The Bougainville House of Representatives has passed the 2026 ABG Budget, a K844,090,000 financial plan that is aimed at strengthening Bougainville’s institutional readiness, economic transformation, and service delivery as Bougainville progresses readiness towards political independence.The Budget was tabled by the ABG Minister for Treasury and Finance, Hon. Albert Punghau in parliament last week, and was passed unanimously by the House on Friday 19th December 2025, in its final sitting for the year. Minister Punghau outlined that the 2026 Budget comprises K520.36 million in National Government grants, K46.74 million in internal revenue, and K276.9 million in re-appropriated development funds. Of the total K844million budget, the recurrent component totals to K240.98million representing 28.55 percent, while the development component totals K603.11million or 71.45 percent. “This structure protects core recurrent services, yet it places the main delivery burden on the development program, so results in 2026 will be judged by completed projects and visible service improvements rather than approvals on paper,” Minister Punghau said. Minister Punghau explained that the Budget retains the 2024 structure, which separates funding streams under the two Organic Laws - the Organic Law on Peace Building in Bougainville 2002 and the Organic Law on Provincial and Local Level Governments 1995. “This clarifies which funds sit under ABG control and which funds sit under national administration, and it sets out the conditions, approval processes, and reporting and acquittal requirements for each stream,” he said. “This strengthens compliance, improves transparency, reduces fiscal risk and supports police services. This is to deliver constituency-led development through equal K1million allocations under Constituency Independence-Readiness Program (CIRP) Guideline endorsed by BEC with strict controls and verified outputs, furthermore, to strengthen fiscal self-reliance by expanding internal revenue, tightening expenditure control and investing in infrastructure and other economic enablers to reduce reliance on delayed grant releases.

The National Capital District (NCD) and Central Province Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner Benjamin Turi, has confirmed that a police officer captured in a viral social media photo has been identified and disciplined.The photo, which circulated widely online, showed the officer in full uniform and visibly intoxicated while allowing a peer to pose with an official police firearm. Commander Turi clarified that although the photo recently gained traction, it was an older image. He was first notified of the incident last month and immediately ordered an investigation. The officer has since been brought in for questioning and dealt with according to the department's disciplinary protocols. “We are hard on police officers who step out of line,” said the ACP. “So far, we have arrested and charged more than ten police officers this year who have committed different offenses and this case was no exception.” “Those who were involved in accidents with police vehicles were also investigated.” “We want to maintain command and control, so the new recruits who will be graduating in the future must know that the police is a disciplined organization.” “We appreciate the public tagging us in photos of undisciplined officers. We are taking note of all these and are dealing with them.” In addition, Commander Turi said his command had also taken steps to breathalyze police officers, which the Internal Affairs Directorate officers are in charge of conducting it. He stated that they had visited police stations to test police officers who are on duty, including the police drivers. They are being tested for drugs and alcohol. The first test around the police stations in the command is to inform the police officers that they will be charged if they are caught drunk while on duty or consuming drugs while on duty. He noted that with the increasing number of police vehicles involved in accidents, the machines donated to the command will be used to test drivers when they are on duty or are involved in accidents. While commending the police and the community for always reporting police officers who are stepping out of line, he also called on the public to respect police officers when performing their duties. He urged citizens to cooperate if approached by an officer, even if the officer is alone or unarmed. He stated that individuals suspected of an offense must stop, listen, and avoid resisting arrest, noting that when both parties cooperate, the potential for crime and conflict is significantly reduced.

Madang Urban Local Level Government (LLG) Mayor Mr. Ishmael Yama, has extended his official Christmas message to residents, stakeholders, and visitors, calling on the public to celebrate the festive season in unity, peace, and responsibility.“Christmas is a significant Christian occasion that reminds us of the birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, and the values of faith, love, humility, peace, and service that must continue to guide us as a community.” He encouraged families to use the festive season to strengthen relationships while celebrating responsibly. “I urge everyone to celebrate responsibly, take care of one another, and prioritize safety during this festive period,” he said. “Let us work together to maintain peace, law and order, and social harmony throughout Christmas and into the New Year.” Mayor Yama also acknowledged the Madang Provincial Government under the leadership of Madang Governor Ramsey Pariwa, along with the Madang Provincial Events Committee, for their role in hosting the 2025 Christmas celebrations in Madang. “Your leadership has promoted unity, cultural pride, and strong community participation.” Looking ahead, the mayor reaffirmed his commitment to working with key stakeholders to support development within the urban area. “As we conclude the year, we remain committed to working closely with all levels of government, churches, community leaders, and development partners to advance the social and economic development of Madang Urban Local Level Government.” He concluded by wishing the people of Madang a blessed festive season. “My wish is that this Christmas brings renewed hope, stability, and prosperity to our people and our province.” “I wish everyone a peaceful Christmas and a successful New Year.”

PNG Power Limited says restoring confidence in Lae’s electricity supply is critical to the city’s economic recovery, as many businesses continue to rely on private generators due to unreliable grid power. focuses Speaking to the Lae business community recently, PNG Power Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Paul Bayly said the company is focused on fixing core electricity systems rather than short-term solutions, with reliability and voltage stability as top priorities.“Our investment is about fixing the system,” Bayly said. “As reliability improves, voltage stability improves as well.”PNG Power is expanding substation infrastructure across Lae, including the construction of a new substation at Malahang funded through the Asian Development Bank (ADB).Bayly said additional substations allow electricity to be rerouted during faults, reducing both the scale and duration of power outages.Plans are also underway for a new substation to support the proposed Lae Port Special Economic Zone (SEZ), aimed at strengthening power supply for industrial and commercial users.Bayly said international partners play a major role in supporting network upgrades, with funding assistance coming from the Asian Development Bank, the World Bank, DFAT and the Australian government.He clarified that the US$50 million allocated for upgrades is an ADB loan to the PNG Government, which has been on-lent to PNG Power and specifically earmarked for transmission and distribution improvements.Renewable energy is also a key part of PNG Power’s long-term strategy, with growing investor interest in solar power projects in Lae.Bayly said rebuilding trust in the public power supply is essential, noting that many businesses still rely on generators due to a lack of confidence in the grid.“If we rebuild reliability and give people confidence, we can bring that suppressed demand back,” he said.“Our focus is clear — reliable power for Lae, and a system that finally does what it should,” Bayly added.

The prime minister has warned public servants with financial authority to stop the “mad rush” of making final payments as the year is about to end and government accounts closing soon.Prime Minister James Marape warned all public servants holding financial authority, particularly Section 32 officers, to immediately stop the traditional “mad rush” of December spending and strictly comply with budget rules, approved work plans and financial laws. In a firm address delivered ahead of the close of the 2025 financial year, Prime Minister Marape cautioned departmental heads, finance officers, cheque signatories and payment authorities against rushing to pay claims, contractors and service providers simply because the calendar year is ending.“There is a false notion that one year’s money must be spent before 31st December, or it is lost. That is a fallacy,” Prime Minister Marape said.He explained that the transition from one financial year to the next is a technical accounting process, not a justification for reckless or rushed expenditure. “Public funds remain public funds. The work continues. Government does not come to a standstill on 31st December. We resume work on 2 January, and the country continues to function,” he said.Prime Minister Marape said Papua New Guinea (PNG) has, for decades, suffered losses, audit issues and financial leakages due to irresponsible year-end spending — a culture he said must now end as part of the Government’s broader PNG@50 Reset agenda.He warned that incomplete paperwork, unsigned contracts, illegitimate claims or expenditures outside approved work plans must not be processed simply to “clear accounts”.The Prime Minister confirmed that he has issued firm financial instructions to the Secretary for Finance, as the Government’s chief financial authority, to formally notify all Section 32 officers that they will be held personally accountable for any misuse or misapplication of public funds. “Section 32 officers will be the point of reference for accountability,” Prime Minister Marape said. He said that from next year, the Government will intensify monitoring and oversight, including the involvement of the National Monitoring and Coordinating Authority, to strengthen scrutiny of expenditure across all departments and agencies. Prime Minister Marape stressed that all claims and payments must follow due process, and where compliance requirements are not met, payments must wait.

Prime Minister James Marape has stated that Telefomin District has lost one of its most productive and committed leaders since Independence in 1975, following the passing of Solan Mirisim, Member for Telefomin and Minister for Works and Highways.Speaking at the funeral service held recently, the Prime Minister remarked that while Telefomin has produced many of Papua New Guinea’s finest leaders, public servants, and police officers over the years, Mirisim stood among the very best of his generation. Drawing on scripture, Prime Minister Marape offered comfort to the mourners, noting that even in times of deep sorrow, light brings reassurance. He observed that when light comes, it brings the realization that such a life was a profound blessing. The Prime Minister acknowledged the presence of the Governors of West Sepik and Western Province, alongside other ministers, leaders, and family members, commending the calm strength and dignity displayed by the Mirisim family and the people of Telefomin. Reflecting on his journey into the district, the Prime Minister noted the visible progress in local infrastructure. “Not every village in Papua New Guinea has classrooms like this,” he said. “Here, we saw proper elementary classrooms supported by staff houses.” This does not happen by accident; it happens because of leadership that believes in education.” He credited Mirisim for working quietly and consistently to ensure that children in remote regions were granted the same opportunities as those in more accessible parts of the country. Prime Minister Marape assured the family, the people of Telefomin and public servants, including police, that the work and vision Mirisim stood for would continue. “Solan Mirisim has left an indelible imprint on national public policy, particularly in infrastructure and connectivity.” In addition, he stated that Telefomin’s location near the Indonesian border gives it national strategic importance, and Mirisim clearly understood the need for the district to be developed as a gateway area facing West Papua. “Our responsibility as a nation is to open up all parts of Papua New Guinea.” “That responsibility began in 1975 and remains today, as we approach 50 years of Independence.” Since 2019, Mirisim was a key member of the leadership group that shaped the government’s principle of inclusive development, aiming to leave no place or person behind. He said true development involves planning for public spaces, including schools, staff housing, and public buildings, not just roads. “As leaders, including myself, many of us come from areas with road access but districts like Telefomin continue to show that rural communities can still produce some of the best minds in our country.” The Prime Minister noted that districts like Telefomin prove that rural communities can produce the nation’s best minds, citing Telefomin and Oksapmin High Schools as top-performing institutions that have produced professionals serving both nationally and internationally. While acknowledging that development in such remote areas is a gradual process that happens “kilometer by kilometer,” the Prime Minister thanked the Missionary Aviation Fellowship for its 70 years of service and Ok Tedi Mining Limited for its economic contributions through tax credit projects. He acknowledged Ok Tedi for its contribution to the national economy, noting that revenues generated must always be used responsibly for the benefit of the people. Looking ahead, he said the greatest way to honour Mirisim was to continue the work he believed in. “In 10- or 20-years’ time, let us be able to say we honoured this leader not only with words, but through continued service to our nation.” The Prime Minister concluded by thanking the people of Telefomin for the trust they placed in Mirisim and extended his deepest condolences to the family on behalf of the Government and people of Papua New Guinea.

A remote village in East Sepik Province is recording steady social and economic progress through community-driven development initiatives supported by development partners, demonstrating how local ownership can deliver sustainable results in rural Papua New Guinea.Improved access infrastructure, including the construction of a new bridge, has significantly strengthened agribusiness activities in the area. The project has enhanced farmers’ ability to transport produce and maintain livelihoods initiated with the support of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) under the European Union-funded EU-STREIT PNG Programme. As a result, cocoa and vanilla farmers are now better positioned to increase production, access markets, and generate income to support their families and invest in their children’s future.The bridge has also improved mobility for the wider community, particularly during the wet season when access was previously unreliable. Villagers say the improved access has reduced isolation and strengthened links with neighbouring communities and service centres.Beyond infrastructure, the village has demonstrated strong governance and financial discipline through the effective use of its Village Trust Fund. Two years ago, the community allocated funds to complete the construction of a permanent elementary classroom and establish a new aid post, bringing essential services closer to residents.The new classroom has created a safer and more conducive learning environment for children who previously studied in overcrowded buildings with poor lighting and ventilation. Teachers report improved attendance and learning conditions, while parents say the facility has renewed confidence in early childhood education within the village.Access to basic healthcare has also improved significantly. Before the aid post was built, villagers— including pregnant mothers, the elderly, and the sick— walked for hours to reach the main highway before travelling to Maprik town for medical services. The local aid post now provides first-line healthcare, reducing travel time, costs, and health risks.East Sepik Governor Allan Bird said the developments reflect a broader vision of empowering communities to take charge of their own development.“This is the vision— empowering communities so they can help themselves without depending entirely on government,” Governor Bird said. “When communities take ownership of development, supported by the right partners, the impact is sustainable and lasting.”The village’s progress highlights the importance of community leadership, accountability, and strategic partnerships in delivering practical development outcomes. As rural communities continue to face challenges in access, services, and livelihoods, the model demonstrated here offers valuable lessons for sustainable development across East Sepik Province and beyond.

Balimo College, funded by the Sustainable Development Program (SDP), celebrated a landmark recently with the graduation of its first 26 students earning Bachelor of Education (Primary) degrees.The Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST)-accredited graduates completed their Diploma of Primary Teaching in March, fulfilling requirements to advance and tackle teacher shortages in their home communities. Now with 105 students enrolled across Years 1-3, the K72 million SDP-backed college- open since 2022, also launched a Bachelor of General Nursing program this year. SDP Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Lesieli Taviri, called the milestone vital for provincial capacity-building. “This underscores our commitment to quality education by addressing teacher and health worker shortages.” “Our priority is strengthening school systems through training and professional development, so these graduates return home to shape the next generation.” The program partners with the Kokoda Track Foundation for management and Western Sydney University for curriculum support, ensuring a steady pipeline of local educators.

Morobe businessman Justin Parker has handed over K25,000 in cash vouchers to police in Lae, Wau, Bulolo, and Mumeng to recognise their dedication during the Christmas season.“Every business is having a hard time, but our police are always on duty and ready to help. That’s something Morobe can be proud of,” Mr. Parker said.The vouchers were presented today to Northern Divisional Commander Peter Guinness and his officers in Lae. Commander Guinness praised the donation, saying it is rare for a private citizen to support police this way.“This contribution is very much appreciated, especially during the festive season,” he said. “It shows that the community values the hard work of our officers.”Mr. Parker added that the gesture is a small way to help officers enjoy Christmas with their families and commended the dedication of younger officers stepping up under strong leadership.

A young man is currently in hospital nursing his wound after being shot in a gun fight with police at Kamkumung Speedway in Lae city this week. The incident occurred around 3am on Tuesday, December 17, while members of the Police Sector Response Unit (SRU) were conducting night patrols in the green and yellow sectors. Police were returning from duties at Talis Kona in East and West Taraka when they spotted a group of youths gathered near a trade store along the Speedway. Lae Metropolitan Commander, Chief Superintendent Chris Kunyaban, said officers ordered the group to stop, but they fled towards the Bumbu River. “During the pursuit, one of the suspects fired a shot at police. Officers took cover and returned fire, wounding one suspect while the others managed to escape,” he said. Police recovered several offensive items at the scene, including homemade pistols, live ammunition, wire catapults and a bag containing personal belongings. A container with a mixed homebrew substance was also found. The wounded suspect was taken to Angau Hospital and identified as a 24-year-old man from Mingendi Village in Kerowaghi District, Simbu Province. He is receiving treatment for a gunshot wound to his right leg. Chief Superintendent Kunyaban said the suspect will be formally arrested and charged once discharged from hospital. He warned that police will continue intense patrols in known crime-prone areas. “We will not tolerate armed criminals threatening the safety of our communities or our police officers,” he said. Police investigations are continuing, and efforts are under way to locate the other suspects who escaped during the incident.

The draw for the highly anticipated 2026 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup has been officially unveiled, sparking excitement among rugby league fans across Papua New Guinea and marking the countdown to another action-packed season.The 2026 competition promises fierce rivalries, memorable matchups and expanded opportunities for supporters to follow their favourite local stars, with fixtures scheduled across major rugby league centres nationwide. Fans in Madang will be among the first to feel the excitement, with the Kandes Rugby League Club set to open their campaign with a Round 1 home clash. The fixture is expected to energize the local community and set the tone for the season ahead. One of the headline fixtures of the opening round will see reigning premiers Lae Snax Tigers begin their title defence against the Kroton Hela Wigmen. The marquee match will form part of a triple-header in Port Moresby, delivering a full day of top-tier rugby league action in the capital. The season will culminate with the Grand Final scheduled for 13 September, where the competition’s top teams will battle for premiership honours. Adding to the excitement, two Super Rounds have been confirmed, with Round 3 to be hosted in Goroka and Round 16 in Lae, bringing elite-level rugby league closer to fans in key heartlands of the sport. Organizers say the 2026 draw has been designed to strengthen the connection between clubs and supporters by increasing matches in regional centres and providing greater access to live rugby league action. Digicel ExxonMobil Cup Chairman Adrian Chow thanked sponsors and shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming season. “On behalf of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup, I extend my heartfelt thanks to our sponsors who make this competition possible. The 2026 season promises to deliver spectacular games, skills and excitement with unforgettable moments for our incredible fans to enjoy. We are excited to see whole rugby league communities across PNG come together with rugby league spirit, and we look forward to a year of thrilling competition and passion as the game continues growing,” said Chow. With the draw now confirmed, anticipation is building for what promises to be another outstanding year of rugby league. Fans are encouraged to mark their calendars, rally behind their teams and experience the thrill of live matches as the 2026 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup gets underway.

 Papua New Guinea has reaffirmed its commitment to combating corruption at all levels, with the government highlighting sustained reforms and strengthened partnerships at the 11th Conference of States Parties (COSP11) to the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) in Doha, Qatar.Speaking to delegates from 192 countries, Minister of State for the Ministry of Administrative Services, Richard Masere said, addressing corruption remains a key national priority, stressing that Papua New Guinea’s security, stability and sustainable development must not be undermined by unchecked corruption. Minister Masere led a 21-member Papua New Guinea delegation comprising government officials, civil society representatives, the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) and members of the judiciary. The delegation’s participation was supported by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the Papua New Guinea Government and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). He told the forum that the government’s ongoing reforms have strengthened collaboration between state institutions, civil society organizations, and bilateral and multilateral development partners, both domestically and across the region. Among key initiatives highlighted were the Whistle-blower Protection Act, passed in 2020, which is currently under review to expand protections for individuals reporting corruption, and ongoing reviews of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing legislation to align with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations. Minister Masere also said Papua New Guinea has mobilized capacity-building programmes for integrity institutions, the judiciary and law enforcement agencies. These efforts have included corruption risk assessments across national and provincial government agencies, with the findings expected to inform the country’s next national anti-corruption strategy. He welcomed UNODC’s decision to establish a programme office in Papua New Guinea, saying it has strengthened engagement and cooperation in implementing UNCAC and its Implementation Review Mechanism. Officer in Charge of UNODC’s Programme Office for Papua New Guinea, Ms. Marie Jane Fatiaki, welcomed the minister’s remarks, noting that tackling corruption requires a whole-of-society approach. She said Papua New Guinea’s inclusion of civil society in its official delegations demonstrated its commitment to corruption prevention and accountability. Papua New Guinea also featured prominently in a judicial side-event at COSP titled “Judicial well-being as the foundation of judicial integrity.” Speakers included Chief Justice Sir Gibuma Gibbs Salika, Justice John Carey, and Justice Rangajeeva Wimalasena of the Supreme and National Courts. Chief Justice Salika said the attendance of Minister Masere and other government officials at the session signaled strong national support for judicial integrity. Senior Vice Chair of the American Bar Association, David Sachar, told participants he was guided by a Papua New Guinean saying: “A path is made by those who walk it.” Other PNG delegates contributed to special sessions, including Deputy Secretary of the Department of Justice and Attorney General, Mrs Josephine Pitmur, who spoke on building trust and collaboration between government and non-state actors in implementing Papua New Guinea’s National Anti-Corruption Strategy. UNODC’s anti-corruption work in Papua New Guinea is supported through the European Union-funded PNG Anti-Corruption Project and the Fairness and Accountability Now bilong Gutpla Sindaun (FANGS) Project, funded by the United States Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs.