Polling for the Dei Open by election in Western Highlands province began on Saturday, January 17th as scheduled with the election writs expected to be returned on February 20th.The Acting Electoral Commissioner, Mrs. Margaret Vagi confirmed this while calling on voters and candidates to remain calm and respectful throughout the polling and counting period. She urged everyone involved to follow proper legal processes to ensure a smooth and fair election. She said officers from the Papua New Guinea Electoral Commission (PNGEC) operations branch, training section and awareness team have been deployed to the electorate. They are supporting officers on the ground and working closely with Returning Officers (ROs) and Assistant Returning Officers (AROs) to ensure polling runs successfully. Mrs. Vagi also raised concern over reports of early campaigning for the 2027 National General Elections and warned candidates, political parties and supporters to stop the practice immediately. “Early campaigning for the NGE2027 is illegal and can cost a candidate or a party disqualification or fines under electoral and national laws,” Mrs. Vagi said. “Do not do early campaigning; this includes social media and online platforms as well. There are applicable laws that can be utilized and those defaulting candidates, parties and their supporters will be charged under relevant laws,” she said. Meanwhile, Mrs. Vagi said public awareness for the 2027 National General Elections has already started. Information messages will be shared through Facebook and the media, particularly on the National Broadcasting Corporation radio network. The Acting Electoral Commissioner is confident the government will fully fund PNGEC operations in 2026 as preparations continue for the 2027 National Elections.

Saltwater crocodiles lately have been seen along the Aroma Coast in the Central province where there have been instances of attacks, prompting action from locals as the area is fast becoming a regular hot spot for these extremely dangerous reptiles.According to a Community Leader Mr. Avis Vanua, several attacks by crocodiles cannot go unnoticed. “Yes, the crocodiles made several attacks; therefore, I came up with this initiative of placing the sign boards to warn people to stay out of danger zones,” he said. Mr. Vanua confirmed that he had approached several relevant government agencies to provide support in terms of funding the “Beach Crocodile Signage Warning Boards” initiative. “I am glad to have the support of the National Disaster Centre (NDC), the Disaster Risk Management (DRM) team, PNG Climate Change (PNGCC) and the Central Provincial Disaster and Emergency office. This support has made it possible for me to build and put up crocodile warning signage board,” he said. Mr. Vanua said the sign boards will stand to remind the Aroma people to take precaution when going to the beach. He also urged the good people of Aroma to look after the sign boards. The initiative is being supported by the Central Provincial Government through acting Provincial Administrator Mr. Bala Kapa and the East and West Aroma Local Level Government (LLG) in Abau District. Mr. Vanua said he would also consult PNG CCDA and CEPA to install VHF/UHF radios in Paramana to monitor and report any movements of crocodiles.

Local Level Government (LLG) leaders from across the Rabaul District in East New Britain province gathered today at the Malaguna Technical Secondary School Hall to begin a week-long induction program.This initiative, spearheaded by the East New Britain Provincial Administration (ENBPA) through the Division of District, LLGs, and Ward Affairs, is designed to equip leaders with the essential skills and knowledge needed to serve their communities effectively over the next five years. The training brings together a significant cohort of local leadership, including the Rabaul Town Mayor, three LLG Presidents, and 49 ward members. Joining them are their respective Ward Development Committees and ward recorders, ensuring that all levels of local governance are aligned. Under the theme “Resetting Fundamentals of Change, Transforming the Future,” the program focuses on empowering these leaders to master government systems and ethical leadership roles. Member for Rabaul Dr. Allan Marat, officially opened the proceedings by offering spiritual encouragement to the participants. Drawing from the biblical text of Jeremiah 1:5, Dr. Marat reminded the leaders that their roles were part of a divine plan. “You are special, before you were formed in your mother’s womb, God chose you and sanctified you,” Dr. Marat recited. “He knew you and had a plan for you.” He emphasized that they are not merely regular citizens, but visionary leaders chosen by God to guide the people, urging them to view their positions with a sense of sacred responsibility. Meanwhile, Deputy Provincial Administrator Danley Puapena also addressed the assembly, highlighting that this induction marks the final stage of the election process following several previous deferrals. He stressed that good governance and leadership are the primary drivers of development. Mr. Puapena urged the leaders to maintain high standards of integrity and conduct, noting that they must remain responsive to the specific needs and local contexts of their communities. The first day of the program covered a comprehensive range of topics, including the legal and policy frameworks governing LLGs, the Leadership Code, and the core values of ethical management. Participants also explored the structures and functions of ward governance and the practicalities of ward office management. The induction program is set to continue tomorrow, with further presentations scheduled from various ENBPA divisions and stakeholders.

It is common practice in most shops that has been going on for so long where when one uses an EFTPOS terminal for transactions to do purchases, there is always an accompanying fee for cashbacks, but this practice is illegal.The Independent Consumer and Competition Commission (ICCC) recently put out a public notice reminding consumers that they should not be paying these illegal fees. The public notice was put out after the ICCC received several consumer complaints, plus its own preliminary investigation revealed that to be true. The Commission descried this practice as unfair to consumers. “The public is advised to remain vigilant and report any shops that continues to charge fees for EFTPOS cash back transactions immediately, so that the matter can be investigated and necessary action taken against non- compliant businesses,” the Commission informed in the public notice. The ICCC also met with the BSP Financial Group Limited and Kina Bank Limited regarding this matter and both banks have agreed to work closely with the Commission to ensure all shops comply with the Merchant Agreement between the banks and the shops. BSP also put out a public notice of its own supporting the call from ICCC, expressing concern over this practice and urging its customers to report any unauthorized fees to Merchantservice@bsp.com.pg so that action can be taken as well by the bank on its merchants that do not comply. Consumers can also report or put their complaints to the ICCC on email Infor@iccc.gov.pg or complaints@icc.gov.pg.

Secretary for Education Dr Uke Kombra has reassured parents, teachers, and communities that high educational standards will continue, despite the phasing out of Grade 8 and 10 selections. Examinations and assessments will remain in place to measure student performance and provide data to improve teaching. Dr Kombra said the reform does not lower standards but ensures that students are not labelled as failures at a young age. FODE programs will continue to support students needing flexible schedules or additional learning options. “This reform is about giving every child the opportunity they deserve to reach their full potential. By removing selections at the end of Grade 8 and 10, we are taking a bold step towards a fairer and more inclusive education system. No parent with the right mind will want 73,500 of their 13- or 15-year-old children to be dropped out of school and labelled as failures,” Dr Kombra said. He acknowledged challenges in implementation but emphasized that with the support of parents, teachers, and stakeholders, the vision of a more equitable and modern education system is achievable. “Education reform is never easy, but it is necessary for the progress of our nation,” he concluded. The Department of Education will continue engagement programs, teacher orientations, and awareness campaigns to support smooth implementation of the reforms nationwide.

A record number of teams have come together in Wau-Waria district for the seven-day Wau-Waria Soccer Open League.More than 40 men’s teams and 8 women’s teams are competing, making it one of the biggest sports events in the area.Teams came from across the district and nearby local-level government areas, bringing communities together.The tournament is supported by the Youth Empowerment Program and the Wau-Waria District Development Authority.Coordinator Aaron Bimbo said the high number of teams shows growing interest in football and helps promote unity and healthy competition.Prize money also boosted participation, with K10,000 for the men’s winners and K5,000 for the women’s champions.Organizers say the event is more than football—it brings people together and strengthens community ties.

The Governor's Cup tournament held at Almami Local Level Government (LLG) in the Bogia District of Madang Province has progressed smoothly into its final stages.Tournament Master Donatus Walo said the games have been running well since the official kickoff by Madang Governor Ramsey Pariwa last Sunday.Walo acknowledged that organizers encountered minor challenges during the tournament but said these did not disrupt the overall success of the event.“We had a few challenges, but that will not stop us from running a successful tournament,” he said.He confirmed that the tournament has now reached the finals phase, with volleyball set to conclude today while soccer has advanced to the Top 16 stage.“The tournament is already at the finals. Soccer is now in the Top 16 while volleyball will have its finals today, and the games are expected to conclude this week,” Walo said.He appealed to participating teams to maintain discipline, respect match officials and uphold true sportsmanship to ensure the tournament ends successfully for Almami LLG.

The government’s free education policy will continue this year, with a significant increase in funding to support the education of children across Papua New Guinea.Secretary for Education, Dr. Uke Kombra, recently confirmed that the government has allocated K904 million for the policy in 2026 – a notable rise from K860 million in 2025 and K732 million in 2022. He emphasized that the increase in funding reflects the government's effort to provide equitable education opportunities to all children, whether they are from well-resourced or under-resourced provinces. “Over the last five years the tuition fees of government allocations for government free education have increased.” “This funding increase is essential to ensure that all students, irrespective of where they live or their family's financial situation, have a fair chance to attend school.” Dr. Kombra also thanked the government for its continued support of the policy, noting that while some provinces are better resourced, the free education initiative ensures that students across the country are supported equally. This policy is designed to bridge the gap between well-off and resource-limited provinces, ensuring access to education for all. “We want to ensure that every child, regardless of their geographical location or economic background, has the opportunity to receive an education.” The Department of Education has already received last year’s allocation of K860 million. Dr. Kombra assured that the department is working closely with the Treasury Department to ensure that the funds for this year are released promptly. While the free education policy will remain in place, Dr. Kombra revealed that there will be a few adjustments this year, including increased funding for FODE students, special education, and boarding students. The National Education Board has made these requests, and the changes are currently being reviewed. “Once the policy is signed off, we will provide further details on the adjustments.”

The PNG Hekari FC's start in the OFC Professional League campaign did not go as hoped for after going down to the Solomon Kings FC 1- 0 this afternoon at Edan Park in Auckland, New Zealand.Solomon Kings FC made a winning start to the OFC Pro League as they overcame 10-man PNG Hekari FC in the final match of the weekend at Eden Park. The final two teams to make their competition bow, both coaches were determined to make up for the wait and lay down an early marker in Round 1. Expectations were high as both teams fielded starting line-ups packed full of attacking intent and there was no shortage of commitment in the opening 45 minutes. Solomon Kings FC forwards Rafa Lea’i and Jez Lofthouse looked dangerous but for all their hard work, no opening goal was forthcoming. PNG Hekari FC occasionally probed at the other end, but hearts were in mouths for Marcos Gusmão’s side when goalkeeper Dave Tomare was shown a red card for handling the ball outside the area. The captain, however, was given a reprieve when a VAR check proved that no contact had been made between arm and ball. PNG Hekari almost stole a lead as time ticked over the 45 minutes, when John Orobulu found himself with time and space 12 yards out. The forward, perhaps not realising how much freedom he had been afforded, snatched at his effort and flashed it over the bar. His team’s attempts at breaking the deadlock became even more challenging just after the break, however, Ati Kepo, in rather innocuous circumstances, appeared to lash out at Bobbie Leslie. Initially brandishing a yellow card, referee Veer Singh correctly upgraded to red after a VAR check showed Kepo to have connected with Leslie’s face. Both sides responded to the change in dynamic with substitutions and it was Ben Cahn’s replacements that made the difference. Japanese forward Sota Higashide, with his first touch since entering the field, connected with a low cross from William Komasi and put Solomon Kings in front. The lead was almost doubled thanks to Junior David. The forward taking advantage of the additional space available to fire an effort narrowly wide of Dave Tomare’s right-hand post. Despite being a man down, PNG Hekari FC battled admirably and on a couple of occasions threatened with their rare breaks forward. Veteran striker Raymond Gunemba coming closest with an effort from a narrow angle that flew over. The Solomon Kings comfortably held on, despite not adding to their lead, securing a crucial opening match victory.

Madang Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, has expressed deep frustration and issued a stern warning to maritime operators following a tragic sea mishap between Raikos and the Madang District.The incident, which occurred early Saturday morning, resulted in a boat capsizing, leaving several passengers injured and two individuals still missing at sea. This reflects the facts as they are known to date and convey a strong message regarding safety, accountability, and the actions expected of all maritime operators and the public. On the morning of January 17, 2026, at approximately 6:00 AM, a 40-horsepower banana boat departed Madang, Siar village bound for Kimbe, carrying seven passengers and more than 30 bags of betel nuts. Upon encountering rough seas outside Tabalip Point, the overloaded vessel capsized. Survivors remained in the water for nearly nine hours until a passing passenger boat rescued five individuals at 3:00 PM. The survivors were taken to the Basamuk MCC clinic for urgent medical treatment. Search efforts are currently focused on the waters surrounding Bagabag and Long Island, where it is believed the two may be drifting. Local authorities continue to coordinate recovery operations despite challenging conditions. PPC Baim expressed the continued disregard for safety advisories and warnings issued by the National Maritime Authority, national weather office and the Madang Water Police. Despite repeated alerts and public outreach, too many people appear willing to subject themselves and respond to unnecessary risk through non-essential voyages in rough conditions. “My water police officers operate with finite resources, funding, and manpower, and the tragedy we witnessed underscores the consequences of ignoring official guidance and weather advisories.” “Police are human beings like you and I; I cannot send them out to rescue you when we are under-resourced with funding and equipment,” said PPC Baim, underscoring the strain on responders and the imperative to act prudently. Ongoing search and rescue operations are coordinated with local authorities, focusing on the seas around Bagabag and Long Island where the missing skipper and owner are believed to be. Meanwhile, the survivors are receiving medical attention at Basamuk MCC company clinic in which further medical updates will be provided as they become available. In addition, a formal investigation will be conducted to determine the circumstances leading to the incident, including compliance with safety regulations, adequacy of safety equipment, and adherence to weather advisories. “Every maritime operator must ensure the vessel is seaworthy, life jackets and safety gear are available and functional, and that the crew is trained to respond to emergencies.” “Passengers should heed weather warnings, avoid non-essential travel when conditions are poor, and inform local authorities of intended routes and schedules.” Moreover, PPC Baim stated that officials and responders will continue to monitor conditions, allocate resources prudently, and prioritize saving lives while protecting our Officers. “I urge all stakeholders, boat operators, passengers, families, and communities to respect and act on official advisories.” “This is a matter of life and death, and it is everyone’s responsibility to act prudently.” “We appreciate the cooperation of the public in providing information to assist with searches and in safeguarding our responders by avoiding interference and unnecessary risks.”

The refurbished Puma Aviation Depot at Buka in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (AROB) is now open for business.Puma Energy PNG officially opened its refurbished aviation depot on Wednesday 14th January, marking the company’s unwavering commitment to connecting the people of AROB to the rest of Papua New Guinea (PNG), and the world. “Today’s ceremony is small but it’s very important occasion as Buka airport is a key gateway into the Autonomous Region of Bougainville and in terms of transportation services,” said Aviation Manager–Commercial Manager, Carl Tammur.“Puma Energy is dedicated to delivering the highest quality products and services to our valued customers and ensuring safety at the same time,” he added.Puma Energy acknowledges the partnership with the local landowners of the area. “We believe in the potential of this region and look forward to a sustainable partnership into the future.“We are not just a fuel provider; we are a partner in the progress of AROB and PNG. With your continued support, Puma Energy will continue to set new benchmarks for excellence in the aviation industry.”Puma Energy is committed to “Energising Communities in PNG”.

Huon Gulf District has opened a newly established high school funded through the Infrastructure Development Grant (IDG), marking a major step forward in expanding access to secondary education for remote communities in Lower Watut.The school, Tsilistili Kundut High School, is located at Tsilitsili in the Wampar Local Level Government (LLG) area of Huon Gulf District of Morobe Province, and was officially opened on Friday 16th January. The project was made possible under an agreement signed with the late former Morobe Governor Luther Wenge, with funding drawn from IDG allocations for communities affected by the proposed Wafi-Golpu mining.Tsilistili Kundut High School will admit its first cohort of students in the 2026 academic year and will operate as a boarding institution, providing education opportunities for students from river-based and hard-to-reach communitiesThe opening ceremony was officiated by Huon Gulf District Member of Parliament (MP) Jason Peter, together with Morobe Provincial Education Senior Inspector Gibson Dom, who commissioned the facilities and described the school as a long-term investment in education for impacted communities.The school comprises six double classrooms, two student dormitories, and four teachers’ houses. Ablution blocks and a school mess building have also been constructed to support student welfare and daily school operations.Construction was carried out by Mairobs Building and Construction Limited, led by its Managing Director Mr. Robert Nohorou. Mr. Nohorou confirmed that the total project cost was K3.5 million, noting that a large portion of the funding was spent on logistics and transportation due to the absence of road access. He said all materials and equipment had to be transported by dugout motor canoes.Student intake will be limited to seven designated primary schools within the Lower Watut area, with all selected students progressing into Grade 9 as pioneer students, regardless of examination results, to ensure inclusivity during the school’s establishment phase.Community leaders, parents, and stakeholders welcomed the opening, describing the school as a meaningful outcome of development agreements that will deliver long-term benefits for Lower Watut communities.Officials from the Morobe Provincial Education Office, along with local business representatives Yawing Babul of Huon Technology and Mr. Ross Seymour of Coastal Freighters Limited also attended the ceremony.Enrolment preparations are now underway ahead of the school’s official commencement in 2026.