A newly formed charity group called the ‘Hands For All,” has begun a voluntary voter education initiative in Port Moresby, aimed at promoting informed voting and discouraging corruption ahead of future national elections especially the coming 2027 National Election.The group is made of three young educated young men in ATS, led by the group’s president, Abraham Mondo, alongside members Moxcy John and Frank Kua. The group recently carried out its first awareness session within their local community in ATS, Moresby Northeast Port Moresby and plans to expand the program across all electorates in the city and eventually into rural parts of the country. Mr. Mondo said the initiative aligns with the core purpose of Hands For All, which focuses on community education and civic responsibility. He confirmed the organization is newly established and is currently in the process of formal registration. He said the group’s focus is on educating citizens particularly young people and the less educated about their democratic rights and responsibilities, including the importance of understanding the voting process and the purpose of elections. “We took this initiative to educate our people, especially here in Port Moresby settlement area, and if possible, around PNG,” Mr. Mondo said. “We want to help our citizens understand democratic rights and avoid corruption when it comes to general elections.” He said the program aims to encourage voters to reflect on leadership choices and to reject practices such as vote-selling, which he described as damaging to the country’s democratic integrity. “We always sell our integrity when it comes to elections.” “We sell our vote for money, and that is not right.” “As citizens of this democratic nation, we must respect the voting process and have dignity when we vote.” Mr. Mondo said the group is not affiliated with any political party, government agency, non-government organization, or the National Electoral Commission, and that the initiative is entirely self-funded and voluntary. “We are not sponsored by the government, nor by the non-government organizations (NGOs), and not by the Electoral Commission.” “We are doing this on our own to advocate for our people and our communities.” He said the first awareness session held within their local community, was well received and encouraged the group to continue. “We did one in our own community, and it was awesome. People loved it.” “That is why we are confident to do it again.” Moreover, Mr. Mondo said that Hands For All plans to conduct further sessions across Port Moresby’s three electorates, with the long-term goal of reaching rural communities in other provinces where access to civic education is limited. “People need this information, and we hope to go into rural areas as well, because understanding why we vote and who we vote for is very important.” Furthermore, the group hopes to roll out additional awareness sessions within the year as part of its broader community outreach efforts so that the communities in Port Moresby are well educated for Next Year’s National Education.

After a breakthrough run to the Port Moresby Basketball Association (PMBA) Men’s Grand Final in 2025 and despite the loss, the Equalizers Basketball Club is now laying the groundwork for the 2026 season, continuing its focus on community, youth development and purpose beyond the scoreboard.Club co-founder and President, Tirimahn Masi confirmed that now in their third season as a club, they're more into building the teams foundation for both the men’s and the women’s divisions. He also shared that the teams haven’t gone into formal training yet because both teams are now taking part in community games, team bonding and seeking sponsorship support ahead of the upcoming competition season. “Training hasn’t started yet as right now; we’re actively looking for possible sponsors for 2026. Once the training schedule is confirmed, we’ll get straight into business,” Masi said.A recent social media post by the club showed the teams having a team bonding, catching up with friends and family following a local Christmas basketball competition at Bomana. Teams from the De La Salle community registered for the event, and players from the Equalizers were seen joining other sides, adding to the competitive but friendly atmosphere.“We were surprised to see our teammates playing with other teams,” Masi said. “But it made the competition fun. After the games, we decided to have a barbecue together. That’s just how the team is.” He said the sense of unity remains at the core of the club, describing the team as family. “The team literally feels like a family, and that is why our main aim has never really been about winning. It’s about giving opportunities to young talents, exposing their hidden skills, and hopefully one day seeing one of them represent PNG.” As Masi prepares to be away for studies, the club’s leadership transition has become one of the key agendas for 2026. He confirmed that discussions are underway among the executive members to identify the right person to take on the role of club president. “There are a few people in the community who show promise, but we’re still looking for the right person,” Masi said. “With Agnes Urupua, our vice president, and Mr. James Linen Pomat, our team manager, I trust that whoever steps in will be well guided.” Masi added that his personal hope is to see a young leader rise from within the community. “I want a young person to step up, dedicate their time, and really take the team to the next level. With the right mentorship, this club can grow even further.” Beyond basketball, the Equalizers continue to serve as a platform for youth development and education. The club is actively conducting awareness sessions on youth related issues using the 5Rs framework ‘Respect, Responsibility, Relationships, Resilience, and Rights’. This work is supported through an ongoing partnership with ChildFund PNG, with several players and officials serving as peer educators after completing the ChildFund Impact Project, which concluded last year. As preparations for the 2026 PMBA season continue, the Equalizers remain committed to growing basketball in Bomana and the wider North-East electorate, not just as a sport, but as a positive pathway for young people.

The Tapini Highway, a critical lifeline for the people of Goilala District of Central province, continues to deteriorate, raising serious concerns over access, safety, and government commitment to rural connectivity.The road branches off the Hiritano Highway at Arapokina in Kairuku District and stretches approximately 118 kilometres through Kuni Local Level Government areas before reaching Tapini. It cuts across some of the most challenging terrain in Central Province, winding through steep mountains, deep valleys, swampy sections, and crossing fast-flowing rivers that frequently become impassable during heavy rain. Built shortly after Independence during the Chan Government by the late Louis Mona, the Tapini Highway has existed for over five decades with minimal upgrading. Despite its age and importance, the road has seen little structural improvement, leaving it vulnerable to washouts, bridge failures, and long periods of isolation for communities that depend on it. For the people of Goilala, the highway remains their main connection to essential services, markets, health care, education, and government administration. Any disruption along the route effectively cuts off the district from the rest of Central Province. In 2010, the road was officially declared a National Road by Dr Puka Temu during his tenure as Acting Prime Minister, a move that raised expectations for proper funding and long-term upgrading. Since then, successive political leaders have raised the condition of the Tapini Highway in Parliament and other national forums, calling for sustained investment. However, those calls have yet to translate into meaningful improvements on the ground. Funding allocations have remained inconsistent and insufficient to elevate the road to the standard expected of a national highway. During the current term of Parliament, renewed efforts were made to address the road’s worsening condition, with submissions directed to the Works and Highways Ministry. Progress stalled following the passing of Works and Highways Minister, the late Solan Mirisim, leaving many of the proposed interventions unresolved.K20 million was allocated for works on the road to be implemented by Construct Ocean Limited at roughly K5 million per year. While this funding covered only limited sections, it fell short of addressing the highway’s broader structural challenges.With bridges washed away and large sections increasingly unsafe, local leaders are now calling on the National Government to provide emergency relief funding for immediate repairs, while also committing to long-term rehabilitation of the route. There are also growing calls for clarity on the implementation of the Connect PNG program in Central Province. Leaders are urging the government to clearly state which roads qualify for funding under the program and how Goilala’s road network fits into national connectivity plans. Goilala District currently relies on three main access roads: 1. The Tapini Road, which services Tapini and Guari LLGs and is planned to extend toward Wau-Waria. 2. Tolukuma Road, already connected through support from Tolukuma Minerals and the Mineral Resources Authority.3. Duby Road, which remains under construction and is yet to connect Woitape LLG. Beyond these, several feeder roads are needed to link remote communities across the district. However, funding constraints have slowed progress, limiting access across provincial borders stretching from Kerema in Gulf Province, through Central and Morobe, to Sohe in Oro Province across the Owen Stanley Range. Infrastructure development, particularly roads, remains one of the most effective ways for governments to improve service delivery and economic participation in rural districts. Without reliable road access, entire communities remain locked out of development opportunities. Local leaders are now appealing to the Central Provincial Administration to fully exercise its mandated responsibilities, ensuring all arms of government are actively delivering services at the ward, LLG, and district levels. The condition of the Tapini Highway, they say, is not just a road issue but it is a test of whether national development commitments reach the people who need them most.

The PNG Lewas claimed a thrilling one-run victory over New South Wales Country Women in the opening round, before falling by four wickets to Victoria Country Women in Round Two of the Toyota Australian Country Cricket Championships (TACCC) on Saturday January 3rd at Angaston Oval.ROUND ONE: PNG LEWAS VS NSW COUNTRY WOMEN Batting first, NSW Country Women scored 98 runs while losing nine wickets in their 20 overs. In reply, the PNG Lewas chased down the target, posting 99 runs while losing nine wickets in 19.3 overs. With three balls remaining and one wicket in hand, the Lewas edged out NSW to secure a dramatic opening-round victory. Key contributors for the Lewas included batswoman Hollan Doriga, who scored 27 runs off 17 balls, and all-rounder Henao Thomas, who delivered an impressive bowling performance, taking two wickets from four overs while conceding just 21 runs. ROUND TWO: PNG LEWAS VS VICTORIA COUNTRY WOMEN Returning to the field against Victoria Country Women in Round Two at Angaston Oval on Saturday afternoon, the PNG Lewas were unable to maintain their winning momentum, falling short by four wickets. Batting first, the Lewas posted 103 runs in 20 overs, with captain Brenda Tau leading the team with 40 runs off 40 balls, including six boundaries. Konio Oala bounced back from a duck in Round One to contribute 21 runs. In reply, Victoria Country Women chased down the target with 107 runs in 19.4 overs, securing a four-wicket victory with two balls remaining. Pauke Siaka and Henao Thomas led the Lewas bowling attack, taking two and one wickets respectively, supported by disciplined bowling from the rest of the unit. Despite the loss, the Lewas showed resilience and determination, with several players delivering promising performances ahead of the remaining rounds of the 2025/26 Summer tournament.

The National St John Ambulance (NStJA) Service is planning a major expansion in 2026 by establishing its first operation in the Highlands region in the Unggai-Bena District of the Eastern Highlands province. The organization already operates in Port Moresby, Central Province, Morobe (Lae), and Kokopo. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Tane Kai said the move represents a significant milestone for the service.“We’ll be expanding into Unggai-Bena, which I’m really excited about. It’s the first time we’re going into the Highlands. We’ll be expanding our programs, conducting more training, and delivering first aid education in schools,” he said. Mr. Kai said education and professional growth for ambulance officers remains a top priority. NStJA will focus on upskilling current officers while recruiting trainee dispatchers and ambulance officers, including internal staff and reservists. “We have a big education program planned. We’ll be upskilling many of our ambulance officers, providing more opportunities for growth within National St John, and expanding our recruitment campaign for both training ambulance officers and trainee dispatchers,” he explained. The organization also plans technological upgrades, including a connected electronic patient record system for all ambulances. The system aims to link directly to hospitals to improve patient care and efficiency. “Connectivity is always a challenge, but getting all ambulances and crews using electronic patient records is essential. In the best-case scenario, these records would link to hospitals as well. Full implementation may take a few years, but it will help us capture more data, improve population health tracking, and enhance our services nationwide,” he noted. Mr. Kai addressed safety concerns for ambulance officers, emphasizing the public’s role in protecting emergency teams. “It’s up to every Papua New Guinean to decide whether they want a qualified ambulance service. If you want emergency services, please respect these teams and call out any bad behavior. We want our officers to return safely to their families at the end of every shift,” he said. He praised the dedication of ambulance officers across the country. “These officers work long shifts, study hard, and know their communities inside out. They drop everything, day or night, to help someone in need. That dedication is inspiring and motivates me to support them to deliver the best service possible.” Mr. Kai concluded by wishing all Papua New Guineans a happy New Year.

Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) for NCD and Central, Benjamin Turi, has credited strong leadership for both NCD and Central Province Governors and the cooperation between both PPC with support units and community watch volunteers for a largely peaceful festive season in both provinces.Commander Turi said the calm outcome during Christmas and New Year celebrations was not accidental, but the result of coordinated efforts by provincial leaders, police commanders, and the public. He said political leadership and senior police oversight played a key role in setting expectations for peaceful celebrations across the National Capital District and Central Province. "I want to thank the two Governors, the elected leaders, the two police bosses for NCD and Central Provinces, PPC Salle and Met. Supt. Simatab, the police station commanders, Police Section Heads, each individual police officer from the command, support units, our Operational Units, Dog Unit, Mobile Squads, Water Police, the community watch volunteers, village leaders, parents, the media and everyone who said a word to encourage individuals to celebrate peacefully," Commander Turi said. He said the festive period, particularly Christmas, was generally quiet in both provinces. Commander Turi confirmed that two deaths were reported in the Sabama area of NCD during the Christmas period. Apart from these incidents, he said there were no major cases of widespread violence. He said Central Province recorded a quiet Christmas, with police reporting no serious disturbances. Commander Turi said New Year celebrations also passed without major incidents, although police did respond to a number of alcohol-related cases. He said drunken individuals were involved in fights among themselves, resulting in injuries and damage to property. These cases, he said, are currently under police investigation. He explained that alcohol continues to be the main cause of public disorder during festive seasons, despite ongoing police efforts to control its misuse. He said police had taken enforcement action, but some members of the public chose to ignore the law. Commander Turi said community cooperation was critical in preventing situations from escalating, particularly in high-risk areas. He said police observations showed that most disturbances occurred in settlements and suburban areas, where community watch volunteers and local leaders worked closely with police officers. He also explained that proactive policing measures helped reduce incidents across the command. Commander Turi said police shut down illegal liquor outlets, arrested individuals producing homebrew, and accepted voluntary surrender of homebrew from members of the public. He said these actions demonstrated the value of police working in partnership with communities. "I saw teamwork displayed in this festive season. We are a small command; if we share and communicate with each other, we will not cause harm to others but encourage everyone to respect each other… The real meaning of police working in partnership with the communities was displayed. I thank you all for that," Commander Turi said. Police say they will continue community-based policing and alcohol-control operations in 2026 to maintain public safety in both provinces.

Unlike a normal emergency call made through 111, the National St John Ambulance Service (NSTJA) responded to a wave for help while attending another incident.Early this morning, ambulance officers were responding to a minor altercation involving intoxicated youths in the Downtown area.At around 2:35am, while returning from the scene, officers were flagged down by a man standing in the middle of the road near the Downtown Waterfront, close to the HMPNGS BASILISK PNG Defence Force Landing Craft Base.The man was identified as Simon Tavio, who told officers that his mother was seriously ill and urgently needed medical attention. Ambulance officers found a woman lying on the grass nearby.The patient was immediately assisted and transported to the Seven Mile Clinic. However, the clinic was closed, so she was rushed to the Port Moresby General Hospital Emergency Department via Three- Mile.Mr. Tavio later identified the patient as his mother, Nancy Nareke, aged 45, a nurse from Kainantu General Hospital in Eastern Highlands Province.According to her son, Ms. Nareke had been experiencing pain and bleeding for about six months, which she managed while undergoing treatment in Kainantu. She later travelled to Port Moresby in early December 2025 for church activities.Her condition worsened approximately 12 hours earlier while attending a Seventh Day Adventist camp in Bautama, Central Province, prompting the family to seek urgent medical help by taxi.National St John Ambulance officer Daniel Afuti confirmed that hospital staff have since diagnosed Ms. Nareke with cervical cancer and a cervical ulcer, and that she had been receiving ongoing treatment in Kainantu.

The National St John Ambulance Service has temporarily limited its ambulance services in Lae city following security concerns overnight.The decision was made after reports of attempted attacks in some settlement areas and an assessment of the safety risks facing ambulance crews.St John Ambulance says, for now, ambulances will only respond to life-threatening and high-risk emergencies within main Lae town areas and along major roads. This is to protect both patients and ambulance staff.The ambulance call centre remains open and will continue to provide first-aid advice over the phone. In cases where an ambulance cannot be safely sent, callers may be advised to find safe alternative transport to nearby health facilities.St John Ambulance has asked the public for understanding and support, urging people to celebrate responsibly, avoid violence, and help ensure emergency services can operate safely.The situation is being closely monitored, and further updates will be provided when available.

Port Moresby city entered 2026 with less violence than previous years, a shift from the usual levels of disorder seen during past New Year periods.For the first 45 minutes after midnight, the city remained relatively calm, with no major incidents reported despite ongoing noise from celebrations in different parts of the city. However, that changed shortly after when emergency services received a fire alert call.The fire was reported near a fence at the roadside market at 3-mile Foodland next to the PNG Motors Dealership, raising concerns that nearby cars and buildings could be affected. The fire crews responded immediately and contained the blaze before it could spread further.While some materials near the fence were burnt, the fire did not spread to nearby buildings or vehicles.Emergency responders said the quick response prevented what could have become a serious incident in the early hours of New Year's Day.Police and fire units remain on alert as celebrations continue, noting that while the start to the year was noisy, it was relatively peaceful.

Police at Five Mile in Port Moresby city have stepped up enforcement against loitering around the National Housing Corporation (NHC) flats as part of ongoing efforts to protect residents during the festive season.The move followed reports of people loitering unlawfully around occupied NHC houses, prompting an immediate response from police units. Nine individuals, four women and five men were arrested and later charged under the Summary Offences Act. National Capital District Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab confirmed the arrests, saying the suspects were charged for loitering, unlawfully being on premises, and playing an unlawful game. “These houses are occupied by families,” Met. Supt. Simatab said. “People have a right to peace in their homes. Loitering around residential areas creates fear, noise, and disorder, and police will act when complaints are made.” He said police patrols have been increased across the city during the festive period, with officers responding directly to reports from residents and Community Watch volunteers. “Loitering may seem minor, but when alcohol is involved, it quickly turns into noise pollution, public disturbances, and fights,” he said. “That is why we are enforcing the law early, before situations escalate.” Met. Supt. Simatab praised police officers for their visibility and quick response, noting that alcohol-related offences continue to rise during holiday celebrations. “We want people to enjoy the season, but celebrations must be responsible,” he said. “Avoid loitering, respect others, and cooperate with police when approached.” Police units will remain on patrol throughout New Year’s Eve, with a strong focus on preventing loitering and public disturbances in residential areas. Community Watch volunteers were also acknowledged for assisting police and helping maintain order within their communities. As the city prepares to welcome the New Year, police say stopping loitering early is one of the key steps to ensuring a safe and peaceful celebration for everyone.

Media Council Papua New Guinea (MCPNG) President Mr. Neville Choi says journalists are not above the law and must uphold the same legal standards as any citizen. His statement follows the arrest of a journalist caught drinking in public on Sunday 28th December in Port Moresby city, confirmed by National Capital District Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab.Police reports stated the journalist was at Five Mile, Kanage Street, around 2:30PM, consuming alcohol on the roadside with a friend. The journalist initially resisted arrest, but officers used reasonable force to detain him and transport him to the police station.Once sober, the journalist was formally charged and taken to Boroko Police Station, where he had the opportunity to post bail.While emphasizing the critical public role journalists play, Mr. Choi stressed that accountability and personal responsibility remain central to the profession. He noted that the Media Council respects the rule of law and believes journalists should maintain high ethical standards, both in their work and personal conduct, given the public trust and scrutiny inherent in the role. “Journalists are no different from ordinary citizens. Laws are laws. If you break the law and you are caught, you must face the law. As journalists, we report on accountability, so we must also be accountable ourselves.” Mr. Choi explained that the Council’s Code of Ethics guides professional conduct, but public expectations extend beyond the newsroom. Because of their visibility and influence, journalists are often held to a higher standard. He added that many journalists contribute positively to their communities outside work, strengthening public trust and respect for the profession.

The Community Watch program in Hisiu Village, Kairuku Local Level Government area of Central Province, is already producing positive outcomes, with villagers voluntarily surrendering homebrew-producing equipment following sustained awareness and community engagement.The progress follows an awareness visit on 17 December by senior police officials, led by NCD and Central Provinces Commander and Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police Benjamin Turi, alongside Central Provincial Police Commander Chief Inspector Joseph Salle. During the visit, police met with village leaders to discuss law and order concerns and formally introduce the Community Watch initiative. The program empowers village leaders and volunteers to work closely with police to address crime at the community level. Following the launch, leaders and Community Watch members conducted ongoing awareness sessions throughout Hisiu Village, targeting the harmful effects of homebrew production and consumption. Chief Inspector Salle confirmed that families of individuals known to be producing homebrew were advised to surrender their brewing equipment or face possible legal action. After repeated awareness efforts, many villagers changed their behavior, leading to the voluntary handover of homebrew-producing implements to community leaders. He described the response as encouraging, noting that homebrew remains one of the most commonly consumed alcoholic substances among youths and is often linked to antisocial behavior and serious crimes. “I am pleased with the results so far,” Chief Inspector Salle said. “Homebrew consumption often leads to youth related problems that can escalate into serious crimes. Seeing the community respond positively shows that awareness and cooperation work.” He added that Central Province has remained relatively calm during the festive season and expressed hope for a peaceful New Year. “It is up to each individual to behave responsibly so that we can welcome the New Year safely,” he said. “I also want to thank police officers in Central Province for their tireless efforts during the Christmas period. Crimes committed during this time have been recorded and will be investigated.” Chief Inspector Salle also confirmed that police along the Maggi Highway continue to monitor areas affected by the collapse of Imila Bridge within the Kupiano Police Division area of operation. Police say the success of the Community Watch program in Hisiu Village demonstrates the importance of strong community leadership and cooperation in maintaining law and order, particularly during the festive season.