a significant development, the District Court in Waigani has temporarily withdrawn the sexual offense allegations against Goroka MP Aiye Tambua today (Thursday, July 11th). Magistrate Paul Puri Nii ruled that the case would be sent back to the police department for reassignment by Police Commissioner David Manning. The ruling follows concerns over disputed police evidence, necessitating a fresh investigation by a different team. Tambua, who was present in court, left immediately after the ruling. The court's decision highlights serious issues within the police investigative process, as outlined by Magistrate Nii in his detailed ruling. Investigator’s Concerns - the decision to withdraw the case was influenced by an affidavit filed on July 8, 2024, by First Constable Adriana Kamasunga, a key investigator. Constable Kamasunga revealed that the evidence presented in court was collected by "unknown police officers", despite her involvement in the investigation and arrest of Tambua. Kamasunga stated that as the investigator from the Sexual Offence squad, she was responsible for compiling the Hand Up Brief. She expressed concern that the evidence with Polic Prosecutor Chris Iga did not include material from her division, indicating that the evidence was incomplete and disputable. However, the prosecutor submitted today to all the case to proceed. But the court was of a different view following its consideration from disputing police evidence in the matter, with Magistrate Nii sternly emphasizing the gravity of the situation, noting that internal police conflicts were undermining the integrity of the investigation. "A police officer is disputing police evidence and thus this is unhealthy for the police case. Police now appear to have divided interests." He stressed that the police force must serve the state's interests by conducting professional, unbiased investigations. "Police should collect independent, untainted and reliable merit-based evidence to corroborate any allegations against the offenders of laws," Nii stated. He then issued seven orders from the Court to "ensure justice and fairness," on all parties involved - the alleged victim, the defendant, Tambua who is still presumed innocent until proven otherwise by a court of law, police and the State, which represents the people of PNG. Magistrate Nii ordered that the "allegations against Tambua be temporarily withdrawn and referred back to the office of the Police Commissioner". He instructed the Commissioner to address the administrative issues within the criminal investigative process and to appoint a neutral investigator from the Sexual Offences squad to handle the case. Nii highlighted the need for a proper investigation based on merit, free from internal politics. "For the interest of justice & fairness, I will make an order that will be Justice in the circumstances.” “The victims needed justice so does the defendant," he stated. The court also ordered that Tambua's bail be refunded, and his bail obligations discharged. The Commissioner of Police has been given the liberty to reopen the case and repeat the entire investigative process whenever deemed appropriate. Magistrate Nii's ruling underscores the critical need for reform within the police force administration to prevent internal conflicts from compromising the integrity of investigations. "This is a serious issue...this is unhealthy...courts will not sort out police administrative disputes," he said, and further urged the media present to report accurately these orders.

NCD police say eviction at Nine Mile Bush Wara's Portions 2156, 2157, and 2159 in Port Moresby began peacefully with no resistance from the settlers. Many people had already taken down their houses and important material and properties after several awareness carried out by police and sheriff officers. Wednesday was the last day of the awareness program and eviction began today as per the court order. Police say most of the illegal squatters on the three portions of Nambawan Super Limited (NSL) have accepted that they need to move. While people are still moving their houses, machine operators on site have been advised to avoid damaging the houses of people who are making the attempt to move before the machines arrived on site. The eviction exercise started today following a 120-day court ordered grace period, and police say it will continue.

The Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) and the "Black Wednesday" riots began today, with significant funding delays causing concern. In his opening remarks, COI Commissioner Justice Elenias Batari did not mince his words and criticized the National Government. He stated, "All we have heard is talks about funding, and yet we have not seen any tangible result of that talk." Justice Batari emphasized the importance of immediate financial support for the inquiry, which is expected to conclude within six months. He also highlighted that he had to manage his duties as a serving judge on the Supreme and National Court bench while preparing for the inquiry. He said this is one of the reasons for the delay too in the COI because, in the last three months, he had to deal with his caseload in court. Justice Batari explained today that the COI's mandate includes reviewing the police force's structure, governance, and the events of January 10th, 2024. "The Commission of Inquiry is asked to review, determine, and table a report with recommendations on the following matters," stated Justice Batari. COI Lead Counsel, Pondros Kaluwin, outlined the investigation's key points, including whether the current police force is effectively resourced in terms of manpower and resources, if the training of police personnel meets international standards, and whether the police operation ratio aligns with global practices. Kaluwin further outlined that the COI will investigate the transparency and corporate governance in the implementation of public funds associated with the RPNGC's operations. This includes scrutinizing the use of funds and proposing necessary changes to the Police Act of 1988 to reflect current developments in policing. Additionally, the COI will explore the events leading up to and following the January 10th events, assessing the involvement of senior police members and the impact of their actions. Justice Batari announced that the first hearing is scheduled for July 15th, stating, "Today, as I indicated, is the opening session of the inquiry, of which the Commission will be able to table our work plan and start with the first sittings to be held on the 15th of July, the 24th of next week.” The Commissioner called for full public cooperation and support, particularly from serving members of the police force, public servants, and former members of the RPNGC. "Persons with relevant experiences and knowledge and expertise are also invited to come forward to assist the Commission of Inquiry by providing information on the operations of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary with constructive suggestions on moving forward.” Justice Batari also assured that witness protection protocols would be strictly observed, and the COI would maintain a high level of confidentiality and security of documents. "Witness protection protocols will be observed at all times and enforced, and the Commission of Inquiry will also maintain a high level of confidentiality and security of documents and evidence," he emphasized. In his closing remarks, he again expressed hope that funding would soon be secured to ensure the COI's progress. "Hopefully by then some funding should be made available," he stated. The first hearing is scheduled for July 15th at 9am, with sessions primarily held in Port Moresby and potential hearings in other provinces if necessary. Also in attendance in the opening session were Commissioner of Police, David Manning, his deputies, Assistant Commissioners of Police, and other senior members of the RPNGC hierarchy and management, whom the COI Commissioner thanked for turning up. “Thank you, Police Commissioner, Mr David Manning, and your deputies, and the police force, members of the public, and the media, thank you again for attending this opening session." ‘ "The Commission is adjourned until the 15th of July.”

Today,(Monday, July 8) an Independent Commission of Inquiry (COI) begins at APEC House in Port Moresby, led by COI Commissioner Justice Ellenas Batari. This inquiry is set to investigate the civil unrest that occurred in Port Moresby on January 10, 2024, known as Black Wednesday, or as Prime Minister James Marape calls it, "Ugly Wednesday". The focus will be on the adequacy and capacity of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) in terms of resources, training, and organizational structure. The opening session started at 10 am, and hearings will continue from July 15th, onwards. The Commission of Inquiry has been established under the Commission of Inquiry Act 1951 (Chapter 31) to address concerns regarding the RPNGC and their handling of the events that led to the unrest. According to Commissioner Justice Batari in a published public notice on July 5th, the inquiry will review, determine, and table a report with recommendations on several key matters. First, the COI will assess whether the current RPNGC organizational structure and the Police Command and Control Structure are adequate and efficient for the circumstances of the country. This includes examining the functions of the Police Force under the Constitution to determine if they meet the needs of the population. Second, the inquiry will investigate if the Police Force is adequately resourced. This involves evaluating funding, manpower resources, facilities, equipment, and welfare provisions to ensure that the RPNGC can effectively carry out its diverse functions and duties both in the National Capital and throughout the country. Third, the COI will examine the training of police personnel by determining if the training is appropriate and adequate for the circumstances of Papua New Guinea and if it aligns with international standards and practices. This includes looking into the police-to-population ratio to see if it is consistent with international benchmarks. Additionally, the inquiry will evaluate whether the operational strategies of the RPNGC are relevant and practicable for the country's context. It will also consider if these strategies are consistent with police practices and procedures. The COI will further investigate the management of public funds associated with RPNGC operations; this includes ensuring transparency and corporate governance in the use of funds, particularly in priority areas of law and order. Another critical aspect of the inquiry will be to review the Police Act 1988. The COI will determine if the Act needs to be updated to reflect current developments and changes in policing in the 21st century. The events leading to the civil unrest on January 10, 2024, will also be a major focus. The COI will investigate what transpired on or prior to that date, particularly the gathering of RPNGC members at Unagi Oval. It will determine if the top management of the RPNGC had prior knowledge of the gathering and the subsequent protest march. If so, the COI will examine what measures were taken by top management to allow or prevent the protest. The inquiry will look into the causes of the protest and whether senior members of the RPNGC were involved. It will also investigate if the Human Resource Division and Police Association were aware of the tax and salary adjustments that reportedly triggered the unrest. The COI will assess the anticipated impact of these adjustments and what steps were taken to mitigate them. Furthermore, the inquiry will determine if the protest was lawful and if individuals or groups incited the civil unrest. It will establish what legal measures can be taken against those involved in the protest and unrest. The inquiry aims to provide a comprehensive review and recommend necessary changes to improve the RPNGC and prevent future unrest, and enhance safety and security of Papua News Guinea. Following today's opening session, the COI will commence hearings on July 15th, and the public will be informed of the dates for each sitting of the Commission of Inquiry through further notices.