The Papua New Guinea (PNG) National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a weather forecast for major towns and cities, including Port Moresby, Lae, Mt. Hagen, and other centers for the next 24 hours. The forecast highlights varying conditions across the country, from sunny skies to thunderstorms. In Port Moresby, expect partly sunny skies with possible evening showers and moderate southeast winds. Lae will experience cloudy weather, likely accompanied by afternoon rain showers and thunderstorms. Mt. Hagen will clear from morning fog but may see afternoon rain showers. Kokopo and Rabaul can expect a sunny start, turning partly cloudy by evening. Weather conditions across other provincial towns such as Daru, Kerema, and Alotau indicate rain showers and thunderstorms, while regions like Madang and Vanimo may remain partly cloudy, with occasional evening showers. In Buka, a sunny day transitioning to partly cloudy skies is expected. In the highlands, towns like Goroka and Tari will begin with morning fog, followed by scattered showers and potential thunderstorms in the afternoon. The southern region will see isolated showers and thunderstorms, while the Momase and New Guinea Islands regions will experience scattered rain showers and thunderstorms. The forecast warns that severe thunderstorms could bring gusty or squally winds. The National Weather Service urges travelers and residents to stay updated on weather conditions, especially those in regions prone to severe thunderstorms. For detailed weather information, citizens can refer to the PNG National Weather Service website or contact their regional weather offices.

Four of the six parties involved in the Porgera Mining Project Community Development Agreement (CDA) initialled the draft CDA on October 9th in Port Moresby. This follows six months of negotiations. The signatories included the Special Mining Lease landowners, the Porgera Urban Local Level Government, the Porgera Rural Local Level Government, and the State. New Porgera Limited and the Enga Provincial Government did not attend the ceremony, but the State said it is confident of reaching a consensus with them soon. The draft CDA will undergo government vetting, focusing on fiscal, monetary, and legal terms before being presented to the National Executive Council for endorsement. Major clauses in the draft CDA which the Department of Treasury will look at are the equity and royalty break-ups between SML landowners, non SML landowners and the EPG. Under the Porgera Project Commencement Agreement (PPCA) which was signed between Barrick, SML landowners, EPG and the State, the equity break-up is as follows: SML landowners 5% EPG 2.5% Non SML 2.5%, Mineral Resources Enga (MRE) 5%. This adds up to 15 % equity out of the total 51 % owned by PNG parties. The balance of 36 percent is owned by Kumul Minerals Holdings Limited (KMHL) on behalf of the State. In terms of royalties, the PPCA provides for a total of 3 percent royalty of which, 2 percent goes to the SML landowners, 1 (one) percent to EPG and the other 1(one) percent to others (non SML, riverine, Mining Lease, Lease for Mining Purposes). The SML landowners have however, proposed their own break-up of equity and royalties, and a plan on their business development aspirations. These proposals will be attached with the draft CDA to the NEC for decision making. CDA is a benefit sharing agreement whereby the National government shares benefits from mining projects with the host Provincial Government Local Level Governments and Landowners as required by law

The Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) for Border Divisional Command, Perou N’dranou, has stressed the importance of getting the basics of policing right during his visit to the East Sepik Provincial Police Headquarters on October 9th. This was ACP N’dranou's first quarterly visit since his appointment in August. In his address to the police officers, ACP N’dranou stated that the concept of Basic Policing is not new; it is a system that has always been part of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) but has been neglected over time. “We have created our own rules while ignoring the basic policing foundation,” he said. He explained that establishing a solid foundation for basic policing starts with simple practices. “To get the foundation of basic policing right starts with simple things like looking presentable in uniforms, being punctual, closing all reported cases each day, and having good work ethics,” he added. ACP N’dranou mentioned that it is his responsibility to supervise, monitor, and evaluate the provinces under his command to ensure that the policing foundation of the RPNGC is functioning effectively. He believes this is the only way to maintain the rule of law as expected by the public. The provinces under Border Command include East Sepik, West Sepik, and Western Province. Western Province has two Police Commands: The North Fly and South Fly Police Commands, reflecting the geographical challenges of the area. During his address, ACP N’dranou reminded younger officers that the Police Force is a disciplined organization, and there is no room for officers who do not adhere to police culture. He challenged the young officers to meet the dressing standards set by senior officers after inspecting the parade. He acknowledged that police officers often face tough situations that may tempt them to stray from the system. However, he emphasized that this is what defines a police officer. “Every police officer swore an oath to serve this country and should always be reminded that this policing system is in place to distinguish a police officer from an ordinary citizen,” he stated. “When you wear that uniform, wear it with pride and remember that you are a leader,” ACP N’dranou encouraged. “A leader does not complain but provides solutions to problems.” “I am not here to micromanage or do anyone’s role but to encourage each and every member to get the basics of policing correct; only then can the rule of law be effectively established.”

Papua New Guinea faced a challenging defeat against New Caledonia, losing 3-1 in the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Oceania qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Thursday, October 10th. PNG showcased their fighting spirit in a match that highlighted both their strengths and areas for improvement. The match began with New Caledonia taking control early on, scoring two goals in the first half that left PNG struggling to find their footing. The PNG team, set up in a 4-5-1 formation, found it hard to contain the attacking prowess of New Caledonia's forwards, particularly Gope-Fenepej and Zeoula, who exploited gaps in PNG's defense. However, Papua New Guinea did not back down. After a tough first half, the team regrouped and came out with renewed determination. They created several chances in the second half and managed to find the net with a well-deserved goal. This moment ignited hope among the players and fans alike, demonstrating PNG's resilience and ability to respond under pressure. Despite their efforts, New Caledonia quickly extinguished any thoughts of a comeback by scoring again shortly after PNG's goal. The defeat served as a reminder of the challenges that come with international competition, but it also provided valuable experience for the squad. Looking ahead, PNG’s coach, Frank Vega Arango, will need to address the team's defensive organization and ensure they capitalize on scoring opportunities. The upcoming fixtures are crucial for PNG as they aim to keep their World Cup hopes alive. Their next match will be against Fiji on November 17, where they will need to put this loss behind them and focus on securing a victory.

A 22-year-old man from Oro Province has been sentenced yesterday, Thursday, October 10th, to 20 years imprisonment for growing cannabis sativa or marijuana. The prisoner, Sobert Pandawa, from Sorovoi Road 7 along the Gona Highway in Oro Province was found guilty for cultivating canabis after standing trial on October 7th before Senior Court Magistrate Albert Daniel based on circumstantial evidence provided by police witnesses. Pandawa, was also fined K500, 000. His conviction comes after police discovered cannabis plants hidden among garden flowers while pursuing murder suspects on August 11th. Pandawa was found at the scene, questioned, and later arrested for cultivating cannabis sativa. The court decision has received praise from Northern (Oro) Governor Gary Juffa, calling it a victory for the law-abiding citizens of Oro Province who often suffer due to illegal activities. He stated that the maximum sentence should send a strong message across the province, assuring citizens that law enforcement and the judiciary are committed to fighting against illegal drug cultivation. Juffa emphasized the need for continued vigilance against drug-related crimes. Meantime, Oro Provincial Administrator, Mr. Trevor Magei has commended the Oro Provincial Police Command for their successful conviction of two young adults, who received a total of 30 years for various drug-related offenses. He noted that today’s conviction removes one cannabis grower from the streets, which ultimately protects over 100 youths and children from the dangers of cannabis sativa addiction. Magei expressed strong support for the police and judicial system in their ongoing fight against dangerous drugs like cannabis, methamphetamine, and cocaine, which are classified under the Dangerous Drugs Act of 2018. He assured Oro’s Provincial Police Commander, Ewai Segi, of full backing in efforts to combat drug abuse, further stating that he is very impressed with the outcome of the case against Pandawa. He said the conviction of Pandawa should serve as a clear warning to young adults in Oro. By successfully convicting individuals involved in cannabis cultivation, law enforcement aims to tackle the root of the drug abuse problem in society. Magei stressed that the courts and all law enforcement agencies are prepared to collaborate and use all available resources to reduce the impact of drug-related issues. Magei also thanked the Special Operations Team (SOT) from McGregor for their crucial role in leading the case against Pandawa, highlighting their commitment to special operations in Oro since April of this year.

West New Britain (WNB) Governor, Sasindran Muthuvel has raised serious concerns about funding shortages hurting many provinces in Papua New Guinea (PNG), including his. He is worried that the delays in receiving funds from the National Government may be due to the fact that he and his province are in the Opposition. "The WNB Provincial Government has only received 30 percent of its appropriated funding per the 2024 national budget so far.” He pointed out that the last funding received was five months ago in April, which has led to major issues for the province. "Since then, there has been an obvious absence of further funding, raising serious concerns about how essential services such as education, health, agriculture, law and order, and village courts can continue to function." The budget for West New Britain (WNB) was set at K42 million for 2024, but so far, the province has only received K13 million. The health services in WNB have also been impacted with the WNB Provincial Health Authority (PHA) receiving only 40 percent of its funding. The last funding issued in May totalling K10,187,924 out of the K24,864,300 budgeted for the year. "Without the release of the remaining funds, many essential services and projects throughout the province will suffer," Governor Muthuvel said. He noted that the delayed funds are vital for various services, including the Administration Grant, public servants' leave fares, and education function grants. These funds are needed to provide basic services as recommended by the National Economic and Fiscal Commission (NEFC). The governor warned, "The worrying situation is our hospital has dramatically scaled down services, only prioritising emergency services and essential services. Any further funding delays will no doubt lead to an increase in disease, loss of lives, and other medical emergencies." Governor Muthuvel also pointed out that none of the Public Investment Program (PIP) budget appropriations for WNB have been released, which include important projects like the Kimbe to Kandrian Road and the New Britain Highway. "We have come to a situation where our prison is low on food rations, our hospital is scaling down services, and our province cannot cope with our costs,” he said. With the November Parliament budget session approaching, the governor is worried that if these funds remain unreleased, WNB may face even more challenges next year. "My call is simple: release our funds and be fair with the people’s money," he urged. He emphasized that Prime Minister James Marape is the one who decides how funds are distributed. "I have been told numerous times by bureaucratic leaders that it is the PM who makes the call on where funds should go. So, it begs the question why certain provinces and districts are suffering; is it because we are in Opposition?” “I simply ask for what is rightly appropriated to be given to our people.”

The National Court has dismissed a case brought by former prisoner, David Pokarup, who claimed that he was unlawfully detained for more than three years after his due date for release. Pokarup (plaintiff) had filed a human rights case against the Commissioner of the Correctional Service and the State (defendants), seeking damages for his alleged unlawful detention from March 21st, 2020, to December 28th, 2023. Pokarup argued that his continued detention violated sections 37, 41, and 42 of the Papua New Guinea Constitution, which cover the right to full protection under the law, protection from unjust acts, and the right to liberty, against the alleged continuous period of detention from 21st March 2020 to 28th December 2023. By way of background, Pokarup was originally sentenced in 2007 to eight years in prison for armed robbery. While serving his sentence, he escaped from custody at some point, which delayed his release date. In 2016, a court ruled that his due date for release should be March 21st, 2020, accounting for the time he was at large after his escape. However, Pokarup was still in custody after his supposed release date in 2020. He later filed multiple legal actions to clarify his release date, and in a 2023 case, it was determined that he had been unlawfully detained past his due date. Despite this, the court in the present case could not establish whether Pokarup had been continuously detained from March 2020 to December 2023, leading to the dismissal of his claim for damages. The uncertainty stemmed from conflicting evidence about whether Pokarup had escaped again in 2016, an issue he did not address in this case, which ultimately weakened his claims. The defendants, however, argued that the case should be thrown out, stating there was a lack of proper evidence and that the claim was an abuse of the court process. The State’s lawyer, Ms. Kajoka, argued that the case was similar to two previous ones Pokarup had filed, both of which dealt with his due date of release. These earlier cases, however, did not include claims for damages, which was the focus of this recent case. Despite the similarities, the court ruled that there was no abuse of process and allowed the case to continue. However, the case was eventually dismissed because Pokarup failed to provide enough evidence to prove that he was unlawfully detained for the entire three years as he claimed. Justice David Cannings said, "I am not satisfied that the plaintiff has proven on the balance of probabilities that he was detained continuously in the period from 21st March 2020 to the date of his release, 28th December 2023." The judge explained that Pokarup did not address key issues raised in a previous case, including allegations of a second prison escape in 2016 and being at large for a period of time, which raised doubts about his detention claim. "The plaintiff should have expressly addressed it in this case, but he hasn’t," Justice Cannings noted. As a result, the court found no proper factual basis for Pokarup's claims, leading to the dismissal of the case. Both parties will bear their own legal costs.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape extends his warm congratulations to the government and people of Fiji as they celebrate their 54th Independence anniversary today. “On behalf of the government and the people of Papua New Guinea, I convey our heartiest commendations to Fiji for 54 years of democracy and congratulate them on their Independence anniversary, which is being celebrated this Thursday, 10 October 2024," Prime Minister Marape said. “Fiji gained Independence in 1970, and we acknowledge the role early Fijian leadership played in contributing to our own self-determination," the Prime Minister explained. “Fiji’s five-year nationhood earlier to PNG and its near-century experience of living under British administration gave latitude to our Founding Father, Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, to call on the counsel of first prime minister, Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, in our journey to Independence and beyond." "Sir Michael looked up to Sir Kamisese the way a younger brother looks to an older one, prompted by the fact that there existed a 16-year age gap between the two leaders." "At the time of PNG’s Independence in 1975, Sir Michael was 39 and Ratu Mara was 55." “Ratu Mara was instrumental in the inspiration that Sir Michael drew from to also carve out his own country for Independence. This demonstrates the bond established by both our countries even at birth." “To this day, Fiji continues to nurture this bond with Papua New Guinea, and vice versa, through our diplomatic government-to-government ties, in business, and in the relationships our two people continue to share amongst each other." "This is in a true spirit of Melanesian brotherhood we call ‘family.’" “On this special occasion, I offer our congratulations to Prime Minister Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka; the Government; and all the beautiful People of the Republic of Fiji." “Papua New Guinea commits to stand by Fiji and looks forward to continuing this wonderful partnership into the future as we strive to build a better, stronger and more resilient Blue Pacific Continent."

Papua New Guinea’s Basketball Federation (BFPNG) is excited to host the "Her World, Her Rules" (#HWHR) campaign this Saturday, celebrating the UN International Day of Girls. This campaign is usually celebrated annually on October 11th; however, this vibrant event will be held on October 12th, in Port Moresby at the Taurama Aquatic Indoor Centre from 9 am to 1 pm. The #HWHR campaign, backed by EuroLeague Women and the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), focuses on empowering young girls through basketball on and off the court, by providing advice and funding for several actions taking place as part of its global strategy. According to BFPNG's Female Engagement & Content Lead Program Quality, Ms. De’Lisha Koime, "This campaign aims to unite women and girls through basketball, and help define grass-root projects, especially targeting schoolgirls aged between 7 and 17." This year’s campaign promises an energetic atmosphere, packed with activities to grow the sport at the grassroots level. It’s a chance for girls across PNG to learn, connect, and be inspired. National Federations worldwide are also part of this project, ensuring its reach and impact are global. "If you're a basketball fan or a supporter of girls' empowerment, this is an event not to miss! Bring your energy and join in making it a slam dunk for girls in sport." "We would be honoured to have you join us for this exciting event," BFPNG said in a social media post.

Bulolo MP Sam Basil Jnr, in his capacity as Parliamentary Leader of the United Labour Party (ULP) and Shadow Minister for Transport, Civil Aviation, and Correctional Service, has raised concerns over a new Bill aimed at amending the Essential Services Act. The Bill, introduced by the Minister for State Owned Enterprises (SOEs), seeks to prevent disruptions to essential services such as water, electricity, and transportation. However, Basil argues that the Bill undermines the Ministry and Department of Labour and Employment, which are responsible for managing industrial relations in the public sector. Basil acknowledges the importance of improving service delivery but believes the Bill misplaces the blame on workers. "Whilst the Bill is looking at improving services and continuity, it may be seen as a blame for our own inefficiencies," he stated. He pointed to poor leadership and management within SOEs as the root cause of disruptions. “No one is stopping the water, electricity, and airlines or ports, but it is the poor leadership from the organisation and the Boards.” Basil emphasised that even in the absence of strikes or employee confrontations, service disruptions persist. "That should be the crux of the matter—management, direction, and implementation," he said. He warned that the Bill interferes with existing labour laws, including the Public Service Management Act and Industrial Relations Act, which govern how the government interacts with public sector unions. The MP stressed the importance of dialogue between the government and unions in maintaining industrial harmony. “For public servants or public sector organisations, the Government policy on industrial relations requires that regular dialogue is to be maintained with the major unions in the public sector," Basil said. He further explained that both the Ministry and Department of Labour and Employment play crucial roles in overseeing negotiations between public and private sector unions and their employers. According to Basil, the new Bill jeopardises this process and could strain relationships between the government and unions. “Cordial relations or negotiations with public sector unions are to be conducted in the public interest and within public policy,” he said. He also highlighted that industrial actions, such as strikes, follow a strict legal process under the Industrial Registrar, ensuring they are justified and not taken lightly. Basil, as leader of the ULP, reiterated the party’s mission to protect workers' rights. He expressed concern that the Bill, while intended to address service interruptions, could undermine the work of the Industrial Registrar, the Ministry of Labour, and the Department of Public Service. “The United Labour Party was established with the core objective of protecting the voice of the workers at the political level,” he stated. He called on the Minister for State Owned Enterprises to reconsider the Bill and focus on addressing leadership and management issues within SOEs rather than bypassing the established industrial relations framework. Basil concluded by reminding the government that industrial relations are constitutionally protected and should not be undermined by legislation that could infringe on workers' rights. “The National Constitution provides for industrial relations that prohibits discrimination in employment on the grounds of union membership, race, social origin, colour, gender, marital status, religion, or political opinion, and promotes employment on the basis of merit alone,” he said. He urged the Minister to revise the Bill and respect the role of the Ministry of Labour in maintaining fair industrial relations.

A WaSH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) Planning Workshop is currently underway for Rabaul and Pomio Districts of East New Britain (ENB) province, aiming to tackle water, sanitation, and hygiene issues. Running from October 7th to 10th at the Rabaul Hotel, the workshop is conducted by the Department of National Planning and Monitoring’s WaSH Project Management Unit. National WaSH Coordinator, Takele Tuna, explained that the workshop's purpose is to guide both districts through WaSH planning processes, ensuring alignment with the MTDP IV and setting clear targets to improve WaSH facilities. Both districts recently conducted WaSH Enumerators Training and carried out a baseline survey to collect vital data from schools, health facilities, and communities. This data will inform a comprehensive 5-year WaSH Plan. Tuna stressed the importance of collaboration: “Consultation must involve community leaders and government officials, reflecting a shared commitment to improving WaSH standards.” Acting Rabaul District Administrator, Freddy Lemeki urged the districts to ensure baseline data aligns with national and provincial development plans. "The WaSH Plan must address the specific needs of each district," he said.

East Sepik Governor Allan Bird has raised serious concerns over the K800 million price tag for the new Level 5 Specialist District Hospital to be built in Port Moresby’s Gerehu suburb. The groundbreaking ceremony for the hospital was held on Friday, October 4th, led by NCD Governor Powes Parkop, and attended by Prime Minister James Marape and Health Minister, Elias Kapavore. In a strongly worded statement, Bird questioned why the cost of the Gerehu hospital is so high compared to similar projects in other parts of Papua New Guinea, such as the Boram Level 5 Hospital in Wewak, East Sepik province. Bird, who oversaw the construction of Boram as the hospital board chair, revealed that it cost K210 million to complete, including state-of-the-art medical equipment and reliable infrastructure. “If Vamed, an internationally recognized medical service provider, can build a world-class level 5 facility in Wewak for K210 million, why does the one in Gerehu have to cost K800 million?” Bird asked. “I would think for K800 million, NCD, Central, and Gulf can all have a brand-new Level 5 hospital each." "Someone needs to come clean on these deals.” Bird further disclosed that he was “extremely alarmed” to learn that a consultant has been awarded K64 million just for the design and documentation contract for the proposed hospital. “As a former hospital chair who presided over the design and build of Sir Michael Somare Specialist Hospital Boram, I can say that K800 million is exorbitantly high." "Someone is definitely making a killing on the side,” he stated. The East Sepik Governor highlighted the comparison with Boram Hospital, explaining that it included all necessary equipment, two standby generators, and a 50, 000-liter water tank, as the hospital could not rely on utility companies. He also noted that Vamed provided four years of training for technicians to maintain the new equipment. Bird’s criticism did not stop at the costs. He raised broader concerns about the overall health infrastructure in the National Capital District (NCD) and surrounding areas. While acknowledging that NCD, Gulf, and Central provinces need Level 5 hospitals to alleviate the pressure on Port Moresby General Hospital, he questioned whether the health workforce is ready to staff these facilities. Bird pointed out that his own province, with several newly built hospitals, is still struggling to recruit enough doctors and medical staff due to funding limitations from the Treasury. He warned that the new hospital in Gerehu, projected to require around 400 staff, including 40 doctors, may face similar challenges. “Boram Hospital is still struggling to recruit staff because Treasury can only fund a certain number of positions each year,” Bird said. “Have we got enough doctors? Or do we build the facilities first and worry about the staff later?” In addition to staffing issues, Bird stressed the importance of reliable water and power supplies for hospitals to operate effectively, raising concerns about whether these have been adequately addressed in the planning for the new facility. The Governor also questioned whether the focus on building new, expensive hospitals is the best way to improve healthcare services in the capital. He suggested a more cost-effective approach would be to upgrade existing clinics in Port Moresby and Central Province for K5 million each, which could help reduce the burden on larger hospitals by providing care closer to people’s homes. “Our people need quality health services available close to them,” Bird emphasized. “We need to rethink how we are providing this service and ensure that we are following the National Health Plan.” Concluding his statement, Bird called for an investigation into why the Gerehu hospital’s costs are so much higher than similar facilities elsewhere in the country. “Someone should investigate this situation and tell the country why the same type of hospital can cost K210 million in a remote part of the country and K800 million in the capital,” he urged. Finally, Bird questioned whether the K64 million price tag for design, documentation, and supervision is reasonable, calling on the PNG Institute of Engineers to weigh in on the matter. “We can’t keep doing this to our taxpayers. Someone needs to properly justify how we are using taxpayer money."