Parliament resumes Wednesday May 29th, after only a 10-minute session this afternoon. New Leader of Government Business, the Minister for Internal Security Peter Tsiamalili raised the motion for adjournment with strenuous objection from the Opposition side led by Douglas Tomuriesa alongside defected young Pangu stalwart, Rainbo Paita. The Parliament session opened at 2:40PM after a 40-minute delay. This was followed by a stern tirade from the Speaker of Parliament who blasted Government for not having enough money for parliament needs.

The Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Divisional Commander Northern and Acting Divisional Commander for NCD and Central Province, Peter Guinness has dismissed speculative stories circulating and trending on social media alleging that Defence Minister Dr Billy Joseph had used PNG Defence Force soldiers to intimidate and threaten politicians into joining the Government rank. Addressing reporters at Boroko Police Station, ACP Guinness labelled the claims as false and stressed the importance of providing accurate information during this period of political instability. "These allegations are not true," stated ACP Guinness. "Senior military officials have confirmed that close protection officers (CPOs), who are soldiers, were assigned to escort the Defense Minister due to threats he received prior to the vote-of-no-confidence (VONC) motion." ACP Guinness said the military command have given their assurance that they will recall the CPOs at this time of the Vote of no-confidence (VONC). "Alot of speculative stories are circulating on social media, that is why, it is important for the authorities including the police to give accurate information to the media." "We must give assurance to our people and all other stakeholders, that we are doing everything possible to maintain peace and good order in NCD and Central Province at this time of political uncertainty."

In a candid and impassioned press conference on Monday in Port Moresby, Kandep MP Don Polye, a senior leader in Papua New Guinea's government, laid bare the country's most pressing issues, calling for immediate and coordinated action from all political factions, further clarifying that he has not joined the Opposition camp, as alluded to on social media, amid ongoing political negotiations related to the Vote of No Confidence which is anticipated to a main agenda in this Parliament sitting period after Parliament resumes today (Tuesday, May 28th). “No, I'm not in the Opposition. I'm a PANGU Pati member trying to guide people to follow a PANGU Pati process.” He urged MPs who defected to follow the proper procedures under the Organic Law on the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates (OLIPPAC) and called on Pangu Pati's executives to step in and resolve the internal political conflict. “Yes, I have visited Mr. Rainbo Paita and his faction camp to say there's a party process and we have to follow a party process, I've articulated it, and party executives must take charge.” Polye emphasized that following these legal frameworks is essential for effective governance and addressing the nation's crises, as this current political manoeuvring is only confusing the public. Don Polye's address was a stark reminder of the urgent issues facing Papua New Guinea. His call for immediate, coordinated action and political unity was clear: "We must not let personal or political interests overshadow the needs of our people as the suffering of our citizens is real and must be addressed now." Polye, currently serving as the Minister of Education, Research, Science, Education and Science Research, and Technology, emphasized the dire state of the nation’s educational, economic, and infrastructural sectors. “I speak as a senior leader of this country with this background information as to giving me the experience to say a few things I'll be saying here and I hope that the people of this country and in particular colleague members of Parliament, leaders of this country do take note of the points that I will raise.” “These following issues that affect our people remain very profoundly prominent that cannot escape the attention of leadership.” “Therefore, leadership has the duty to only focus on these areas at a present time to finding a solution to removing the sufferings that people of Papua New Guinea are going through.” Polye highlighted the chronic issues plaguing the education system, including a severe lack of textbooks and inadequate skill development programs. "The human development deficit is acute," he said, "leading to our jobs being taken by outsiders due to our unskilled workforce." Polye stressed that addressing these educational shortcomings is crucial for the nation's future, calling for an overhaul of the system to ensure quality education and skill development. The declining value of the kina, Papua New Guinea's currency, was another major point of concern. Polye warned that the kina could devalue by 20-30% in the medium term, exacerbating the country's economic woes. He connected this economic decline directly to the rising cost of living, which has made it increasingly difficult for citizens to afford basic necessities. “People can't pay the power bills.” “People can't pay other necessary means of survival.” “Mothers are struggling.” “Children are going to school without quality food because the prices have risen and I'm talking from my own family.” Polye did not shy away from addressing the rampant inflation and recent fuel shortages that have crippled the nation. "Inflation is not due to external factors like the Russian war," he asserted. "It is caused by local mismanagement." The shortage of fuel at airports and seaports further compounds the economic strain, disrupting daily life and business operations. Equally alarming was Polye's discussion of the escalating crime rates. He said despite not being a war-torn or drug-infested country, Papua New Guinea is witnessing a surge in violent crime. Polye called for a national reckoning and immediate action to restore law and order. "We cannot normalize murder and violence," he declared. "Our people deserve to live in peace." Polye also shed light on the recent catastrophic landslide in Enga province, which buried thousands alive. He called for urgent assistance to provide food, medical supplies, and machinery to aid in the rescue and recovery efforts. "We need immediate action to help those affected and give the deceased a dignified burial," he urged. But at the heart of Polye's address yesterday was a call for political unity and adherence to systematic processes. He criticized the current disarray within political parties, particularly the Pangu Party, and urged leaders to respect the organic law and party constitutions. As the nation braces for potential political upheaval, Polye's words resonate as a call to action for all leaders to prioritize the welfare of their constituents above all else. Meantime, in response to queries from the media, Polye denied any ambitions for the Prime Minister’s post, focusing instead on providing honest leadership and guidance.

A joint task force of police and defense force personnel is set for operations related to the Vote of No Confidence (VONC). The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) has deployed up to 120 personnel to support the 400 police officers involved in maintaining peace and order starting today (Tuesday, May 28th) when Parliament resumes. Northern Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Peter Guinness, who is the acting Commander of NCD and Central Province division, has assured the public that the police will remain neutral throughout this period. In a press conference along with NCD Metropolitan Superintendent Silva Sika, and the joint task force commander, PNGDF Lieutenant Colonel Velmoore Kagena, ACP Guinness also warned police and military personnel at Boroko Police Station, and also other personnel around the country to allow the political situation be resolved by politicians in Parliament, urging citizens also not to incite unrest. "Ordinary citizens should not use the situation to create unnecessary excitement or anxiety, which may lead to law and order problems." "Police, assisted by PNGDF soldiers will work together throughout the city and Central Province in the lead up to, during and after the VONC is tabled and deliberated on floor of Parliament." ACP Guiness said police will secure all access and entrances leading into the precincts of Parliament in case of a crowd build up or surge, while defence soldiers will assist patrol of the outer perimeters of Parliament from now until the VONC is settled. "While we focus on providing security for parliament, normal day to day police operations will continue." "I am warning all police men and women to refrain from taking sides with anyone or any group." He said there will be no serving police or military personnel providing private escorts to any MP, especially those from other provinces. He warned that if found, that officer will be deported back to the province they came from, and any issued firearm on that officer will be confiscated, and they will be disciplined under their rightful command. "We will monitor all security activities, and police personnel who are found privately aiding or assisting politicians at this time of the VONC will be disarmed and dealt with through the Constabulary's disciplinary process." "We must protect the integrity of the Constabulary." "The tragic events of January 10th are still fresh in the hearts and minds of people, therefore security issues concerning the VONC will not be taken lightly." "We will come down hard on anyone who attempts to cause problems on the streets of Port Moresby at this time of political uncertainty, and will be patrolling major settlement areas so there is no repeat of the looting, burning of buildings etc." He reiterated that the joint force will ensure peace and order across NCD and Central Province, securing Parliament and monitoring activities related to the VONC. Meantime, NCD Met. Supt. Silva Sika said there will be no liquor ban or curfew at this time, unless it is warranted during this period.

East Sepik Governor Allan Bird has publicly declared he has relinquished his nomination as the alternate Prime Minister nominee. This follows local media reports this afternoon that after long continuous meetings between members of the opposition, Opposition Leader Douglas Tomuriesa had announced the nomination of Former Finance Minister and Finschhafen Mp, Rainbo Paita as the Alternate Prime Minister, should they be successful following the vote of no-confidence motion. The Members of the Opposition Caucus are camping at the Sanctuary Hotel. Governor Bird issued a statement tonight confirming this. "As is customary in our politics, the person with the most support receives the nomination." "In this instance, the man of the hour is the Honourable Rainbo Paita," Bird explained. "I left Government because, like many MPs, I don't see any solutions for our challenges from this government." "I left to help fight bad decisions of the government that are affecting our people every day." "So, this wasn't a difficult decision." "We waited for 3 months for our leaders to come and join us." "The majority of our leaders don't like the direction our country is going, but they lack the will to make the change." "We are grateful for the courage shown by this group of leaders led by Hon Paita." His statement went on with him thanking the 18 members of Parliament who gave their support in February this year: Sir Julius Chan, Peter O'Neil, Sir Puka Temu, Kerenga Kua, Belden Namah, Robert Atiyafa, David Arore, Douglas Tomuriesa, Rufina Peter, Simon Sia, James Nomane, Keith Iduhu, Sam Basil, Maso Hewabi, David Morris, William Hagahuno and Johnson Wapunai. "We have been a faithful, hardworking Opposition, but we have fallen short and need the help." "It was a great honour and privilege to be nominated." "I am an Independent MP, and this support was totally unexpected and undeserved, so thank you all so much." "To the Hon Paita and the team, the country needs a change of government, it needs a good government that cares for the people." "Thank you and your team for the courage you all demonstrated by leaving the Marape government." "Our 19 remain committed to changing the Government and bringing relief to our struggling people." "We will not be moved, and we remain committed to this cause." "Many people will say Hon Paita is too young and inexperienced." "Whether that has merit is not for me to say, as I was convinced in 2019 that Marape was the right person to lead the country." "I was wrong." "So, I certainly have no right to judge the Hon Paita." "He is a mandated leader elected by his people." "I respect his mandate given by the people of Finschaffen." "I must respect the number of leaders who support him also." "With that, I want to thank all the people of PNG for your wonderful support and kind wishes to myself and the team over the past 3 months." "I know many of you will be disappointed, but this is a decision based on numbers, I am only one man with 18 MPs in support." "I simply don't have the confidence of enough MPs and I must by convention concede and hand over to those who have the numbers to continue your fight." "I hope you will extend that same support to the Hon Rainbo Paita as he leads us to change the government for the better." "Whatever happens, I want to assure you all that I will remain in Opposition and continue to fight bad decisions of the government until the end of my term."

Bulolo MP Sam Basil Jnr has issued a statement today expressing concern about spin doctors prompting trivial issues while also commending the various MPs who left the Government as patriots who are listening, hearing, and seeing the plight of the people. Mr Basil, an opposition member and first time parliamentarian, said these MPs have made decisions that have now affected their existing positions in government such as Ministers, Vice Ministers, Chairman of Committees and also in their respective political parties. In the statement, Mr Basil said the decisions made comes with risks to their districts and their people, and "we must appreciate the decisions made". “I wish to acknowledge other MPs moving out of the Government and especially those from Morobe that have led the biggest exit with Ministers Rainbo Paita and Kobby Bomareo, and MPs Solan Loifa, Theo Pelgen and Marsh Narawec." “We are mindful of our Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso and Minister Jason Peter, but assure that we must do anything in politics for the greater good for the people of Morobe and PNG." “We acknowledge the sentiments expressed by Governor Luther Wenge that PNG needs to exercise strong leadership traits to raise questions and issues and cause change without fear or favour." “We must move away from the overemphasis of provincial and regional issues and focus on the national interest." "I left the Government that had all Morobe MPs as I needed to make a strong statement to the Prime Minister and other leaders that we need to change course of the way we are addressing social, economic, and political issues." “We had good plans, policies, and statements, but it was not translated to the people on the ground." “We were not making hard decisions to change the status quo such as containing inflation, attracting domestic and foreign investment in our industries, cutting down on huge loans, cutting down on public utility outages and disruptions to communication and transport services, putting more money and investment into agriculture, and improving livelihoods of the people."

Opposition Leader, Douglas Tomuriesa in a statement tonight, has commended a move by a number of Members of Parliament who have defected from the Government over the weekend. Mr Tomuriesa especially commended the leadership displayed by the six Ministers who have put their duty to country first, and the other leaders who have chosen to rise to the occasion and chart a new course for the country. The six ministers who left the Marape-Rosso government are Energy Minister Robert Naguri, Higher Education, Research, Science, Technology and Sports Minister Don Polye, Finance Minister Rainbo Paita, Culture and Tourism Minister Isi Henry Leonard, Mining Minister Muguwa Dilu, and Housing Minister Dr Kobby Bomareo. "In what many have described as an unprecedented move, the decision by a growing number of MPs to leave the comforts of government clearly demonstrates there is a desire for change in our country's leadership." "For the Leader of Government Business (Rainbo Paita) and five other senior ministers to leave the ruling Pangu Party coalition demonstrates that there is a big disconnect between how the Prime Minister manages the country's affairs and the Cabinet." "I want to assure the nation that the Opposition is working with the growing number of leaders leaving government to chart a new course for our nation." "Rest assured that there are leaders who are working diligently to ensure we have an appropriate rescue plan to save this nation." Mr Tomuriesa said the sentiment in the country in recent times has shown that there is much to be desired in Prime Minister James Marape's leadership, and that change is required to reset the current turmoil. "To my fellow leaders who may still be deciding on their next course of action, I urge you all to reflect on the current state of affairs and decide if this is how our founding fathers envisioned our nation." "We must listen to our people and make the tough decisions for the betterment of this nation." Meantime, Prime Minister James Marape is still confident he has enough support to keep stable the current government. While wishing those who departed from government the best, he said in a statement that he respected their decision but described them as "excess fat" that had to be "trimmed off" from government for a "leaner" and "coherent" administration.

The United States of America has assured PNG of its support towards emergency and rescue efforts in the Porgera District of Enga Province, following the massive landslide that has claimed close to 200 people so far. Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko has welcomed this support and commitment by the United States government, following an official statement from US President John Biden who expressed his heartfelt condolences for the huge death losses. The devastating landslide occurred around 3am on Friday, May 24th, destroyed up to a hundred houses and homes, burying people under stones and rubble in Mulitaka village, about 40 km from Porgera Gold Mine. Enga Provincial Administrator, Sandis Tsaka says a Disaster Response team was dispatched to the site on Friday to conduct a rapid emergency assessment. The reported death toll was as of midday Friday, but it is anticipated that this could rise as the search and rescue continues. The tragic disaster comes days after the Mining Minister, State parties, landowners and stakeholders of the gold mine project launched the Community Development Agreement (CDA) process for negotiations, which will run for two to three weeks in Wabag. As families and communities of the impacted villages devastated by the landslip struggle with their loss in the Maip Mulitaka area, President Biden says he has directed his Administration to stay in close touch with its Papua New Guinean partners as they lead rescue and recovery efforts "at this dark hour". President Joe Biden in a statement reads: "We stand ready to assist." "Jill and I are heartbroken by the loss of life and devastation caused by the landslide in Papua New Guinea." "Our prayers are with all the families impacted by this tragedy and all the first responders who are putting themselves in harm's way to help their fellow citizens.' US Ambassador, Her Excellency (H.E) Marie Yastishock, in a personal message on behalf of the US, expressed deepest and heartfelt condolences to the people of Enga and all of Papua New Guinea on the tragic landslides. "Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you and all the victims affected by this tragedy." In response, Foreign Affairs Minister Tkatchenko expressed great gratitude and appreciation to President Biden, H.E Yastishock and the US Embassy, and the people of the United States for the words of heartfelt support, and commitment to action, for the affected villages. "We appreciate the US for its role as a world leader, in its support for others in the face of the varied global challenges, but we appreciate even more it's concern and commitment in our time of need - in our corner of the world." Minister Tkatchenko added that the Foreign Affairs Department will continue to assist coordination between the Papua New Guinea National Disaster Centre (NDC), IOM, and the US Embassy to ensure an efficient and effective assistance effort for the affected areas and people in Enga Province. President Biden in his statement stated that the US will continue to coordinate with Papua New Guinea, Australia and New Zealand, and it's Quad partners to ensure the US is meeting its commitment to partner in delivering humanitarian assistance and disaster relief across the Indo-Pacific. "The United States stands with Papua New Guinea- our close partner and friend-today and always." H.E Yastishock also affirmed that the US are in close coordination with the NDC and the Department of Defense and will respond if requested.

Bogia Open MP and Minister for Energy, Robert Naguri, joined the National Coalition Camp this morning (Sunday, May 26th). This latest exodus makes the 6th State Minister leaving the Marape-Rosso Government, indicating a show of no confidence in the leadership of Prime Minister (PM) James Marape, who has likened these defectors as trimming ‘fat’ off the government. Wosera-Gawi MP Joseph Yopiyopi and Goilala MP Casmiro Aiya also made their commitment to change the government by joining the Sanctuary Camp as of this morning. With the pulling out of the three MPs, the Marape Camp currently has 38 MPs. This number may likely decrease in the coming days as the resumption of Parliament looms near, but Prime Minister Marape remains unperturbed, calling it a ‘blessing in disguise’. Finschhafen MP Rainbo Paita made the announcement this morning (Sunday, May 26th) after the three MPs joined like-minded leaders camping at Sanctuary Hotel this morning. The 18 renegade Pangu Pati Members are out of 59 led by Minister for Finance & Implementation, Rainbo Paita physically moved to join the opposition last night to overthrow Prime Minister James Marape and the Pangu-led Coalition Government in the lead-up to the Vote of No Confidence heats up. "The National Coalition Camp is growing in numbers, and it is for the Country and the people,” said Paita. But Prime Minister Marape is confident of his chances to hold onto the government, pointing out that, "As others have moved, I received calls from 41 Pangu MPs, and all our coalition party leaders and members, indicating their support.”

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has described the departure of 18 MPs, including five ministers, from the Pangu Pati camp on Saturday night, as a ‘blessing in disguise’. He likened them to ‘excess fat in government’ that needs to be ‘trimmed’. Social media has been on fire since last night over the defection, as the lead-up to the Vote of No Confidence (VONC), which is anticipated to happen after Parliament resumes on Tuesday, May 28th. Police also have been given operational orders towards the VONC, as the country waits to see if a change in government will take place. The PM, however, has issued a statement saying he respects their decision to leave, highlighting his confidence in maintaining the status quo, and again, prepared to prove the hard yards the government has achieved since he took office in 2019. “A few hours ago, I received news that 18 MPs, including five ministers, have left Government to join up with the Opposition.” “In some ways, this is a blessing in disguise for me that some of the excess fat in government is trimmed so that we can have a lean and coherent government.” “I thank those who were part of my government and appreciate their support for me until their departure on their own accord and I wish them well.” “This is a play for a vote of no confidence, and I know they are joining the opposition that has Allan Bird as their nominee.” “I wish them well to assemble an alternative team and policy series that hopefully can do better for PNG than my Pangu and coalition team.” “I want to ask all Papua New Guineans to respect leaders as they make their choices and ply their trade.” “Leaders are elected by their people, and they have their rights to associate with leaders of like mind.” “As others have moved, I received calls from 41 Pangu MPs, and all our coalition party leaders and members, indicating their support.” Prime Minister Marape noted that Pangu had increased its numbers from 39 seats won in the 2022 National General Election to 59. “I was extremely privileged that 97 MPs voted for me to be prime minister again in August 2022.” “Since then, we have always had a very big government with many different interests.” “On Thursday, May 30th, 2024, I will compare statistics on the economy, education, health, infrastructure, and law and justice sectors so the nation can know what we have done in the last five hard years.” “If someone who can do the job better than me ascends, then I shall be content.” “May God’s will be done for our country, and I ask all our people to treat all leaders kindly as they process their thoughts on national leadership and national interests.”

The country’s newest police officers, who graduated on Friday, May 24th, from the National Centre of Excellence, formerly known as the Bomana Police Training College, in the National Capital District, have been urged to remain disciplined, committed, and loyal in their law enforcement duties. Internal Security Minister Peter Tsiamalili Junior, the guest of honor at their passing out parade, emphasized this message to the 217 police graduates, 26 of whom are female, in the presence of Police Commissioner David Manning, heads of various law and justice agencies, diplomatic missions, and the graduates' families and friends. “I want to challenge and encourage you young men and women passing out today,” Minister Tsiamalili said. “You will be immersed in different parts of our country facing various challenges and temptations (so) always remember your pledge today—to remain disciplined, committed, and loyal to the uniform you wear.” The 217 recruits completed nine months of rigorous training, an extension from the previous six months, covering physical, spiritual, and mental challenges. “You could almost correlate those nine months to a newborn child,” Tsiamalili noted. “When you walk through that gate at Bomana, you come as an ordinary citizen (but) after nine months, you pass out as a solid officer of the state of Papua New Guinea.” Reflecting on the significance of the police force in the nation's identity, Tsiamalili stated, “In 1975, our forefathers envisioned a sovereign nation, and the police force was the identity that differentiated us as an independent state of Papua New Guinea.” He stressed the importance of ongoing supervision and mentorship for the new officers. “Supervisors, mentors, and respective commanders play a pivotal role in ensuring that what has been taught in training is applied and put into practice.” “The divisions receiving the graduates must ensure they are properly supervised and monitored.” Addressing the graduates directly, Tsiamalili urged them to maintain focus and integrity. “The temptation to conform to past practices is not the way to go,” he warned. “The people of Papua New Guinea deserve to be served by professional police who pride themselves on integrity and honesty.” Tsiamalili also expressed gratitude to the support staff, communities, and families of the graduates. "To all the grounds men that keep these grounds impeccable, and I want to thank the kitchen head, the staff in the kitchen that wake up every day to prepare the meals, three or six meals a day for these young men and women, and I want to also thank the communities that continue to support the young men and women who reside in the precinct." “Finally, on behalf of the police ministry, and I stand here also as the regional member for Bougainville, my family and I congratulate, not just the cadets, but all your families, and your mothers and fathers.” “We all should be proud of this very auspicious, and very significant moment in the history of our police force in the passing out of our 217 cadets in the year 2024.” “Congratulations once again, and may God continue to bless each and every one of you as you embark on your commitment to serve this beautiful country.”

The first intake of the Police Recruits 2023 will pass out today (Friday, May 24, 2024) from the National Centre of Excellence, formerly known as the Bomana Police Training College, just outside the city of Port Moresby. The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) anticipates the presence of Prime Minister James Marape today to present awards at the pass-out parade ceremony for the first intake of 223 police recruits. Police recruitment in Papua New Guinea has been an ongoing initiative the Government of Papua New Guinea has put in place since 2022. The main purpose of PNG police recruitment is to increase the police force in the country. The Marape-Rosso government has supported recruitment efforts by the RPNGC to increase police numbers to 10, 000 personnel by the end of the decade, and has been focusing also on upgrading and improving police infrastructures such as police stations, and housing, and boosting logistics support. RPNGC has taken the responsibility to recruit new officers every year, with the next crop of recruits to enter into training in June. Today’s graduation of recruits concludes their nine-month training program before they are posted to police commands around the country. Officer Cadets will attend the parade today before they commence professional placement and leadership training in Australia in the coming days. The pass-out parade is expected to take place at 2 pm today.