The country's Opposition side has filed a Supreme Court application to question the CONNECT PNG program, a flagstone of the Marape government. Opposition Leader Douglas Tomuriesa, who filed the case, said the Alternative Government seeks the high court's interpretation over 'certain issues', specifically the laws relating to public spending, and about several millions of funds allocated to this program the last few years. "As the Leader of the Opposition, I have filed a Section 18 Supreme Court Reference seeking the Court's interpretation over certain issues with the Connect PNG Program that the government is handling," Mr. Tomuriesa explained. "We have filed a case in the Supreme Court to review how the government is handling the funds for this program." "As the Opposition, it is our job to make sure the government is following the laws of Papua New Guinea, especially when it comes to spending public money." "The main concern we have is whether the government has been properly allocating and using the funds for the Connect PNG Program." "We believe that the money, which is a significant amount, has not been transferred or used according to the legal requirements." "The funds in question include K257 million in 2021, K628 million in 2022, K785 million in 2023, and K261 million in January 2024," the Opposition Leader said. He further said, "We want to make sure that every kina of public money is spent legally and transparently (as) this is important not just for the current project but also for maintaining public trust in how the government handles finances." "Our application seeks clarity from the Supreme Court on several constitutional sections that deal with the management of public funds." "These sections are essential for ensuring that the government uses public money responsibly and is held accountable." "By filing this case, we aim to protect the interests of the people of Papua New Guinea." "We want to make sure that all government spending is done correctly and benefits everyone in the country." "The Opposition is committed to ensuring transparency, accountability, and proper use of public funds (and) we believe that this case will help clarify how public money should be managed and ensure it is used for the right purposes." This new application is scheduled for hearing on July 2nd, 2024. Meantime, Mr. Tomuriesa appeared this morning before a five-men Supreme Court bench led by the Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika for his other Supreme Court matter where he is seeking interpretation on the laws, rules and processes relating to a vote of no-confidence motion.

A combined total of K37.5 million in financial aid has been contributed towards providing relief support for an estimated total of 155 villages in Western Province affected by severe floods along the Fly River. According to Western Governor Taboi Awi Yoto those affected involve around 20,000 people displaced by the flooding, and they immediately need fresh drinking water, food, temporary shelter, and medical assistance. The aid relief for the affected communities lie along the Fly River following a flood disaster that has caused major displacement of people in various districts of the province, include K10 million from the National Government, K20 million from Ok Tedi Mining Ltd, K6 million from the Western Provincial Government and district authorities, K1 million from the National Disaster Office, and K500,000 from the Department of Works and Highways. Prime Minister James Marape has already been to visit the affected areas, and has expressed his sympathies, taking the time on Friday, June 21, to engage with the communities and comfort them, as he offered the said immediate relief and restoration assistance from the National Government. This follows his urgent trip to Western Province, accompanied by Minister for Works and Telefomin MP Solan Mirisim and Defense Minister and Nipa-Kutubu MP Dr. Billy Joseph, to visit the hardest-hit areas to assess the damage and express their sympathy. When arriving in Kiunga, North Fly District - together with Western Province Members of Parliament in an Ok Tedi Mining Ltd sponsored charter Flight from Port Moresby - Prime Minister Marape flew by helicopter to the most affected areas in three electorates - Obo (Middle Fly), Suki (South Fly) and Hawaba (Delta Fly). The Prime Minister has since arranged for fresh food supplies from neighboring districts of Nipa in the Southern Highlands and Tari-Pori, his electorate in the Hela Province, and Telefomin in West Sepik to assist the affected communities. “After visiting the most affected areas of Obo, Suki and Hawaba in Western Province along the Fly River following the flood disaster, the government is offering immediate assistance in terms of funding and food supplies, as the affected communities are experiencing hunger with their homes underwater right now.” “Relocation and long-term restoration of the people in these affected villages are also being looked at,” said Prime Minister Marape upon re-turning to Kiunga airport the same day. “I commend the leaders of Western Province for raising the concern for their people and putting the proposal through for us to ensure relief and permanent restoration for our people in the affected communities take place.”

The National Executive Council has re-appointed Mr Jerry Garry for a second term as the Managing Director for the Mineral Resources Authority (MRA). On Thursday, June 20th, Mr Garry signed his new four-year contract of employment at the Government House at Konedobu in Port Moresby. Mr Garry first served in this capacity from 2019 to 2022. Since 2022 he has been serving as the Acting MD until his re-appointment early this year by NEC. Mr Garry said his re-appointment and the signing of his contract, paves the way for MRA to focus on its key priorities in the mining sector, which includes the successful conclusion of the Community Development Agreement (CDA) for the Porgera Project, and ensuring that the regulatory approval process and associated issues for the Wafi Golpu projects are managed effectively. The MD also thanked Prime Minister James Marape for having confidence in his leadership, and for the opportunity to continue to lead MRA. The signing occasion also saw several heads of overseas missions, who were recently commissioned, signing their contracts of employment.

The Buka Rugby Union's Komuniti Rugby 7s and mini 7s circuit will take a break this weekend. This is according to Coordinator Kelly Havara, who said the tournament, which kicked off last weekend in Hangan village, will pause to allow teams to recoup and restock. The second leg of the tournament will resume next weekend, June 28-30, at Hangan village, home of former Pukpuks 7s captain Hubert Tseraha. Havara emphasized that this break is part of the eight-weekend schedule, aiming to make the tournament more inclusive as it visits selected constituencies in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville. He said it has been a good start for the tournaments in paving the way for the much anticipated 2024 Black Orchid 7s. Havara said the Komuniti 7s goes on for 8 rounds till October later in the year. He said divisions currently contested are the under 16s who play as school teams under existing clubs in the competition. "Each participating school is attached to an affiliated club of Buka Rugby Union." He said it’s been a good start for the tournaments paving the way for the much anticipated 2024 Black Orchid 7s. The premier division has 12 teams, women's 8 teams, and under 20 is 12 teams as well. Havara reiterated the Komuniti Rugby concept unites AROB for the greater part and builds on the gradual evolvement of the code in the province. Following the Komuniti 7s initiative is the inaugural 'All Souls 7s' tournament in November, which is also a precursor to the famed Black Orchid 7s, and is invitational only. "All Souls will be two weeks before Black Orchid 7s." He said the All Souls tournament is to remember fallen Orchid brothers (Jimmy Pahia Semoso, Ian Tenevi and Monford Kehatsin) and also remember all our family members who have died as a result of the Bougainville crisis.

On Wednesday, June 19th, 2024, the 30th Papua New Guinea-Australia Annual Ministerial Forum took place in Port Moresby. The forum focused on enhancing bilateral relations and cooperation through the Comprehensive Strategic and Economic Partnership (CSEP). Discussions covered pillars like strong democracies, regional partnerships, and strategic cooperation for security and stability. Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatcheno said important topics included bilateral security agreements, defense cooperation, economic growth initiatives, and Australia’s efforts to build strategic trust with Pacific Island countries. “Pillar 2 of the Comprehensive Strategic and Economic Partnership is focused on strengthening ties with our neighbors and global partners." "I acknowledge the work of PNG and Australia, together, to reinforce Pacific unity and encourage Pacific consensus through transparent and inclusive decision-making in regional forums." "I also commend the established practice of Papua New Guinea and Australia helping each other in the region in times of crisis.” “We also discussed ways to further strengthen our Strategic Cooperation for Security and Stability between our two countries in key strategic areas." "These are; Bilateral Security Agreements, Policing and Justice, Defense Cooperation, Border and Maritime Security including Torres Strait Treaty, Cyber Security and Telecommunications, and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief,” said Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko. He said the PNG-Australia Forum highlighted economic and strategic cooperation, with emphasis on economic growth, business ties, trade, and investment between the two nations. The forum also highlighted the role of Senior Officials and Government to Business (G2B) forums in promoting trade facilitation. A significant focus was placed on the Australian Development Partnership, aligning with PNG’s Vision 2050 and Medium-Term Development Plan IV, targeting education, health, gender equality, women’s empowerment, and climate change for socio-economic development. PNG welcomed the initiative by Australia to build Strategic Trust between Australia and Pacific Island Countries and further welcomes the three tiered approach at the national, the sub-regional (Melanesian Spearhead Group/MSG) and regional levels. Note that to unlock greater economic potential, securing law and order is critical and PNG acknowledges Australia's continuous support in this sector. At the Ministerial Forum, a Joint Statement on Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) Cooperation was signed. Australia's current TVET investment in PNG is AU$60 million, with a request to increase it to AU$100 million. Minister Tkatchenko said this cooperation aims to build quality human resources in PNG to address development needs and challenges. The forum also addressed Labour Mobility and Human Resource Development focusing on the significance of the employment visa and Pacific Employment Visa (PEV) programs for human resource development and better livelihoods. PNG acknowledged Australia’s 50% participation in the PEV program, recognizing its contribution to enhancing labor mobility and community development. Minister Tkatchenko emphasized the importance of trust and cooperation in the bilateral relationship between PNG and Australia.

Governor-General Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae has commended census officers throughout the country for doing their best in carrying out the census exercise in the 2024 National Population Census. The Census roll-out program started on Monday June 17th, and will end on June 30th. Sir Bob acknowledged that it is not an easy exercise considering the distances they have to walk for hours to reach villages in remote areas of the country to count people, such as for his own village in Kabwum district, Morobe province. He expressed his gratitude for census workers when he was counted at Government House on Friday, June 21st. He was interviewed by Census Ward One Coordinator for Town and Hanuabada, Taunao Lahui and Boio Isaia, witnessed by the Provincial Census Coordinator in the National Capital District Ms Janet Haua and other senior census officers. “The Census is important because we need to know how many people live in our country and where they live." “On behalf of our team, I want to thank you all for carrying out this important exercise and wish you all a very successful and safe census exercise." In response, Ms Haua, who is also the Director for Community and Social Development Directorate of the National Capital District Commission, thanked the Governor-General for being available for the Census and allowing them to carry out their mandated exercise.

The 30th PNG-Australia Ministerial Forum held at APEC Haus in Port Moresby yesterday (Wednesday, June 19th) has underscored the deepening ties and multifaceted cooperation between Papua New Guinea and Australia. Co-chaired by PNG Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko and Australian Foreign Minister Senator Penny Wong, the forum brought together senior ministers from both nations, including their Deputy Prime Ministers. The discussions focused on fortifying the comprehensive strategic and economic partnership, aiming to enhance cooperation across various sectors. Minister Tkatchenko expressed gratitude to the Australian delegation, highlighting the importance of their collaborative efforts. "Our meeting today (Wednesday) focused on pillars of our comprehensive strategic and economic partnership that aim at strengthening our relationship and enhancing cooperation on a number of financial issues of mutual interest to both our countries," he said. The forum's agenda covered key areas such as democracy, security, economic growth, and social development. Emphasizing stability and security, Tkatchenko noted the significance of the bilateral security agreement and ongoing cooperation in policing, justice, defense, and border security. Both Ministers alluded to security and stability being a joint effort, and were central themes at the forum, with both nations reaffirming their commitment to safeguarding their interests and those of the broader Pacific region. "We discussed ways to further strengthen our strategic cooperation for security and stability between our two countries in key strategic areas," Tkatchenko said. This includes the bilateral security agreement, cyber security, and disaster relief, reinforcing the importance of a stable and secure environment for economic growth. Australian Foreign Minister, Senator Penny Wong echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the critical role of security cooperation. "Every Prime Minister also has said publicly, and as has Prime Minister James Marape, a stronger and safer Papua New Guinea is good for PNG." "It is also good for Australia, and it is good for the region," Wong stated. The forum also saw announcements of new initiatives to support PNG's legal and correctional systems, aiming to improve access to justice and enhance security infrastructure. The forum highlighted the mutual benefits of economic collaboration, with a strong focus on boosting trade, investment, and business ties. Tkatchenko welcomed the progress in economic partnership, emphasizing the importance of securing law and order to unlock greater economic potential. "In the areas of economic partnership for prosperity, we welcome the progress to ensure a mutual benefit PNG and Australia economic partnership through our commitment to explore ways to boost economic growth and resilience," he said. A significant outcome was the signing of a joint statement on technical and vocational training (TVET) cooperation, aiming to develop quality human resources in PNG. The current value of the TVET initiative stands at 60 million Australian dollars, with expectations of further growth. Additionally, the forum underscored the importance of the Pacific Employment Visa (PEV), which facilitates labour mobility and contributes to better livelihoods for Papua New Guineans. Reflecting on the historical ties between PNG and Australia, both Tkatchenko and Wong highlighted the enduring friendship and partnership. Wong recalled Prime Minister Marape's historic address to the Australian Parliament, emphasizing the deep-rooted connection between the two nations. "He spoke about us being joined in the hip," Wong said, underscoring the mutual commitment to each other's prosperity and security. The forum also celebrated past milestones, such as Australia's former Prime Minister Edward Gough Whitlam's support for PNG's independence in 1975 and looked forward to building on this legacy. Edward Gough Whitlam was the 21st Prime Minister of Australia, serving from 1972 to 1975. "We see this forum as carrying on those legacies, the legacy of Gough Whitlam, of the Grand Chief (late Sir Michael Somare), of those leaders that you and the company gave in your support and achieved your independence," Wong said. As the forum concluded, both nations reaffirmed their commitment to deepening and expanding their partnership. The discussions and agreements forged at the 30th PNG-Australia Ministerial Forum mark a significant step towards a stable, secure, and prosperous future for both countries and the Pacific region.

The 30th PNG-AUSTRALIA Ministerial Forum today will have dialogues on the two nation's bilateral security agreements, including visa issues. Forum co-chairs, PNG Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong highlighted this when giving their introductory greetings before the actual bilateral meeting this afternoon. Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso, and Minister for Justice and Attorney General, Pila Niningi. In his remarks, Minister Tkatchenko said: "We will look at and assess the bilateral security agreement and how that's progressing for the benefit of our bi-lateral partners as well." In response, Minister Wong said: "Again, I am happy to be here, thank you again for hosting." "And so, you know, this cut-through committee was set up to try and make sure we resolve difficult issues promptly." "Deputy Prime Minister Rosso himself asked us to step into a side room at the Hyatt last year." "Since that time, many of the things we have discussed we've seen the visa issues that you raised there are much improved." "As you (Minister Tkatchenko) said today, we want to focus on continuing those outcomes in our partnership, particularly the bilateral security agreement." "It was really pleasing that the Attorney-General was here yesterday and visited the new training facilities at the Hyatt." "We're doing a lot together and we appreciate the political level commitments that this committee has made. Thank you."

Opposition Leader, Douglas Tomuriesa is confident that the high court will rule in his favor, allowing his Supreme Court case to proceed to substantive issues. Tumuriesa stated this at the courthouse in Waigani on Tuesday, June 18, after his case was further adjourned to Thursday, June 27th. Outside the courtroom, Tomuriesa, accompanied by Deputy Opposition Leader James Nomane, Menyamya MP Solan Loifa, Ijivitari MP David Arore, North Fly MP James Donald, and Middle Fly MP Maso Hewabi, expressed their commitment to the legal battle. He was referring to whether the Supreme Court will find he has legal standing to bring in the Opposition’s application to seek clarification on the rules and processes involved in the vote of no confidence (VONC) motion. Tomuriesa emphasized the importance of the case, stating, "The vote of no-confidence is an important national issue, and it is important that we as leaders from the opposing side take our views to court for the courts to make a decision." “I look forward to next Thursday, and when we return, the courts will likewise make a decision in our favor that I do have standing, and so this case can move forward to substantive issues, substantive matters to be had. And so, yeah, we are glad.” "In past cases, the opposition leaders who have taken the case of violence out of no confidence to the courts, the courts have actually agreed that the opposition leader has got standing," Tomuriesa remarked. The Opposition leader also thanked the public for their support and urged patience and respect for the judicial process. “I want to thank the deputy opposition leader, the members of the opposition, the members of parliament from the opposition who have attended this case to give our support to our legal counsel. And I want to thank Young and William Lawyers, our legal counsel, for representing us this morning (Tuesday).” Tomuriesa further called for calm as the case progresses, highlighting their determination to hold the government accountable and address what they view as ‘poor leadership’. “I want to appeal to the people of Papua New Guinea that the case is still at its early stages, and I appeal to you all to stay calm, remain calm.” “We are law-abiding people, citizens of this country, and I would like to see this case come to a quick settlement so that we can, so parliament can be recalled and have this agenda dealt with and an issue can be made on the floor of parliament.” The application was first heard on Thursday, June 13th by Justice Derek Hartshorn, who adjourned the case to Tuesday, June 18th, with directions for the Speaker of Parliament, Job Pomat, and the Attorney-General, Pila Niningi, who is the Justice Minister, to file their applications to join the proceedings as ‘interveners’. Counsel on recording for the Opposition Leader, Philip Tabuchi from Young and William’s Lawyers, spoke with PNG HAUSBUNG after those directions were made, describing the short hearing as the court dealing with ‘procedural matters’. “Yeah, so because the speaker and the attorney general are going to be interested, or we've named them as interested parties, the court has directed that they file and serve their applications to intervene in the case by this Friday (June 14th), and then those applications will come back to court for hearing next week, Tuesday (June 18th).” “That's just basic standard procedural methods that the court has turned its mind to in this case.” “They're not automatic parties, so they have to file to justify why they should be joined to the case. That's why they have to file those applications.” Tabuchi explained, while Sina-Sina-Yongumugl MP Kerenga Kua, who had attended, stood nearby. On Tuesday, June 18th, the applications to intervene were heard by Justice Hartshorn, and granted after counsels for both the Speaker and the Attorney-General justified to the court the reasons why they be allowed to join as interested parties. In an affidavit, the Speaker deposed to the circumstances surrounding the motion and his role, as he, as Parliament Speaker, is responsible for conducting the proceedings in Parliament. He stated that in light of the legal request for the Supreme Court to interpret the rules and processes of the VONC motion sought in the applicant’s reliefs, it relates to the conduct and processes involving the Private Business Committee, of which he is the Chairman. As for the Attorney-General, his legal counsel on record, Dane Mel, referred to the A-G’s affidavit, in which he stated that he as the A-G is the principal legal advisor to the National Executive Council, thus he has a direct interest to intervene due to the interpretation of the subject matter and its relevant laws. Satisfied that they both have a substantive interest in joining, Justice Hartshorn granted their applications as interveners with no objections from the Opposition’s lawyer. Subsequently, consented directional orders now are for all parties to file extracts of their submissions on whether or not the Opposition Leader has the legal standing to raise such an application for interpretation from the Supreme Court. If successful, the substantive matter will then be set down for a hearing, and as Opposition Leader Tomuriesa is hopeful, it can result in parliament recalled to deal with the VONC issue once and for all. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for Papua New Guinea's governance and the future of its leadership, as the Opposition’s challenge is a potential reshaping of the current political landscape.

A significant controversy has erupted over the government’s decision to implement dual voting methods for the upcoming Local Level Government (LLG) President elections. The debate, sparked by North Fly MP James Donald’s vocal opposition, has drawn sharp contrasts between government officials and critics. Mr. Donald, leader of the People’s Reform Party, today (Tuesday, June 18) lambasted the government’s approach, calling it "indecisive and a clear demonstration of poor leadership." His criticism is focused on the decision to allow the Highlands region and Morobe province to elect their LLG presidents through ward councilors, while other provinces will have direct elections by the people. Donald argues that such a dual system undermines the fairness and integrity of the election process. “An election must be free and fair for all members of society and should be uniform to ensure it is fair across the nation. How can one region and one province vote one way, and the rest of the country vote another way?” Donald remarked. He stressed that this disparity highlights the government’s lack of confidence and capability to manage national affairs effectively. However, in defence of the government's decision, Minister for Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs Soroi Eoe last Thursday (June 13) in Port Moresby, publicly provided a detailed explanation during the official presentation of proclamations and LLG gazettes to the PNG Electoral Commission. Minister Eoe emphasized that the law provides for two methods of electing LLG heads: by LLG members in the Assembly or directly by the people. He said the decision to allow dual voting methods was made after careful consideration of past election issues and current law and order situations in certain parts of the country. He said the decision is based on practical realities, elaborating that, “Cabinet, in its wisdom, has approved both methods of electing LLG Heads based on choices made by the respective provincial governments.” He highlighted that those eight provinces, including Hela, SHP, Enga, WHP, Jiwaka, Simbu, EHP, and Morobe, will maintain the current system of electing LLG heads by councilors, while 12 other provinces will have direct elections by the people. The Minister further stated that this will ensure effective election management, agreed in collaboration by the Chief Electoral Commission Mr. Simon Sinai from the PNG Electoral Commission, who was also with the minister during the announcement. The minister further defended the decision by pointing out the practical challenges and varying conditions across different regions. “Considering the current law and order situations in certain parts of the country, this approach allows for flexibility and ensures that elections can be conducted effectively and safely,” Eoe stated. Despite the controversy, preparations for the 2024 LLG elections are well underway. As confirmed by Minister Eoe, the tentative dates for the election process are set, with the issue of writs on 25th July, nominations closing on 1st August, and polling starting on 24th August. The government has also committed to ensuring that all necessary resources are available to conduct successful elections. The dual voting system has stirred mixed reactions from the public and political figures. The situation is further complicated in West New Britain, where current LLG presidents claim to be in the dark about whether their seats will be decided by popular vote directly by the people or by ward councilors. East Nakanai LLG President, M. James Laula has called on Governor Sasindran Muthuvel for clarity, while Deputy Governor Joe Naipu has taken his concerns to the top – by appealing to Prime Minister James Marape and his Cabinet to defer the LLG elections to 2027, citing slow progress in updating the LLG Common Rolls and insufficient funding. "People without names in the common roll book cannot vote," Naipu warned, highlighting a critical issue that could exclude many voters. The confusion about which provinces will use which election method can be cleared because Minister Eoe had explicitly explained on Thursday last week that, “NEC has approved eight (8 provinces to maintain the current system or method, which is electing LLG Heads by elected councilors in the LLG Assembly.” “The 8 provinces are Hela, SHP, Enga, WHP, Jiwaka, Simbu, EHP and Morobe Province.” “NEC has also approved for a determination to be made by the Governor General under Section 234(2) of the Organic Law on National and Local-level Government Elections for 12 other provinces to elect their LLG Heads directly by the people.” “The 12 provinces for direct election by people are Madang, East Sepik Province, West Sepik Province, Northern, Alotau, Central, Gulf, Western, Manus, New Ireland, West New Britain, East New Britain.” Meantime, Minister Eoe also confirmed a total of 6, 831 Wards, and 372 LLGs are expected to go for election in the 2024 LLG Election. He said this is an increase of in the total numbers by 456 new wards and 41 new LLGs, from the existing 6,375 Wards, and 331 LLGs, further stating that “there may be little change because there are still few submissions going through the process of proclamation.”

Amid political tensions between the Marape-Rosso government and the Alternative Government, and the country kick-starting the 2024 National Census roll-out program, today’s public holiday, officially gazetted, is to commemorate King Charles III’s official birthday. King Charles has carried on the tradition of Trooping the Colour, which dates back to 1748. As a result, he does indeed mark two birthdays – the official one, which traditionally takes place on June 16th, and his actual date of birth, on November 14. On June 9th, 2023, Chief Secretary to Government, Ivan Pomaleu, had announced the clarification of dates, advising that the National Executive Council had revoked the declared public holiday for 12th June 2023 and endorsed the 16th of June 2023 as the day to observe the official King’s Birthday. Since June 16th fell on a Sunday, yesterday, today, Monday, June 17th has been declared a public holiday to mark the King’s official birthday. In a statement last year, Chief Secretary Pomaleu had stated: “…the NEC made the decision to correct the confusion surrounding the date." "This announcement concludes a long and protracted wait on Buckingham Palace to confirm the official birthday for King Charles III.” “The Palace confirmed two days ago (June 7th, 2023) that the official birthday for King Charles III is the 17th of June 2023.” “All public holidays, including the Queen’s Birthday holiday for 2023, were approved on the 1st of September 2022." "The Queen died on 08 September 2022, and we were initially not able to secure a confirmation on the Kings birthday until now.” This year, the British Monarchy announced that the commonwealth countries can take and celebrate the King’s birthday on June 10th, 2024, however, advised that countries can choose to celebrate on another day besides the set date, but are required to write to the King’s royal house to seek clarification and approval to celebrate the King’s Birthday on their chosen date. According to the Governor-General for the Commonwealth of PNG, Sir Bob Dadae, with virtue of the powers conferred to him with the Advice of the National Executive Council, has declared that Monday, June 17th, 2024 (today) will be a public holiday for the country to witness the King’s Birthday. Meantime, the GG Sir Bob Dadae has conveyed on behalf of the nation, his congratulatory message to King Charles III, on the occasion of the King’s official birthday this long weekend. In his message to the King, Sir Bob said, commemorating the King’s Birthday reminds us of the long and enduring relationship Papua New Guinea has had with the Monarchy, and our place in the Commonwealth of Nations. "The commemoration of this event reminds us of the long and enduring relations with the Royal Family, and our valued affiliation in the Commonwealth of nations." "On this occasion, we once again reaffirm our commitment to our place as a realm in the Commonwealth, and our loyalty to Your Majesty, our King and Head of State." The Governor General also conveyed well wishes of good health and recovery to the King following the King’s recent cancer diagnosis, as well as to Her Royal Highness Catherine, Princess of Wales who was also diagnosed with cancer.

A man has been arrested and charged with incest under Section 223 of the Criminal Code Act, (amended Act 27 of 2002), according to Central Provincial Police Commander, Senior Inspector Joseph Salle. The Central Police apprehended the suspect following a formal report lodged by the victim’s mother. The incident occurred on April 2nd and May 18th, 2024, between 10pm and 11pm at Amau village in the Abau District, Central Province. The 13-year-old victim revealed to her mother that she was allegedly sexually assaulted and penetrated by her uncle, her mother's brother, on ten separate occasions across Amau and Sapoa villages. PPC Salle praised the swift actions of his officers in apprehending the suspect and urged the community to report similar crimes to the police. He emphasized that incest is a serious crime under Papua New Guinea (PNG) law and commended the bravery of the victim in coming forward. “I take this opportunity to praise the courageous victim who reported the incident." "I also appeal to the people to report such unethical and immoral activities to the police.” “Having sexual intercourse with your blood relative is a crime, according to the PNG Law.” “Those perpetrators who take advantage of vulnerable people like disabled women and children must be reported and punished through our justice system”, PPC Salle said.