The Chief Justice of Papua New Guinea has been referred again, this time by the Ombudsman Commission to the National Executive Council (NEC) and the prime minister has come out to give his assurance to the nation that the State will tread very carefully with this matter.Prime Minister James Marape in a statement released today, assured the nation that the Government will approach the Ombudsman Commission’s referral involving Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika with the utmost care, diligence, and full respect for the Constitution and the independence of the Judiciary. The Prime Minister’s comments follow the Ombudsman Commission’s announcement on Monday, 11 May, that it had invoked its reserve powers under Section 29(2) of the Constitution and Section 27(3) of the Organic Law on the Duties and Responsibilities of Leadership to refer the Chief Justice to the National Executive Council (NEC) for consideration of the appointment of a Leadership Tribunal. Prime Minister Marape said the Government fully respects the constitutional mandates of both the Ombudsman Commission and the Public Prosecutor. “The Ombudsman Commission and the Public Prosecutor are independent constitutional offices, and their work must be respected,” Prime Minister Marape said. “This is not a light matter. The Office of the Chief Justice is one of the highest constitutional offices in our country, equal in standing to the Office of the Prime Minister and the Office of the Speaker as heads of the three arms of government.” Prime Minister Marape also confirmed that the Office of the Prime Minister, in the presence of the Chief Secretary, had formally received the referral documents from the Ombudsman Commission. Following this, the Government would now seek detailed legal advice from the State Solicitor and other relevant authorities before determining the next steps. Marape said the Government would carefully examine whether the NEC had the constitutional standing and authority to proceed with such a matter involving the Chief Justice under Section 179 of the Constitution. “As Prime Minister, I will not rush this process or make premature conclusions,” he said. “The Chief Justice remains at work and this matter must be handled fairly, respectfully, and with due care because the integrity of our constitutional institutions and the reputation of our country are involved.” The prime minister also urged the public to avoid unnecessary speculation and commentary while proper legal processes were underway.

The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) has officially announced its final 23-man squad for the PNG U-19 Men’s National Team ahead of the upcoming OFC U-19 Men’s Championship – Qualifying Stage, set to take place in the Cook Islands from June 6th to 12th, 2026.Head coach Mathew Witu confirmed the squad following several weeks of preparation and assessment, with selected players now set to represent PNG in their bid to secure qualification to the main championship in Samoa later this year. PNG will open its qualifying campaign against Tonga on June 6th, before facing hosts nation, Cook Islands on June 12th. Only one qualification spot is available from the tournament, with the group winner advancing to the final championship stage in Samoa in September. Coach Witu said the squad reflects strong preparation and commitment shown throughout the camp. “We have selected a balanced squad that has shown commitment, discipline, and determination throughout camp.” “The players understand the importance of this opportunity and are eager to represent Papua New Guinea with pride.” PNG U-19 Men’s Final Squad (23 Players) Defenders: Bomecge Basananuc, Charles David, Christopher Eugene, Thomas Niebo, Jaru Eron, Raphael Kamake Midfielders: Ruel Api, Leightan Enoch, Harold Bill, Henry Bill, John Millis, Polos Muip, Albhan Rani, Benjamin Kila, Peter Yagum Strikers: Nalau Moses, Benjamin Bee, David Tita, Boas Tommy, Harrison Ima Goalkeepers: Ricky Hulana, Luther Rodney, Wayne Java The OFC U-19 Men’s Championship Qualifying Stage is regarded as a key development pathway for young footballers across Oceania, offering valuable international experience and exposure. The PNGFA extended congratulations to all selected players and wished the team success as they prepare to fly the national flag in the Cook Islands.

The Rabaul District in East New Britain Province is one of the first districts in the province apart from Pomio district and in the country to roll out the PacFresH20, a project aimed at protecting fresh water and increasing resilience.The official country launch of the PacFreH2O project was held on Monday, May 11, 2026, at the Somare Memorial Park in Rabaul, witnessed by the Minister of the Department of National Planning and Monitoring (DNPM) and his delegation, the Provincial Member, Rabaul MP and his DDA Board members and project implementing partners such as Water Aid, GIZ and others. When giving the keynote address, the Minister for the Department of National Planning and Monitoring, Sir Ano Pala, said that this is a German funded project, a 20 million Euros (PGK104 million) trilateral cooperation between Germany, PNG and Solomon Islands. He explained that the PacFresH2O project will be rolled out between 2026 and 2031 to selected high risk communities, schools, health facilities and markets with the following approach. 1.    Climate- resilient water supply systems will be rehabilitated and installed. 2.    Improved sanitation and hygiene facilities. 3.    Climate and hydrological monitoring stations will be installed to work together with the National Weather Service. 4.    Conservation initiatives. 5.    Establishment of District Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WaSH) Committees and 6.    Alternate livelihood opportunities. Minister Pala said that as a disaster-prone province and district, we have to be prepared and respond accordingly when disaster strikes. He also announced that Rabaul is the first district in PNG to receive a fully DNPM-funded WaSH project of this scale, with priority for the people of Matupit who have endured for decades living in the shadow of a live volcano with inadequate access to clean and safe water. This will also complement the PacFresH2O project. Also present to witness the launch was the member for Rabaul Dr. Allan Marat, who expressed his gratitude towards the Minster for National Planning & Monitoring, implementing agencies and the German Government, for identifying and selecting Rabaul District to pilot this important project. “Germany and Rabaul have a long history since the colonial days of German- New Guinea and we are privileged to renew those ties again with this vital water resilience project,” Dr. Marat said. He said such projects will empower communities to be resilient and improve family’s livelihood and also encouraged the district to take ownership of the project. Meanwhile, Rabaul District Administrator Freddy Lemeki, commended all partners for their efforts in successfully launching the PacFresH2O program and added that this will also complement the recently launched District WaSH 5 Year Development Plan.

The ongoing implementation of the Child Nutrition and Social Protection (CNSP) project in the Gazelle District of East New Britain has captured the interest of the newly appointed United Nations Resident Coordinator in Papua New Guinea, Ms. Shalini Bahuguna.During her recent visit to the province to assess the destruction caused by Cyclone Maila, Ms. Bahuguna travelled to Napapar Ward Four, one of the sixty-eight wards actively implementing the CNSP initiative. A handful of mothers and Village Health Assistance (VHA) were present to share first-hand information on the status of CNSP implementation on pregnant mothers and children between the ages of 0-5 years. The project is in its third year of operation, an initiative of the government and supported by the World Bank and DFAT, aimed at reducing child stunting and malnutrition. Addressing the mothers and the VHA at the ward chamber hall, Ms Bahuguna said that the United Nations was keen to have more information on CNSP rollout since its line agency UNICEF was a leading technical advisor on this project. “I am trying to fully understand how things have been in the last three years of implementation and further find out if the project is having an impact on the mothers and children.” “With high numbers of stunting or children under weight, the concept of having trained VHC, is a great approach, allowing for those concerned to be monitored daily in respective wards.” “I want to commend you all and further encourage everyone to continue doing this.” According to the Gazelle District Health Coordinator, Vunais Leba, a handful of referrals have been made by the VHA to the nearest health centres. “We have now seen the CNSP project achieving results with a lot of nutrition issues addressed by VHAs, allowing health staff in health centres to be focused in other areas of health deliveries.” “People are now doing a lot of back yard gardening and are cooking a balanced meal.” Meanwhile, 136 VHAs were in the four Local Level Governments (LLGs) in the Gazelle District, addressing malnutrition, identifying underweight children for referral and exercising health advocacy.

The Constitutional and Law Reform Commission (CLRC) recently achieved a significant milestone by completing an intensive two-week custom recording exercise in Jiwaka Province.Conducted under the Underlying Law Act 2000 and the CLRC Act 2004, this initiative strengthens the Commission’s mandate to develop and monitor Papua New Guinea’s Underlying Law. Throughout the exercise, the CLRC documented the customs of the Kuma, Eknii, and Narak language groups, covering the North Waghi, South Waghi, and Jimi Districts. Facilitated by the Jiwaka Provincial Administration, the consultations engaged village elders, magistrates, and local leaders to ensure an authoritative record of traditional practices. The recording followed a comprehensive questionnaire framework addressing leadership structures, family relations, land ownership, and dispute resolution, while additional cultural research, including a visit to the Koskala Cultural Site, provided deeper insight into regional artifacts. Jiwaka is the second province to undergo this process following a successful pilot in Central Province. The CLRC is now refining the gathered data into a legally structured report for parliamentary presentation. Once declared, these customs will be recognized by the courts to help determine cases and progressively develop a "home-grown" legal system. CLRC Secretary Dr. Mange Matui emphasized that this national program directly supports the Fifth National Goal and Directive Principle, Papua New Guinean Ways, ensuring the country’s legal framework genuinely reflects the traditions and aspirations of its people. 

The National Government has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding access to quality higher and technical education across Papua New Guinea following the ground-breaking ceremony for the proposed Sandaun Technical College and Teachers College at Poro, Aitape, in West Sepik (Sandaun) Province recently.Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science, Technology and Sports, and Acting Minister for Education, Kinoka Feo, stated that the proposed institution would play an important role in empowering young people through education, skills training and human capital development. “The establishment of this institution will create opportunities for our young people to access higher education locally, reduce barriers caused by geography and infrastructure, and contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic growth of Sandaun Province and Papua New Guinea.” Also, in attendance, were Sandaun Governor Tony Wouwou, Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture and Member for Vanimo-Green, Belden Namah, Member for Aitape-Lumi, Anderson Mise, Sandaun Provincial Administrator Jacob Areman, and Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology Secretary, Lonnie Baki, along with other distinguished guests. Minister Feo acknowledged the partnership between the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) and the Sandaun Provincial Government through the signing of a Memorandum of Partnership to support the delivery of higher education services in the province. He said the project aligns with a 2019 National Executive Council decision directing the establishment of Technical Colleges in Sandaun and 11 other provinces nationwide. The proposed institution is expected to deliver training in key priority areas including Construction, Agriculture, Tourism and Hospitality, and Teacher Training, using national training packages to ensure standardised and quality skills development. To support the initial implementation phase, Minister Feo announced a K1 million funding commitment from his Ministry. “The Marape-Rosso Government remains committed to ensuring that no province is left behind in accessing quality higher education and technical training opportunities.” He also thanked the people of Sandaun Province, provincial leaders and stakeholders for their cooperation and continued support toward establishing the institution.

A recent Financial Literacy Training conducted at the Bisini Lawn Bowls club in Port Moresby city, facilitated by the Centre for Excellence in Financial Inclusion (CEFI) in partnership with the Department for Community Development and Religion, has proved helpful for the participants.One particular participant, who is a retired Football player who had a lustrous playing career in his prime days, was also part of this empowerment of life skills training. Mr. Roland Bala is a PNG International Football representative player, who played for various teams in the National Soccer League, a semi-professional competition. He was part of the PNG Football Men’s team that played in the 2016 OFC Nations Cup and also had a stint with Southern United FC in the New Zealand Premiership Football League. When PNG HAUSBUNG interviewed him, he said he was pleased to be part of such an opportunity to acquire such a skill, especially during a time where the country is faced with economic problems and many Papua New Guinean households are struggling financially. “In this financial literacy training, we learnt about budgeting and savings. So, what I learnt from this training is all about our everyday habit of using our hard-earned money through unwise spending and not saving the little we have. And this is a mindset changing experiencing for me, especially to do with saving,” said Mr. Bala. He adds that this training has also helped him to understand how to be financially sound and avoid unhealthy financial habits. He said, someone who has not received this kind of training or is not familiar about financial literacy, will definitely have problems financially. For him, this training has empowered him to be wiser with his spending, and look into opportunities like starting a small business. As a retired athlete, he sees life as a struggle, especially when one who has not completed the formal education process but turns to concentrate more on sports as another means to sustain your life. He says athletes who are in the semi-professional competitions earning money; they must save the little they receive. He also urges the sportsmen and women to reach out to people and others for such opportunities to get them prepared for life after sports. “So many of our athletes earning salaries, they just spend, spend and spend. My advice to them is limit on your expenses and try to save your money. You can start small with at least a much smaller amount. Try putting that little away and forget about it. You’ll be surprised at how much you will save once your time in sports is up," said Mr. Bala.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Vanuatu have further strengthened ties following bilateral talks on the margins of the Melanesian Ocean Summit 2026 in Port Moresby city this week.Prime Minister James Marape reaffirmed PNG’s strong and enduring relationship with Vanuatu following bilateral discussions held with Vanuatu Prime Minister Jotham Napat. Marape said the meeting reflected the deep historical, cultural, and political ties shared between Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu as fellow Melanesian and Pacific nations. “We are working to promote unity and the safe and sustainable use of our oceans, and the Ocean Summit has provided an important opportunity for Pacific leaders to come together not only for the conference, but also to strengthen bilateral relationships,” Prime Minister Marape said. The Prime Minister said Papua New Guinea valued Vanuatu’s longstanding friendship and support on regional matters of mutual interest. “Vanuatu is extraordinarily special to Papua New Guinea. We stood with Vanuatu during its independence in 1980, and we look forward to continuing to work together as we have in the past, today, and into the future,” he said. Prime Minister Marape said both countries had agreed to further strengthen diplomatic engagement, including arrangements for reciprocal diplomatic missions. “They have graciously provided space for Papua New Guinea to establish a High Commission in Vanuatu, and likewise we have indicated our willingness to provide space for Vanuatu to establish its High Commission here in Port Moresby,” he said. He also said PNG and Vanuatu shared many common priorities as Melanesian and Pacific neighbours, particularly in the areas of climate change advocacy, ocean conservation, and regional solidarity. “As two Melanesian brothers and Pacific brothers, we share many commonalities. I commend Vanuatu for always standing with Papua New Guinea on matters of shared interest in Melanesia and across the Pacific,” he said. The Prime Minister emphasised the importance of Pacific unity in addressing global challenges affecting island nations. “Collectively, our voice is stronger. On our own, we may face resistance. Together, we can jointly advocate on critical issues such as ocean conservation and climate change,” Prime Minister Marape said. He added that Pacific nations must continue standing together amid increasing geopolitical competition and external pressures.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has come out to strongly reject what he has described as misleading allegations suggesting the use of public funds for election purposes next year. These allegations were from the East Sepik Governor Allan Bird who suggested that the existence of “slush funds” under the Office of the Prime Minister and the Government funding allocations, are being used to influence the 2027 National General Election. Prime Minister Marape described the comments as irresponsible, misleading, and damaging to public confidence in the country’s lawful budgetary and governance processes. “The people of Papua New Guinea deserve facts, not politically driven narratives designed to create suspicion and division,” PM Marape said. “All budget appropriations passed by Parliament are done through transparent legal processes under the national budget framework and are subject to scrutiny by Parliament, Treasury, the Department of Finance, Auditor-General, and relevant oversight agencies.” Marape said it was incorrect and misleading to describe contingency funds, government obligations, district maintenance allocations, or development appropriations as “slush funds” controlled personally by the Prime Minister. “These are lawful appropriations passed by Parliament to enable Government operations, national obligations, emergency responses, development programmes, and service delivery,” he said. “No Prime Minister can wake up and spend public money outside the legal budget process. Every allocation has a purpose, a process, and an accountable pathway.” Prime Minister Marape went on to explain that PNG’s budgeting system involved all Members of Parliament and Government agencies through formal parliamentary approval processes. “The same Members of Parliament Governor Bird refers to are elected leaders representing the people of this country,” he said. “The national budget is debated openly in Parliament before being passed. It is not hidden from the public.” The PM further clarified that the allocations Governor Bird referred to fall under Treasury Department budget items such as Item 207, including miscellaneous expenditure and Secretary’s Advance appropriations, which are longstanding provisions contained in national budgets under successive governments. “These appropriations are managed under established Treasury and public finance procedures. The Prime Minister has no personal discretion or unilateral authority over how these funds are applied or disbursed,” he said. “The Budget Management Committee (BMC) process also regulates and oversees all spending to ensure compliance with approved government financial procedures and accountability mechanisms.” “These budget items existed under previous governments, exist under the current government, and will continue under future governments as part of normal state financial operations.” Marape said it was therefore wrong and misleading to portray lawful Treasury appropriations as personal political funds controlled by the Prime Minister.

The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) received two new helicopters today to support air operations as the police force works towards improving its capacity to deter crime and promote public safety.Australia, through the Australian Federal Police, today formally gifted the two helicopters to the RPNGC, significantly strengthening police operational capability and mobility across Papua New Guinea. The helicopters will provide the RPNGC with a critical aviation capability to support frontline policing operations, particularly in remote and rugged terrain where road access is limited or non-existent. The aircraft will enhance police response, community safety, disaster response, and national security outcomes. The gifting demonstrates the depth of Australia’s commitment to Papua New Guinea’s security and stability, reinforced by the two countries' shared Bilateral Security Agreement. The PNG–Australia Policing Partnership is a central pillar of our bilateral relationship. Australia is proud to support the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary to rebuild and modernise its capabilities in line with local priorities. This support is made possible under our Bilateral Security Agreement, which allows Australia and PNG to work more closely than ever to address shared security challenges. The two helicopters are Bell 412 aircraft, previously operated in Papua New Guinea and refurbished to an excellent standard following comprehensive audits and inspections. They are proven, multi‑purpose helicopters capable of transporting personnel and equipment and can be utilised for future operational requirements including disaster response and medical evacuation support. The gifting of these helicopters, underscores Australia’s enduring partnership with Papua New Guinea and its continued commitment to a strong, capable, and professional Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary serving the people of PNG.

The 14th Oceania Swimming Championships in Fiji is nearing its end and eight young swimmers representing Papua New Guinea have already swum various heats in the competition all starting at 8:00AM PNG time.Day 1 kicked off on Saturday, 9 May 2026. Swimmers lined up for the 50m Butterfly, featuring Thomas Chen, Josh Tarere, Nicholas Vava, Sujith Noka and Ashton Nasinom for the men’s category. Meanwhile Joanna Chen, Roxanne Kirarock, and Tehila Vavar swam for the women. Noka and Chen (Joanna) were also set to compete in the 100m Backstroke in their respective categories, while the excitement continued with the 4 x 50m Mixed Freestyle Relay, including Chen (Thomas), Tarere, Chen (Joanna), and Kirarock. Rounding out the day’s action in the heats was the 4 x 100m Mixed Medley Relay, with Chen (Joanna), Nasinom, Vava, and Vavar ready to make their mark. Day 2 on Sunday 10 May 2026, the heats began with Chen (Joanna), Vavar, and Noka lined up for the 50m Backstroke in their respective male and female categories. Afterwards the 100m Freestyle featured Chen (Joanna), Kirarock, Vavar, Tarere, Noka, and Vava. In the 100m Breaststroke, Thomas Chen and Ashton Nasinom were ready to race, and the day’s action wrapped up with the 4 x 50m Mixed Medley Relay, featuring Joanna Chen, Thomas Chen, Roxanne Kirarock, and Josh Tarere. Day 3, Monday 11 May 2026, the swimmers hit the pool for the 50m Breaststroke with Roxanne Kirarock, Tehila Vavar, Thomas Chen, Nicholas Vava, and Ashton Nasinom competing. Noka took on the 400m Freestyle, while the 4 x 100m Freestyle Relay showcased Tarere, Chen (Thomas), Vava, and Noka, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. Scheduled events for Day 4 include the 4 x 100m Mixed Freestyle Relay featuring Sujith Noka, Nicholas Vava, Joanna Chen, and Tehila Vavar. Roxanne Kirarock competed in the 200m Individual Medley, while PNG swimmers Josh Tarere, Nicholas Vava, Sujith Noka, Roxanne Kirarock, Joanna Chen, and Tehila Vavar race in the 50m Freestyle. Thomas Chen and Ashton Nasinom were also scheduled for the 200m Breaststroke. PNG will close out its campaign in the 4 x 100m Medley Relay with Sujith Noka, Thomas Chen, Nicholas Vava, and Josh Tarere.

Kina Bank has stepped in to support animal welfare in Papua New Guinea, donating essential pet supplies to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) to assist in the daily care of shelter animals awaiting adoption.The donation, made on Friday 24th April 2026 by the CEO’s office, included pet food, blankets, pillows, and toys that are vital for maintaining the comfort and wellbeing of animals under shelter care. The support was formally received by Senior Veterinary Nurse Ms. Jasmine Mileng on behalf of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), who welcomed the contribution as a meaningful boost to ongoing animal care efforts. Ms. Mileng said the donation will directly improve conditions for animals in the shelter. “On behalf of RSPCA, we sincerely thank Kina Bank for this thoughtful donation,” she said. “These items will make a real difference in caring for the animals at our shelter and ensuring they are comfortable while they wait to find their forever homes.” From the bank’s side, Chief of Staff Mr. Mackhenly Kaiok said the initiative reflects Kina Bank’s broader commitment to community support beyond financial services. “This is a small gesture, but one we hope will go a long way in supporting the care of the animals housed at RSPCA,” Kaiok said. “We appreciate the important work the RSPCA team does and are pleased to contribute in a practical way while these animals await adoption and new homes.” The donation forms part of a series of community-focused initiatives by Kina Bank staff, highlighting ongoing efforts to contribute to social and welfare causes across Papua New Guinea. Bank officials say such initiatives reflect a culture of corporate responsibility, where support extends beyond banking services into community wellbeing and humanitarian care. The RSPCA continues to rely on public and private support to maintain operations, care for abandoned and rescued animals, and promote responsible animal ownership across the country. The latest donation is expected to help ease resource pressures at the shelter while improving the quality of care provided to animals awaiting adoption.