Prime Minister James Marape, who is also the Leader of Papua New Guinea's Founding Political Party- Pangu Pati, is ready to vacate the party leadership and let the party members to decide on the best candidate to take lead.He made this announcement last week Friday, during Pangu’s two days Convention held at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby, as he left the meeting to take up his Sabbath rest. Marape said, the Party’s President and General Secretary together with him as the leader are leaving the party convention to decide on the leadership, as part of the due process and requirement of the party’s constitution. “With a lot of negativities in the public space and if you feel there’s a better person to take over from me, then, I let it be. I will be a team player as a Pangu, all the way through for the rest of my life,’ said Prime Minister. He added that, as part of the party’s reform, he has inserted a clause in the party’s constitution that a leader has no automatic right for continuity should his or her term is up as party leader. And it is always up to the party convention to decide. This is a mature system that I’ve helped set up for the party now, and I hope going forward the party has a policy that is independently and organically funneled through,” he said. Marape also added that the two-day convention was also about confirming the party’s policies to take to the 2027 National General Election, as well as their policies for the next phase. These are all based on Pangu’s Ministers and Members report on their achievements, to go through to the Presidents Report. Based on these reports the President then takes the Report to the Council Meeting where the set policies will be announced to take to the next election (2027 NGE) and beyond. “There’s a lot of things happening in Pangu Pati and I am happy with the outcome of the meetings. Although I left as they were going through the meeting’s resolution, I should indicate to all on the final outcome of the meeting on Monday afternoon,” said Marape. Prime Minister also spoke about the announcements of a few exciting new policies that really indicate a clear growth happening, whilst admitting that there are still many outstanding works that remain.

Students of Paglum Secondary School are facing an uncertain end to the school term after classes were suspended indefinitely following last week’s violence and suspected arson incident at the school in Western Highlands Province.The Department of Education (DoE) says the school was forced to close early as authorities work to restore safety and investigate the circumstances surrounding the unrest that left two students critically injured and hospitalized.Acting Education Minister Kinoka Feo said the incident had disrupted the education of hundreds of students, describing it as a regrettable setback for a school that has performed strongly in national examinations in recent years.Authorities have confirmed that police investigations are continuing, with one suspect already in custody.The Department has also indicated that disciplinary inquiries will be carried out before decisions are made on the resumption of classes.The Minister reiterated that regionalism and factional violence have no place in educational institutions and urged students to focus on their studies rather than engage in conflict.Meanwhile, local leaders including Mul-Baiyer MP Jacob Maki, have pledged support for repairs to damaged school infrastructure, while education officials work with school authorities on the next steps for students affected by the closure.The Department of Education says further directives on the reopening of the school will be announced following consultations with inspectors, school administrators and provincial education authorities.

A new partnership between Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Solomon Islands is set to strengthen prosecution services in both countries through practical cooperation under a specialized twinning program.To progress initial activities under this partnership, a delegation of three officials from the Office of the Public Prosecutor of Papua New Guinea visited Honiara to meet with key justice sector leaders. This visit served to shape the overall program, establish immediate priorities, and agree on the next steps for implementation. The initiative directly builds upon a Memorandum of Understanding signed in October 2025, which establishes a framework for ongoing training, knowledge sharing, and professional exchanges between the two legal teams. The newly formed program focuses on practical, hands-on capacity building for prosecutors, specifically targeting critical legal areas such as cybercrime, financial crimes, corruption, and family and sexual violence. Further, the collaboration will offer active professional placements for prosecutors in both countries to improve internal systems and elevate prosecution standards. Papua New Guinea’s Acting Public Prosecutor, Ms. Helen Roalakona emphasized that the initiative reflects a strong, shared commitment to results-driven cooperation. "This partnership is about building capability where it matters most, through hands-on learning, shared experience and trusted relationships. Together, we are strengthening our ability to deliver justice more effectively for our communities," said Ms. Roalakona. Legal leaders from both nations recognize that pooling resources and insights is the most effective way to address local legal complexities. Director of Public Prosecutions of Solomon Islands, Mr Andrew Ega Kelesi, welcomed the partnership and its deeply practical focus on mutual development. "Despite being different countries, the Pacific Region, especially Melanesians, we have unique challenges, but very similar. It’s important to enable this partnership for both offices to share the challenge, share the action, share the experience, and look at ways in which we can both improve," said Mr. Kelesi. This regional legal initiative is backed by institutional support from Australia through dedicated regional law and justice programs. Specifically, the collaboration receives assistance from the Australia–Papua New Guinea Law and Justice Partnership alongside the Australia-Solomon Islands Partnership for Justice. Ultimately, the successful Honiara visit highlights a growing momentum behind regional alliances that deliver tangible system improvements, while reinforcing a shared, long-term commitment to upholding the rule of law across the Pacific.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) has booked their place at the OFC U-19 Men's Championship 2026 in Samoa after producing a commanding 5-1 victory over the Cook Islands to finish top of the qualifying tournament.Heading into the decisive clash, Papua New Guinea needed only a draw to secure qualification, while the hosts faced a must-win situation. However, the visitors left no doubt about their intentions, taking control early and delivering a clinical performance to seal their spot at the regional championship. Papua New Guinea laid the foundation for victory with two goals inside the opening 20 minutes. Ruel Api opened the scoring in the 15th minute, reacting quickest to a loose ball outside the penalty area before unleashing a long-range strike that beat the Cook Islands goalkeeper. The early breakthrough settled Papua New Guinea, who soon began to dominate possession and create further opportunities through standout performers David Tita, Benjamin Kila and the captain, Nalau Moses. Just four minutes later, Tita turned provider for the second goal. After collecting a long pass from Bomecge Basananuc, the forward surged toward the penalty area and delivered a low cross for Moses, who calmly finished to double the lead. Cook Islands attempted to fight their way back into the contest before halftime. Maui Denny's dangerous free-kick found Kima Webb, whose header drifted narrowly over the crossbar. Denny and Josh Barrymore-Udan continued to threaten from set-pieces and long-range efforts, but Papua New Guinea's defence remained resolute. The visitors extended their advantage immediately after the restart. Basananuc again played a key role, releasing David Tita with a perfectly weighted pass. The prolific forward made no mistake, firing home in the 46th minute to score his fourth goal of the qualifying campaign. Cook Islands continued to battle and eventually found a breakthrough in the 80th minute. Charlie Noovao-Martin rose highest to meet a curling delivery from Denny, powering a header into the net to give the home crowd something to cheer. Any hopes of a late comeback were extinguished as Papua New Guinea finished strongly. John Millis burst into the penalty area in the 87th minute, creating the opportunity for substitute Benjamin Sumabru to add a fourth goal. Sumabru then helped set up the final strike deep into stoppage time, providing the pass for Jaru Eron, who finished confidently to complete the 5-1 rout. The emphatic victory sends Papua New Guinea through to the OFC U-19 Men's Championship 2026 in Samoa, where they will join New Caledonia, Samoa and Solomon Islands in Group B. Meanwhile, the Cook Islands' spirited qualifying campaign comes to an end despite a determined effort throughout the tournament. Scorers Papua New Guinea: Ruel Api (15'), Nalau Moses (19'), David Tita (46'), Benjamin Sumabru (87'), Jaru Eron (90+5') Cook Islands: Charlie Noovao-Martin (80') Half-time: Papua New Guinea 2-0 Cook Islands

The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) has officially launched and handed over four custom-built 32-foot passenger vessels to improve transport, safety and access to essential services for Bougainville’s remote atoll communities.The vessels were handed over by ABG Minister for Fisheries and Member for the Atolls, Amanda Masono, under a K2.5 million project funded through the Climate Change and Development Authority’s (CCDA) Building Resilience to Climate Change (BRCC) initiative.The project was developed in response to climate vulnerability assessments conducted in 2021, which identified maritime isolation as a major challenge facing the atoll communities.The vessels will serve the communities of Fead (Nuguria), Carterets (Tuloun), Mortlock (Takuu) and Tasman (Amotu), providing safer and more reliable transport between the islands and mainland Bougainville."For too long, our atoll communities have been on the absolute frontline of the global climate crisis, risking their lives on unpredictable seas," said Minister Masono during her keynote address."Today, we declare that our people are not forgotten, this K2.5 million investment translates climate policy into real-world, life-saving mobility."The vessels are equipped with twin 200-horsepower inboard engines, navigation systems and open-sea safety equipment, enabling them to operate safely in the challenging conditions of Bougainville waters.They will support emergency medical evacuations, student transportation and the movement of fisheries and agricultural products, improving access to services and economic opportunities for atoll residents.To ensure immediate operation of the vessels, Minister Masono also oversaw the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between the CCDA and the ABG Administration.Under a three-month interim arrangement commencing on 14th June 2026, the ABG Department of Transport and Utilities will serve as the Interim Operating Authority until the finalization of the Bougainville Small Craft Act.Operations will be managed by a team of 16 trained personnel under a rotational system designed to maintain continuous service delivery and reduce crew fatigue.Revenue generated through passenger fares and commercial hires will be managed through dedicated Small Craft Revenue and Expenditure accounts administered by the Department of Finance to support the long-term sustainability of the vessels."Ownership brings a sacred duty of stewardship," Minister Masono emphasized.“These are community assets. We must enforce safety manifests, prioritize routine maintenance, and protect these boats so they can protect our children and grandchildren."Minister Masono also thanked the Climate Change and Development Authority for its partnership and support in delivering the project, describing the investment as a practical example of climate resilience that directly improves the lives of Bougainville’s most vulnerable communities.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) has announced the passage this week of the Bougainville Mining (Amendment) Act 2026 by the Bougainville House of Representatives.The amendment Act establishes a special legislative framework for the orderly and accelerated redevelopment of previously operating large-scale mines in circumstances where such redevelopment is determined by the Bougainville Executive Council (BEC) to be in the public interest of Bougainville. The Act also provides for the grant of a Large-Scale Mining Lease to an Eligible Holder in accordance with the provisions of the Act.Importantly, the Act does not remove or weaken the core principles, protections and safeguards contained in the Bougainville Mining Act 2015 and related laws. Landowner participation, environmental approvals, compensation arrangements, consultation processes and other statutory requirements and protections remain mandatory under the law.The legislation also strengthens landowner participation through equity ownership provisions and ensures that responsibility for historical liabilities remains with those responsible for those liabilities.President and Minister for Mining and Petroleum, Ishmael Toroama, said the reform is the culmination of extensive consultation and dialogue undertaken over the past four years, including the Panguna Mine Dialogue process, consultations with landowners and community leaders, and broader ABG economic development consultations."This legislation has not emerged overnight. It is the result of years of consultation, discussion and reflection involving landowners, communities, leaders and stakeholders across Bougainville.""It reflects the aspirations expressed by our people for greater participation in resource development, stronger Bougainville ownership and a more secure economic future that can commence to be realised today.""The passage of this legislation also demonstrates the maturity of our institutions and our ability as Bougainvilleans to develop laws that respond to our own circumstances, priorities and aspirations."A copy of the certified Bougainville Mining (Amendment) Act 2026 can be accessed from the following link: https://abg.gov.pg/.../Bougainville_Mining_%28Amendment.

Bougainville President His Excellency (H.E) Ishmael Toroama has reaffirmed Bougainville's commitment to its political aspirations, economic development and continued peacebuilding efforts, while calling for a greater understanding of Bougainville's history and the democratic will of its people.President Toroama delivered his statement to the Bougainville House of Representatives this week and reflected on recent discussions in the National Parliament regarding the 2019 Bougainville Referendum and the findings of the National Government's Bi-partisan Committee on Bougainville Matters.He said the discussions highlighted differing views on Bougainville's history, governance, and political future.“Our history speaks for itself. Our aspirations for self-determination existed well before the idea of an independent Papua New Guinea came into being. For more than a century our people have expressed our aspirations for independence,” Toroama said.President Toroama said Bougainville's aspirations for self-determination are deeply rooted in its history, cultural identity and the experiences of its people over many generations.He emphasized that Bougainville's political aspirations were not driven by convenience or political expediency, but by the sacrifices, resilience and determination of its people to shape their own future.The President also addressed concerns often raised regarding Bougainville's readiness, including economic self-reliance, security and governance.He acknowledged that while Bougainville continues to rely on inter-governmental and development partner support, the ABG is focused on building its own revenue base and creating long-term economic opportunities for its people."The reason for my silence is because I do not want this government to continue to waste time complaining. Instead, we must invest our time and energy into creating our own revenue. We have already embarked on this path, and we will soon reap the benefits of our efforts," President Toroama said.On peace and security, the President reaffirmed the government's commitment to engaging all Bougainvilleans through peaceful means and strengthening unity across the region. He noted that Bougainville remains one of the most peaceful regions in Papua New Guinea and that peacebuilding efforts remain a priority of the government.President Toroama also reiterated that the Bougainville Peace Agreement remains the foundation of the political process and emphasized that autonomy was established as a transitional arrangement to support Bougainville's post-conflict recovery while preparing for a future political settlement.“The most important point that Bougainville and Papua New Guinea must remember is that autonomy was never intended to be our final destination.”“Autonomy was intended to be a transitional arrangement to allow Bougainville to rebuild after the war while preparing for a future political settlement,” he said.“Many of the so-called failures of autonomy stem from the fact that Bougainville has been rebuilding a post-conflict society under an arrangement that was intended to be transitional and not in any way permanent.”He called on leaders and stakeholders to fully understand Bougainville's history, the contributions of its people to nation-building, and the sacrifices made throughout the conflict and peace process."If there is to be a genuine understanding and lasting peace, it must begin with honestly acknowledging our history and respecting the democratic will of our people," he said.In concluding his address, President Toroama urged Bougainvilleans to remain united, resilient and optimistic about the future, noting the accelerated pace of development experienced across Bougainville over the past 12 months."There are many good things happening in Bougainville so we must look forward to them. The last 12 months alone have seen development hit an accelerated pace. This time we are in the driver's seat of development so let us all stand together and stand fast," President Toroama said.

PNG Gardener has donated K90,000 to Pacific Adventist University (PAU) through the PNG Gardener Education Fund, providing much-needed financial assistance to high-performing students struggling to settle their tuition fees.The education fund was established a decade ago through a partnership between PNG Gardener and PAU to support deserving students facing financial challenges. The initiative helps students continue their studies and complete their qualifications without the burden of outstanding school fees.As part of its ongoing commitment to education, PNG Gardener has pledged to contribute K50,000 annually to the scholarship fund. The funding will be managed by PAU's administration and staff, who will oversee the selection and support of eligible students.The program targets hardworking Papua New Guinean students who have demonstrated academic commitment but require financial assistance to complete their certificates, diplomas, and degree programs.A PNG Gardener representative said the company is proud to continue working with PAU to ensure students are not prevented from graduating because of financial hardship."We are very proud to partner with PAU to ensure students who are unable to pay their school fees are given the opportunity to complete their studies and graduate," the representative said.The representative also thanked PAU's Vice-Chancellor, management, and staff for their continued support of the scholarship program."I want to thank the Vice-Chancellor and all the management and staff of PAU for partnering with PNG Gardener on this scholarship fund, which is helping deserving Papua New Guinean students achieve the highest levels of education," the representative added.The annual contribution reinforces PNG Gardener's commitment to investing in education and supporting the next generation of Papua New Guinea's workforce and leaders.

Leaders and members of the Bobo'gabi and Ai'naba clans from Apanaipi Village in Ward 15 of the Mekeo Rural Local Level Government met with Minister for Energy and Member for Kairuku, Hon. Peter Namea Isoaimo, in Port Moresby today to discuss concerns surrounding the demarcation of the Apanaipi Constituency.The delegation, represented by Mr. Patrick Aga and Mr. Steven Aidaboe, expressed concerns over the boundary lines between Apanaipi in Kairuku District, Central Province, and Miaru in Gulf Province. They said the issue has caused confusion and uncertainty among communities living along the border areas.The leaders appealed to Minister Isoaimo to assist in facilitating a fair and transparent process to address the dispute and provide clarity on the constituency boundaries.In response, Minister Isoaimo acknowledged the concerns raised and encouraged the community leaders to organize themselves and gather all relevant documents and evidence relating to the matter.He also requested that all parties involved agree on a suitable date for a broader stakeholder meeting where the issues can be formally presented, discussed, and addressed.Minister Isoaimo stressed the importance of constructive dialogue, cooperation, and proper documentation in resolving boundary-related matters peacefully.Participants described the meeting as a positive first step toward finding a resolution to the long-standing concerns over the border demarcation between Apanaipi and Miaru.The proposed stakeholder meeting is expected to provide an opportunity for all affected parties to present their views and work towards a mutually acceptable outcome.

In a significant boost to community healthcare, the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) and Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) have joined forces to enhance maternity services across the city.Operating under a current Memorandum of Understanding, this strategic partnership has fully transformed the Labor Ward at the Metoreia Urban Health Centre.The facility is now staffed around the clock by trained midwives from both health organizations and is equipped with new delivery beds to ensure mothers have access to reliable care right in their neighborhood.Additionally, specialist doctors from PMGH visit the clinic every week, bringing expert medical attention directly to the community level and saving families from making long trips to the main hospital.This collaborative framework has already yielded impressive results, dramatically increasing Metoreia's capacity from just a few births a day to an average of nine to eleven babies delivered daily.By managing more localized births, the health center is successfully relieving severe overcrowding at PMGH's main maternity ward.The Deputy Director of Medical Services at PMGH, Dr. Henao Asa, highlighted the broader vision behind this initiative, stating, “Our vision at PMGH is to be the ultimate provider of quality healthcare for Papua New Guinea.”He explained that, “This partnership with NCDPHA allows us to extend specialist services into the community, reducing congestion at PMGH while ensuring mothers can deliver safely at Metoreia.”Dr. Asa further emphasized that, “With weekly specialist support and trained midwives, we are committed to bringing healthcare services closer to families and achieving the national health plan goals of leaving no one behind.”The initiative reflects a shared commitment to upholding the dignity and safety of women during childbirth.Chief Executive Officer of NCDPHA, Dr. Robin Oge, echoed these sentiments, asserting, “Every mother deserves safe, dignified care when giving birth.”He noted that by working closely with the hospital management, they are expanding essential services so that women across Port Moresby have a dependable local alternative for giving birth.“This partnership is about bringing care closer to our people and ensuring no mother is left behind,” Dr. Oge stated, adding, “I sincerely acknowledge PMGH CEO Dr. Paki Molumi and his management team for their strong commitment and continued collaboration with NCDPHA to strengthen health services for our communities.”With the 24-hour service now fully operational, expectant mothers in the capital are highly encouraged to utilize the Metoreia Urban Health Centre Labor Ward for safe deliveries, comprehensive postnatal care, and ongoing medical support for their newborns.

Students from the Divine Word University Madang Students Association (DWUMSA) kicked off a provincial outreach program on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, by donating books and conducting an educational awareness session at Transgogol Secondary School.The initiative aimed to provide Grade 11 and 12 students with clear information on how to navigate the tertiary application process and secure places at universities and colleges across Papua New Guinea. The DWUMSA team detailed the entry requirements and academic programs available at the DWU Madang Campus, while offering practical advice on how to correctly fill out school leaver forms.To provide the high schoolers with even broader post-secondary options, the team was joined by Advent, a former Madang Technical College student and current leader of the Madang Tertiary Students Union, who shared insights into technical training pathways.The outreach also drew support from university students representing various other provinces, fostering a strong sense of national camaraderie.Organizers expressed deep appreciation for this diverse student involvement, noting that the collaboration reflects a growing spirit of unity. “This is the time we must unite as Papua New Guineans and stand for change."This little collaboration can lead to bigger things later,” one DWUMSA student remarked.Beyond academic guidance, the initiative heavily focused on literacy, made possible by a donation of reading materials from the Friendship Library. Transgogol Secondary's administration, including Principal Mr. Iven and Deputy Administration Mr. Marib warmly welcomed the visiting group and thanked the library and the university students for providing resources that will directly support student learning and literacy.Following the academic presentations, the university students led an interactive discussion on critical social issues facing today's youth, such as drug and alcohol abuse, peer pressure, and the cultural importance of Gutpela Sindaun.The Transgogol students engaged enthusiastically, asking questions and participating in group discussions about their futures. Transgogol Secondary's Deputy Academic teacher, Mr. Teisua praised the visit as timely and highly relevant to the needs of the student body.“Our students need this kind of guidance. Many are unsure about what course offered in the Divine Word University and life after Grade 12. This helps them see what is possibly make the right choices when it comes to apply to secure a space in universities or colleges,” Mr. Teisua noted.The successful event at Transgogol Secondary marks the official launch of a wider community campaign by DWUMSA, which plans to visit several other secondary schools throughout Madang Province to conduct similar information sessions.The organizers extended their formal gratitude to the Transgogol teaching staff and student body for their hospitality and for making the program a success.The day concluded with group photographs and words of encouragement, with both institutions committing to a lasting partnership aimed at fostering student development and academic success in the region.

Commemorating World Oceans Day on June 8, 2026, Oro Province Governor Gary Juffa issued a passionate call to protect Papua New Guinea's vast maritime territory, emphasizing that the health of the marine environment dictates the prosperity of the nation. "For countless coastal and island communities, the sea is their garden, highway, marketplace, and source of sustenance," Juffa stated, noting that marine resources provide food security and cultural continuity for hundreds of thousands of Papua New Guineans. However, he warned that these delicate ecosystems face severe threats from climate change, pollution, illegal fishing, and the dangerous pressures of commercial resource extraction.Chief among these threats is the international push for deep-sea mining, driven by foreign entities the Governor described as "profit and greed merchants." Reminding the nation of the Solwara One project, a costly failure that stripped PNG taxpayers of over K300 million, Juffa strongly cautioned against future seabed exploitation."Humanity's knowledge of deep ocean ecosystems remains extremely limited," Juffa warned, stressing that the consequences could result in irreversible habitat destruction and the extinction of undiscovered species. He urged the government to strictly apply the precautionary principle, insisting that the burden of environmental proof must rest entirely on those pushing to exploit the ocean rather than those trying to protect it.Compounding these environmental dangers is a severe lack of sovereign control over the country's waters, which has transformed the Pacific into a haven for transnational criminal syndicates engaged in trafficking and illegal fishing. Juffa expressed deep concern that foreign investors, whom he likened to "modern-day pirates", plunder hundreds of millions of dollars' worthof marine resources, while not a single operating fishing vessel is owned by a Papua New Guinean. "Conservation without enforcement is merely an aspiration," Juffa declared, criticizing the nation's outdated surveillance technology for failing to track the "dark ships" that illegally raid PNG's tuna breeding grounds. To reverse this trend, the Governor called for urgent investments in satellite tracking, modern patrol vessels, stronger legislation, and tougher maritime penalties.Governor Juffa concluded his address by championing the traditional knowledge systems and customary marine stewardship that have successfully protected PNG's waters for generations. He urged all elected leaders to fulfil their duty to safeguard coastal communities across regions like Milne Bay, Manus, New Ireland, East Sepik, Bougainville, and West New Britain. "Future generations will not judge us by how many tons of minerals we extracted from the seabed," Juffa stated. "They will judge us by whether we protected the oceans that sustain life itself."To secure a lasting legacy, he requested that all future conservation commitments be backed by strict national sovereignty, robust scientific integrity, and practical enforcement.