With excitement building, the KCK Rigo Rice Cup Challenge is officially set to kick off on November 1st, 2024, immediately following the close of registration on October 30th. Organizers report that the response from teams and supporters has been immense, sparking anticipation across Port Moresby. "We are thrilled by the overwhelming response to our recent post about the KCK Rigo Rice Cup Challenge and would like to provide further details to clarify some points—our competition officially kicks off on November 1st," an official social post reads, inviting fans and teams to stay tuned as preparations ramp up. The competition will be hosted across four main venues: Northwest games at Ipi Park, Hohola; Northeast at Bomana Police College Field; South Side at Bava Park; and Motu Koita matches at Kone Field. For the first time, 20 tertiary teams from Port Moresby have been invited, though their venue is still being finalized, with an update expected soon. Organizers have planned a phased tournament structure. According to their socials, "The Northwest, Northeast, and Tertiary divisions will commence immediately after registration closes, followed by the Motu Koita and South Side divisions." This scheduling, they added, “will allow ample time to complete all matches efficiently.” The top three teams from each of the five divisions will secure a place in the grand finals, as the stakes are high, with prizes up for grabs: K10,000 for first place, K5,000 for second, and K3,000 for third. The final match showdown will take place at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium, with all finals matches live streamed on social media, thanks to Rebel Media Productions Limited. Youth engagement is a major focus of the event, as organizers encourage teams to include players aged 16 to 23, creating opportunities for emerging talent. Each team can include a maximum of three current or former Digicel Cup players to balance experienced and upcoming players. "We’re proud to be sponsored by our platinum sponsors, Rigo Rice Limited and Kendekali Lawyers." "We encourage teams to field youth players between the ages of 16 and 23, as this will increase their chances of being scouted for opportunities abroad." "Each team may include a maximum of three Digicel Cup players (former or current), ensuring a platform for emerging talent to shine." An awareness campaign led by local rugby star Ase Boas is set to begin on Monday, October 28th, leading up to the tournament’s start. For those interested, organizers have set up convenient registration points and contacts, noting that teams that have registered should pick up their player registration forms at their office. For more details, reach out via Facebook or WhatsApp at 71561688, or visit their office at Copy Tek Place, Gordon’s in Port Moresby.

Police in the National Capital District have launched an ongoing “Drunk Patrol Operation” targeting public drunkenness and unauthorized alcohol sales in Port Moresby. Rising violence, fueled by alcohol abuse and public disregard for laws, has prompted the initiative. Acting NCD Metropolitan Superintendent Mazuc Rubiang confirmed the operation began on Friday, October 26th, and will continue through the end of next year, aiming to make residential streets and public areas safer. Speaking to NCD officers before deployment, the acting city police chief, Rubiang reminded his officers of the importance of maintaining police visibility in public spaces. "The city is facing a lot of law-and-order problems, so the operation should start early.” He noted that crime in the nation's capital is becoming a concern for both residents and the international community, adding that officers are working to “bring back the trust of the people of this country.” Supt. Rubiang further emphasized the collective responsibility for safety, urging the public to cooperate with police efforts and obey the law. “It’s not good that such a situation can affect our main city,” he said. He further stated that Port Moresby is a gateway for Papua New Guinea. “Our people living here have to be safe—your people, your family are doing shopping, going to market, and the kids are attending schools here." "Criminals don’t have a place here." "We will fight for the betterment of our people.” The operation comes under the code-named “Operation Harim Tok,” and is targeting public intoxication, unauthorized alcohol consumption, and sales in illegal locations. Rubiang explained that officers are conducting stop-and-search patrols, checking vehicles, and apprehending individuals selling or consuming alcohol unlawfully. Police will also arrest anyone deemed a threat to public safety or suspected of planning a criminal act. Chief Inspector Tobby Hamago, the Operation Commander, echoed Rubiang’s call for unity and discipline within the police force, urging officers to follow instructions closely to maintain team cohesion and improve safety. He said Friday’s patrol marked just the beginning of ongoing efforts and wants cooperation from all members to turn up next Friday, November 1st, and the following Friday until the end of 2025 to see a positive result in that Drunk Patrol operation. Rubiang further highlighted the need for cooperation from residents, saying that police alone cannot restore the safe Port Moresby of the past. “The police cannot bring back all the good and safe Port Moresby that used to be in the past - it will be a collective effort from all the people living in the city and those traveling into the city.”

Rabaul MP Dr. Allan Marat has called on district officers to responsibly manage the new fleet of government assets he recently presented to the Rabaul District Administration. Marat stressed that the vehicles and boats should be used for their intended purposes to serve the district’s needs. “These are government assets given to us, and we must use them wisely." "Public servants have been tagged with different names over the years for not looking after public properties - we have to change this trend.” Dr. Marat donated three new vehicles and two 23-foot outboard motors to support district operations and community programs in East New Britain. The vehicles, provided under the District Re-fleeting Program, and the boats, funded through Marat’s Discretionary Funds, were handed over in a dedication ceremony at the District Headquarters in Kurakakaul in Rabaul. The new vehicles include two Toyota Hilux double cabs and an additional pickup that was previously used for the Member’s Office. These vehicles are allocated for use by the District Treasury, Electoral Office, and Lands & Commerce sectors to improve operational efficiency and ease logistics for district services. The outboard motors were gifted to the Korere 1 United Church Youth Ministry and the Lion of Judah Ministry. Marat hopes that the youth groups will utilize the boats for both outreach programs and fishing activities. “I encourage the youths to use the boat in fishing activities to improve their economic well-being,” he said. Rabaul’s Acting District Administrator, Freddy Lemeki, expressed gratitude for Marat’s support, noting the new fleet will ease the burden on sectors that previously shared limited resources and will reduce reliance on vehicle hire. “This will help cut down costs and improve how we deliver services," Lemeki said. The dedication of the new district fleet took place on Monday, October 21st, with Marat and his District Development Authority Board members in attendance

Hubert Namani, President of the PNG Law Society, has issued a statement and urgently called on the government to mobilize the Defence Force to assist in curbing escalating violence and lawlessness across the nation, with particular concern for Enga Province and East New Britain. “The escalating lawlessness and violence in Enga Province, as well as other hotspots across the country, has reached an unprecedented and dangerous level,” Namani stated. He urged the government to exercise its powers under Section 204 of the Constitution to initiate a Defence Force call-out, saying that “immediate and decisive action is necessary to restore order, protect lives, and safeguard our communities.” Namani highlighted the disturbing surge in violent incidents, noting that graphic images of violence circulating on social media have revealed a “brutal reality” that threatens to destabilize the nation if left unchecked. “Recent senseless killings in Enga and the surge of violence in once-peaceful regions like East New Britain are shocking us to the core,” he said. He emphasized the need for rapid intervention to prevent the country from “plunging deeper into chaos.” Pointing to a critical breakdown in law and order, Namani warned that “we are standing on the brink of anarchy,” and that the situation calls for the full force of the state to prevent further destabilization. He called for military support to work alongside the Police Force to restore peace, saying that the involvement of the Defence Force is crucial in combating rising organized crime and the widespread availability of illegal firearms. Alongside the call for military intervention, Namani appealed to all citizens to respect the rule of law. “No one is above the law, and every individual must be held accountable for their actions.” He further urged the government to prioritize the removal of illegal firearms, which he described as a primary driver of the violence sweeping through the nation. He warned, “If we do not act now, we risk losing control of our streets, our communities, and ultimately, our nation.” He called on leaders to take decisive steps to “protect the people, restore order, and uphold the rule of law before it is too late."

Papua New Guinea League (PNGRL) needs a Manager of National Schools and Youth Competitions, a critical role as the country continues to pursue a successful bid to enter the prestigious NRL competition. This newly created position is central to the growth and future of rugby league in the country, according to PNGRL. The Manager will be responsible for overseeing and supporting Junior School Competitions in five key locations across the country, developing pathways for young talent and ensuring the sport’s long-term success. As PNG aims to strengthen its rugby league program, this role is vital to creating opportunities for the next generation of players. Developing a solid foundation through school and youth programs is essential in building competitive teams that can one day represent PNG on the international stage, including potentially in the NRL. PNGRL wants develop PNG’s rugby league ambitions by nurturing young athletes and promoting grassroots development. The growth of rugby league in PNG is a priority, and a key focus is developing pathways through school and youth competitions.

Hiri-Koiari MP, Keith Iduhu, has strongly criticized Prime Minister James Marape’s assurances that Hiri-Koiari land is safe, following revelations about the Caution Bay land deal facilitated by the government. Iduhu claims that Marape’s government has been at the center of questionable land transactions, including the controversial seizure of land in Caution Bay. “Hiri-Koiari land and Central Province land is not safe under this government,” Iduhu said. He criticized the government's silence on his previous questions concerning the land deal, stating, “They stay quiet using their silence and privilege as a shield to protect themselves.” Iduhu condemned the government's decision to allocate land to foreign company Pacific Energy Consulting and its subsidiary, Caution Bay Industrial Park Limited, for a luxury resort project. He argued that local companies, such as Laba Holdings or GR PNGLNG Plant Ltd, which represent local landowners, should have been considered instead. “If the government actually wanted to support local interests, they should have given this land to entities that represent the landowners of the surrounding areas of the PNGLNG site.” The MP further criticized the lack of transparency and accountability in the deal, highlighting the government's failure to advertise the land to the public or defend their actions. "The fact that no one in government wants to come out and defend this generous land allocation just shows the extent of lack of accountability for their actions," he stated. Iduhu questioned the true intentions of the Marape-Rosso government, suggesting they are more focused on securing their personal interests rather than serving the nation. He warned that when more information comes to light, it will expose the corruption surrounding the Caution Bay deal. Iduhu reaffirmed that Hiri-Koiari and Central Province lands are not safe under the current leadership, saying, “No, Honourable Prime Minister, our lands in Hiri-Koiari, Central Province, and the rest of Papua New Guinea, are NOT safe.”

In a press conference held yesterday, Thursday, October 24th, in Port Moresby, Neville Choi, President of the PNG Media Council and co-chair of the Community Coalition Against Corruption (CCAC), emphasized the need for media responsibility in reporting violence. Choi emphasised that people must stop normalising the disturbing images of brutality circulating on social media. "Echoing the views and the sentiments of the CCAC, the fact that these gruesome images are shared speaks to the desensitization of our people to such acts. We should not consider these acts normal.” Choi highlighted the media's crucial role in deterring violence through the dissemination of factual and timely information. “One of the challenges our media sector faces is ensuring that we provide this factual information.” He called for greater transparency in governmental processes related to violence, stressing that effective leadership at all levels is essential. “This call for transparency comes from the Coalition,” Choi said. He recognized the difficulties faced by those working on the ground in response to such violence, emphasizing the collective responsibility to address these issues. He urged the importance of accountability and proactive media engagement in fostering a safer and more informed society.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) will explore independent solutions to address climate change and protect its people, no longer waiting for unfulfilled promises from the global community. Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko announced this after attending the Commonwealth Ministerial Meeting on Small States (CMMSS) in Samoa, stating that if necessary, PNG will cut down its forests to sustain its economy. "If we must cut down our forests to sustain ourselves and develop our economy, so be it. We are taking control of our destiny," said Tkatchenko. PNG, along with other small island nations, has grown frustrated with the lack of meaningful support from larger countries. Despite contributing very little to global emissions, these nations suffer the most from climate impacts like rising sea levels, floods, and droughts. Minister Tkatchenko stressed that Papua New Guinea is one of the third (3rd) biggest rain forest nations of the world, serving as the major lungs of the world that cleans the carbon dioxide that major greenhouse gas emitters (countries) produce, thus is an integral global lifeline in saving the world and the planet from disaster. Minister Tkatchenko called out the hypocrisy of major polluters who have failed to provide the crucial funds needed to help smaller nations. "The pledges made by major polluters amount to nothing more than empty talk. They impose impossible barriers for us to access the crucial funds we need to protect our people,” he said. As a result, PNG has decided to boycott the upcoming COP29 climate summit in protest. In explaining PNG’s withdrawal from COP29, the Minister was unequivocal: “We need action, not more talk." "The last three COP meetings have gone around in circles, producing no tangible results for small island states. COP29 will be no different, so PNG will not participate at the political level recognising the lack of respect for forest nations in the big carbon sink until some progress becomes evident to address the plight of PNG and other small states." Minister Tkatchenko emphasized that this decision reflects the struggles faced by all small island nations, many of whom have seen little action from years of high-level climate discussions. “The international community has shown a total lack of respect for countries like ours that play a crucial role in mitigating climate change." "We are tired of being sidelined," Tkatchenko stated. PNG’s absence from COP29 sends a clear message that forest nations and small island states deserve more than lip service—they need real, tangible action to address the climate crisis.

Acting National Capital District Metropolitan Superintendent Mazuc Rubiang has issued a strong warning to the public about the consequences of defamation on social media. He emphasized that there are laws in place to arrest and charge those who commit such offences, urging everyone to be respectful online and offline. “We must respect each other when we are online or offline." "We are all different and we react to things differently. It is better to mind your own business than talking about others who are minding their own business,” Rubiang stated. This statement followed the arrest of 51-year-old Samson Komati from Hagen Central in the Western Highlands province. Komati was charged with two counts of defamatory publication under the Cybercrime Code Act 2016 after he posted defamatory content about Police Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr. According to police investigators, it was alleged that on September 13, 2024, Komati used social media platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook to publish defamatory materials that caused discontent against the Police Minister. On Tuesday, October 22, 2024, Komati was contacted by the police and asked to present himself at Boroko Police Station. He complied and arrived at the station the next day (Wednesday, October 23rd), where the police explained the allegations against him. Superintendent Rubiang confirmed that Komati was formally charged, informed of his constitutional rights, and detained in the police cells. He also clarified that Komati remains innocent until proven guilty and will have his chance to defend himself in court once his documents are prepared.

The Central Provincial Government has given K200, 000 to the Fresh Produce Development Agency (FPDA) to help local farmers transition from subsistence farming to commercial farming. This payment is part of a larger commitment under a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed in July 2024 to support agricultural development in the province. Central Province Governor Rufina Peter handed over the cheque to FPDA and highlighted the importance of the funding in transforming agriculture in the province. “This is such an important project because we are piloting the Market for Village Farmers program in Vanapa Brown,” Governor Peter said. This initiative is aimed at helping local farmers improve their production and sell more in markets, moving away from farming just to feed their families. The total commitment from the Central Provincial Government over the next four years is K1 million, and this first payment marks the beginning of a larger effort. “We allocated K1 million. Yes, we did. So, this is the first K200, 000 that’s going out for the work to be done,” Peter explained. The goal is to help farmers develop the skills to run profitable farming businesses. Peter stressed that this project is about transitioning farmers from a subsistence lifestyle to a more commercial approach. "It's such an important project, especially from the food crops sub-sector, and I'm grateful for this partnership," she said. The pilot program will provide valuable lessons to expand the initiative to other parts of Central Province. Governor Peter also emphasized the need for discipline and commitment from the farmers involved in the program. “We don’t want to start with farmers who are not in this business. They must already have some discipline of doing production to markets,” she said, pointing out the importance of targeting farmers who are already experienced in farming. Mark Worinu, CEO of FPDA, praised Governor Peter and the Central Provincial Government for their commitment. “I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Madam Governor for honoring the commitment. Despite the three months after the signing of the commitment, three months is very short, and so I want to thank you for that,” Worinu said. He explained that FPDA will be working closely with the provincial government to ensure the success of the project. The plan includes conducting a scoping study to assess the current farming conditions and identify opportunities for improvement. The results of this study will help shape the future activities of the project. Worinu also highlighted the importance of supporting young agricultural graduates who will play a key role in the project. “In projects like this, we will create those incentives, and they can create pathways for themselves to become future leaders,” he said. Worinu stressed that young people must see agriculture as a viable career option and that projects like this will give them the motivation and opportunity to succeed. The Central Provincial Government and FPDA are committed to working together to improve the livelihoods of farmers in the province. The project aims to modernize agriculture in Central Province and help farmers move from subsistence farming to becoming successful commercial farmers. With this funding and collaboration, the future looks promising for agriculture in Central Province. The K200, 000 payment is only the beginning of a larger vision to transform farming and improve the economy for local farmers.

Central Province Governor, Rufina Peter, has expressed strong concerns over the acquisition of 280 hectares of land at Caution Bay. She supports the statements made by Hiri-Koiari MP Keith Iduhu, and the former Prime Minister Peter O'Neil, regarding the lack of transparency and proper processes in the land deal, involving Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Lands, John Rosso. Governor Peter highlighted that this is not the first instance of land grabbing against the people of Central Province. She previously raised concerns in July 2024 over a questionable transfer of land at Ilimo Farm, known as Portion 1221. Investigations revealed that over 300 hectares of Central Provincial Government land were transferred to a foreign-owned entity under suspicious circumstances. Peter assured the people of Central Province that the transfer of Portion 1221 would soon be addressed in court. She promised transparency and action, stating, "The people of Central Province will be advised in due course as to the issues surrounding Portion 1221 and related Portions." The Governor emphasized that the Central Provincial Government will not allow outsiders to exploit their land without proper procedures. She added, "We will not permit the pillaging of land within our borders...without due process and respect for our rights, where infringed on." Peter vowed to work closely with MP Iduhu to investigate the Caution Bay land deal and ensure the rights of Central Province residents are protected. She expressed concern about foreign corporations benefiting from such questionable deals and stressed the need for accountability and transparency. “We simply cannot continue to be spectators in our own country watching large foreign corporations benefit from dubious deals, without the right to demand answers and accountability where circumstances warrant." "We demand accountability, transparency, and respect for the rights of our people.” Governor Peter reaffirmed her commitment to safeguarding the land rights of Central Province and called for justice for the people.

Leader of the Opposition, Douglas Tomuriesa, has urged Police Commissioner David Manning to reassess the effectiveness of interventions in Enga Province, particularly after a recent bus attack that killed multiple people. Tomuriesa pointed out that the three K3 million armoured vehicles purchased for the 2022 elections remain unused in Mt Hagen. He condemned the ongoing lawlessness, calling the incident “sickening and devastating.” “Payback killings, tribal disputes, and sporadic attacks have unfortunately become the norm in Enga,” he said, criticizing Prime Minister James Marape’s silence. Tomuriesa expressed frustration that lawlessness persists a year after supposed government interventions. “The reality does not match the rhetoric,” he said, accusing Marape of handling the situation without seriousness. He also criticized Marape’s priorities, saying, “When it comes to negotiations for Porgera, he's more than happy to fly around the world... but when it comes to women and children being killed, he doesn't seem to care one bit.”