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.

Get ready for the Enga Province Music Festival, dropping in 2027. The Enga Music Team, including renowned singer and songwriter Mal Meninga Kuri (MMK), recently announced that a five-day music festival is set to launch in Enga Province next year. According to his Facebook post shared on May 11, MMK explained that the event will bring together emerging artists from all six districts of the province. In true Niugini style hospitality, performers from across the four regions will also be invited to participate. The festival’s primary goal is to promote local talent, foster unity, and encourage positive social change throughout the province. The event is designed to offer much more than just musical performances. The program will include awareness sessions, SME business opportunities, and youth empowerment activities intended to benefit the people of Enga both economically and socially. MMK noted that while sports have traditionally been the "glue" that unites the province, the Provincial and Local Level Governments recognize that creative arts, particularly music, can serve as a similar tool for progress. This festival aims to provide an additional path for bringing hope and inspiration to the younger generation. Meninga emphasized that the festival will remain entirely free of political influence or control. He reiterated that the event is organized strictly for the community, the youth, and the long-term development of the local music industry within the province. While the Enga Music Team is maintaining its independence, they welcome support from government leaders, business houses, NGOs, and community partners to help make the vision a success. To ensure the festival is accessible to everyone, there will be no gate fees for the public, and security personnel will be present throughout the five days to maintain a safe and orderly environment for all attendees. More details on the event will be made available to the public soon.

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.

More than 1,500 health workers across Papua New Guinea are receiving a combined K3.5 million in life insurance survival benefits this year under BSP Life PNG’s Wantok Delite Life Insurance product, in what is being described as a major milestone for insurance participation in the country. The announcement was made in Port Moresby on Monday, 11 May 2026, with BSP Life PNG confirming that the payouts are being made to members of the PNG Health Support Workers Association (PNGHSWA). The benefit scheme traces back to January 2023, when more than 2,000 PNGHSWA members were enrolled into BSP Life’s Group Term Life cover with premiums funded by the PNG Government before transitioning into the Wantok Delite insurance product. Under the policy, members are entitled to receive a guaranteed Survival Benefit payout equivalent to 10 percent of their total sum insured every three years, provided the policy remains active. For members who joined in 2023, this year marks their first payout cycle. BSP Life PNG Country Manager Nilson Singh said the initiative reflects a significant step in protecting workers and their families financially. “We commend the PNG Health Support Workers Association and the PNG Government for taking that bold step three years ago to protect their members and their families with life insurance,” Singh said. According to BSP Life, many recipients are already using the payouts for important family needs including school fees, loan repayments, home repairs, and community support. The insurer also noted that many members were surprised to learn that life insurance products could provide living cash benefits while policyholders are still alive, challenging common misconceptions surrounding insurance in Papua New Guinea. “Not only has the Association secured its members’ futures, but it has also placed trust in BSP Life to deliver living benefits real cash returns that members can use today,” Singh said. “Our purpose is to Champion Prosperity for the South Pacific, and we are proud to be making a difference in the lives of so many Papua New Guineans.” Beyond the survival payouts, BSP Life confirmed it has also paid more than K1.8 million in death claims to families of PNGHSWA members under the Group Insurance scheme. Singh described insurance as a critical financial safety net, especially for families facing unexpected financial hardship. BSP Life PNG Board Chairman Rabbie Namaliu Junior said the milestone demonstrates the growing value of insurance in strengthening financial resilience across the country. “Today, members of the PNG Health Support Workers Association and their families are seeing real benefits. Behind every payout is a family, a future, and a promise fulfilled,” Namaliu said. PNGHSWA Acting General Secretary Boni Kaipa also acknowledged the partnership between the government, BSP Life, and the association, saying the benefits extend beyond individual workers to families nationwide. The Survival Benefit payouts began in February 2026 and are expected to continue throughout the year for all eligible members under the scheme.

The Member (MP) for Hiri Koiari, Keith Iduhu, has admitted that the lack of government funding is the reason behind the poor delivery of key infrastructure developments in the district for some time. But despite this hindrance, the Deputy Opposition Leader said the Hiri Koiari District Development Authority (HKDDA) under his stewardship as chairman, continues to deliver with the little resource available. He said education and health are key sectors that the HKDDA continues to support in the district to serve the people. A recent handover of keys for a new teacher's house for the Papa Junior High School in Hiri West, shows that despite the challenges, the MP along with the DDA continue to deliver. "The opening of this teacher's house is more than just the accommodation. It reflects our collective commitment and dedication to building and supporting learning environment.""While there is still more to be done in improving school infrastructures under the education department's 1-6-6 reform, I must be candid in noting that government funding to the Hiri Koiari district remains a challenge and this continues to hinder progress," he said. " Be as it may, we do our best to apply our limited resources in impact priority areas such as health and education," he said. He acknowledged the Local Level Government (LLG) President for Hiri, Haoda Rogea and all the Hiri West Ward Members for their time and support in making this occasion a reality. Mr. Iduhu was accompanied by his Opposition colleague and MP for Middle Fly, Maso Hewabi to witness the occasion.

Westpac PNG has congratulated the PNG Indigenous team following an impressive campaign at the recent 2026 National Indigenous Cricket Championships (NICC) in Mackay, Australia.Papua New Guinea claimed the NICC Men’s Spirit of Cricket Award and several players received individual honours throughout the tournament. The championships were held on Yuwibara Country from April 14–19, featuring men’s and women’s T20 competitions at Great Barrier Reef Arena and Harrup Park. Papua New Guinea took part in the men’s division as an invitational side for the first time, while four PNG Lewas players also represented South Australia’s women’s team during the event. PNG’s performances highlighted the country’s growing cricket talent and the team’s commitment to sportsmanship and discipline ahead of upcoming international fixtures. Among the major achievements, Papua New Guinea received the NICC Men’s Spirit of Cricket Award, while Tony Ura was named Men’s Player of the Championship and selected in the Men’s Team of the Championship. Henao Thomas earned selection in the Women’s Team of the Championship, while Michael Charlie received the Westpac Player of the Round award for Round Two. Several PNG players also secured Westpac Player of the Match honours during the competition: Round 1 vs Queensland – Tony Ura Round 2 vs Tasmania – Michael Charlie Round 4 vs South Australia – Sese Bau Round 5 vs Northern Territory – Hila Vare Round 7 vs Tasmania – Tony Ura PNG recorded a series of strong performances during the week, including back-to-back victories in rounds four and five to remain unbeaten midway through the tournament. The competition also served as important preparation for upcoming international assignments, including the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier in Japan. Chief Executive of Westpac PNG, Andrew Cairns, said the bank was proud to see the PNG Indigenous team recognised for both its performances and sportsmanship. “We’re proud to see the PNG Indigenous team recognised for both performance and sportsmanship at the NICC. Congratulations to the players and staff, especially those who received Westpac match awards throughout the tournament,” Cairns said. Cricket PNG High Performance Manager and Head Coach Tim McCaskill said the tournament provided valuable preparation for future competitions. “The Spirit of Cricket award reflects the standards we set for ourselves as a group, and the individual honours are a credit to the players’ hard work,” McCaskill said. The team has since returned to Port Moresby and resumed preparations for upcoming fixtures and tournament commitments. The participation of the PNG Indigenous team and PNG Lewas players was supported through the Australian Government’s PacificAus Sports program, which helps Pacific athletes, coaches and officials access elite competition and high-performance opportunities.

Joint security forces in Enga Province have intensified operations targeting alcohol-fuelled crime, with police and the Papua New Guinea Defence Force recording multiple arrests and major alcohol seizures during coordinated patrols across Wabag and surrounding areas.The operations, conducted between 10 and 11 May 2026, are being led by the Enga Provincial Police Command under Chief Superintendent Steven Harris, focusing on restoring law and order in areas identified as hotspots for alcohol-related violence and public disorder. The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC), working alongside the Papua New Guinea Defence Force, confirmed the seizure of 57 cartons of SP beer during targeted patrols in Wabag Central Business District, Kamas, and Und Village.  Authorities also arrested 14 individuals for drunk and disorderly behavior, while one foreign national was detained for further investigation. PPC Harris said the operation is part of an ongoing crackdown on illegal alcohol supply and consumption, which he described as a major driver of violence in the province. “Alcohol continued to be a major driver of violence, disorder and offending across Enga Province,” Harris said. “We have seen assaults, tribal violence, domestic violence, public disorder and serious offending linked directly to intoxication and the illegal sale of alcohol.” He added that joint security operations would continue aggressively across the province, including patrols, checkpoints, searches, and targeted enforcement actions. “The combined security operation under my command is ramping up and not going away,” he said. “You do not need a bush knife or an axe in town, around markets or in public places. If anyone is carrying those items unlawfully, they will be arrested.” PPC Harris also responded to criticism of the focus on alcohol-related enforcement, defending the operational approach on the ground. “I encourage those people who argue against focusing on alcohol-related violence and crime to stand in the middle of two groups of drunk men fighting and explain how their alternative approach would work,” he said. He confirmed that over 500 cartons of illegal alcohol have now been seized in recent weeks as part of sustained enforcement efforts. Despite ongoing tensions, Harris said recent operations had produced measurable improvements, including a reported 72-hour period with no tribal fighting, no major violent incidents, and no serious crime reports. He credited the results to consistent enforcement, visible policing, and community cooperation. “This is the result of consistent enforcement, visible policing, community cooperation and people making better decisions,” he said. The PPC also acknowledged community leaders and residents who have supported the operations, saying many Engans want stronger enforcement to restore peace and stability. He emphasized that Enga is not a conflict zone but a province with strong cultural values and deserves safety and order. “Enga is not a war zone, but it is a province with strong people, strong culture and strong communities that deserve safety, stability and the protection of the law,” Harris said. Security forces confirmed they will continue joint operations as efforts intensify to reduce alcohol-related crime and reinforce law and order across the province.

Digicel Pacific has announced that Mr. Tarik Boudiaf will step down as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Digicel Papua New Guinea after nearly two years in the role, to return to France to be with his family.In a statement, Roary Stasko, CEO of Telstra International, acknowledged the company’s ongoing commitment to the country, saying Digicel PNG continues to play a vital role in connecting communities nationwide. “Digicel PNG plays an important role in connecting people across the country,” Stasko said. “Our focus remains firmly on serving our customers, supporting communities, and contributing to the economic development of Papua New Guinea. We remain committed to providing reliable connectivity and services that matter to the people of PNG.” Digicel Pacific confirmed it will begin the process of recruiting a permanent successor to the position. In the meantime, Brett Goschen, Chief Financial Officer of Digicel Group, will assume the role of acting CEO to ensure continuity of leadership and ongoing business operations.

Australia is closely collaborating with Papua New Guinea (PNG) to ensure health services are delivered effectively and efficiently across PNG. This includes a recent delivery of essential medical supplies to Western and Milne Bay provinces. Nearly seventeen (17) tons of medical supplies were delivered to North Fly District in Western province, and an additional two (2) tons were distributed, including oxygen to Alotau in Milne Bay. These deliveries are part of continuous efforts to ensure communities in remote and hard-to-reach areas are receiving essential health services. The supplies, which were uplifted from the Port Moresby Medical Store in Badili, were transported by the Royal Australian Air Force to Tabubil and Alotau. A total of twenty-one (21) facilities were reached across North and Middle Fly districts in Western Province plus ten (10) health facilities across Milne Bay. These deliveries were made possible through the close collaboration between the Australian Government, the National Department of Health. Provincial Health Authorities in Western and Milne Bay provinces, and partners including the Sustainable Development Program (SDP) and Ok Tedi Limited. Each of these partners play a vital role in allowing a safe and timely movement of supplies from Port Moresby city to provincial hubs and onward to local health facilities. The operation reflects a strong and enduring partnership between Australia and Papua New Guinea. Close coordination efforts continue to support resilient health systems and improved health outcomes for communities across PNG.