Office of the Bougainville Electoral Commission (OBEC) has announced that polling for the 2025 Bougainville General Elections is complete, including polling for Bougainvilleans outside Bougainville (BOBs). Bougainville Electoral Commissioner Desmond Tsianai reported that polling was generally peaceful and thanked voters, polling officials, security personnel, candidates and communities for their patience, discipline attitude and commitment throughout the process. OBEC further announced that counting will begin on 11th September at four counting centres, following materials return and intake. “The Presidential ballots will be counted at the Presidential Count Center in Buka, while the other seats will be counted at regional counting centers in North, Central and South Bougainville.” “The counting process is anticipated to be completed, with the writs formally returned, by 22 September 2025.” OBEC noted that Observers, scrutineers and the media will be able to observe counting in line with OBEC protocols. For electoral updates, people are urged to visit OBEC via its Facebook page and also to visit the new election platform www.abgelections2025.com

‘GENDER APPRECIATION’, is a storytelling documentary, about the roles of women and the importance of women in every community. The film was screened by PNG Tribal Foundation to over 40 women and girls, including school children, at the Salvation Army Church, Kaugere in Moresby South, last Friday 05th September 2025. Those who sat down to watch had a mixture of emotions, tears were shared, a sense of guilt and frustration was felt also. Many felt ashamed of their actions after watching the documentary and recalling the ordeal and experiences of how gender-based violence has been rooted in their homes and communities. Amongst the 41 attendees were eight males, mostly youths, who attended the free screening and reflected on their parents and have pledged to value women and allow more women making decisions. A woman from Milne Bay, married for 15 years, shared the ordeal of violence she endured in her home with her children, the moment she forced herself into marriage after her parents stopped her form attending nursing college. “Marriage is one of the biggest responsibilities and it’s not easy when you face violence at home every day from your husband who was supposed to love and protect you, and I have been living in hell with my four children. “There are many women facing violence at their homes, and we all need to come out from this,” she said. A woman from Gulf said violence is common in settlements, and it is even affecting the innocent and vulnerable children. The documentary portrays the real-life women go through, and men must change the way they see women and value them. Another woman said the film is very important and must be watched by more men to shift their mindset on valuing women, important roles female place at home, raising children, running a small business, keeping family and home in order, and importantly, women must be given equal opportunities when making decisions, setting out rules, accessing education, and being loved. The film is an anti-violence campaign awareness Tribal Foundation carried out in communities, especially in hotspot communities where domestic violence is seen as normal, and the film focused on shifting mindsets of individuals to value women in society. Tribal Foundation’s President GT Bustin said film screening in communities includes communication tools, a personal pledge, and facilitated community discussion where participants are allowed to share and reflect on the film, how they understand and what they understand about gender-based violence. The film has been shown in Australia and the United States with over 500 showings, and it is entirely in Tok Pisin with English subtitles for viewing in Australia and the United States, as well as for international audiences within PNG. The reach of the film since its rollout in 2015 has been to over 17 provinces and has impacted approximately 200,000 Papua New Guinean lives.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has confirmed that Pacific Island leaders will travel to Port Moresby following the conclusion of the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting in Honiara, Solomon Islands. Prime Minister Marape stated that the leaders have assured him of their solidarity and will be in Papua New Guinea for the nation’s Golden Jubilee celebrations. “All our Pacific brothers and sisters, the leaders of the region, have expressed their commitment to stand with us as Papua New Guinea marks its 50th Independence Anniversary,” Prime Minister Marape said. “After our meeting here in Honiara, they will travel to Port Moresby on a Solomon Islands–assisted charter this Saturday and will remain with us until the 17th of September before departing for their respective countries or onward to the United Nations General Assembly.” Marape added that the Pacific Island leader’s presence will be a great privilege for Papua New Guinea and a profound show of solidarity with the region. Prime Minister Marape said the participation of Pacific leaders reflects the strong bonds of unity and friendship across the region and underlines the importance of Papua New Guinea’s milestone celebration. “We sincerely appreciate their commitment to stand with our people during this historic occasion,” he said. “Our shared future as Pacific nations is strengthened when we come together to celebrate each other’s achievements.” The Golden Jubilee celebrations will feature a week-long programme of national and regional events leading up to Independence Day on Tuesday, 16 September 2025.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) has raised serious concerns regarding an unauthorized landing of New Zealand C-130 aircraft in Buka on Thursday 04th September 2025, describing it as a breach of the Bougainville Peace Agreement. Attorney General Ezekiel Masatt said the incident occurred without prior consultation or authorization from the ABG, as it was required under the Agreement. He said that this principle of consultation and cooperation is fundamental to maintaining peace and stability in Bougainville. The Attorney General further noted that the timing of the incident was particularly sensitive. “At a time when Bougainville is holding elections, and shortly after the high-level meeting with the United Nations Secretary-General, this action has created unnecessary suspicion and apprehension,” he said. While acknowledging that the aircraft’s mission may have had humanitarian purposes, Mr. Masatt stressed that such intentions do not override agreed processes. “This is a serious breach of the Bougainville Peace Agreement, whether the operation is for Humanitarian purposes or not is irrelevant,” he said. The ABG has called on the Governments of New Zealand and Papua New Guinea to respect the Bougainville Peace Agreement and ensure that proper processes are followed in the future.

The Office of the Bougainville Electoral Commissioner (OBEC) commends the people of Bougainville for their turnout yesterday during the polling, which was a proud reflection of Bougainville’s commitment to democracy. Polling was conducted peacefully across Bougainville on Friday 5th September, following polling in Atolls Constituency on Thursday, 4 September 2025. Early reports indicated that voter turnout was good, with large numbers of Bougainvilleans coming out to cast their votes. OBEC acknowledges that some voters faced long waits, particularly in polling places serving Bougainvilleans in Bougainville but away from their constituencies, such as in Buka, and that others were disappointed as their names were not found on the rolls. These experiences are valid, and OBEC takes them seriously, highlighting that all feedback from voters, observers, and stakeholders will be considered as part of the post-election review processes. “The long queues we saw in some places were a challenge, but they are also a reflection of something we should celebrate -- Bougainvillea’s’ commitment to democracy and their determination to make their voices heard,” the Electoral Commissioner said. To ensure every eligible voter has the chance to participate, OBEC has allowed polling for some polling teams to be extended to today Saturday 6th September to allow anyone who was in the queue at 1600 BST on 5 September but who was unable to cast their vote to return to their polling place and cast their vote today. These decisions were based on assessments made by the Assistant Returning Officers, Returning Officers and the Commissioner, considering factors such as late openings and limited availability of resources that would have allowed polling to continue into the night, such as electricity and security arrangements. This extension is part of OBEC’s commitment to deliver a free, fair, and credible election. “High turnout is a strength of our democracy.” “Listening to voters and learning from their experiences will help us build an even better electoral process for the future,” said Electoral Commissioner. OBEC thanks voters, officials, and partners for their patience, cooperation, and dedication to strengthening Bougainville’s democracy

President of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, His Excellency Ishmael Toroama, this week reaffirmed Bougainville’s unwavering commitment to peace, democracy, and the rule of law in his bilateral meeting with United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres recently during their meet here in Port Moresby during the United Nations Secretary-General 3days official visit. In his address, President Toroama called on the United Nations and the international community to recognize and uphold the democratic choice of the Bougainville people, who voted overwhelmingly – 97.7 percent – for independence in the 2019 Referendum. “Mr. Secretary General, I would like to assure you that Bougainville respects the democratic principles and human rights and fundamental freedoms as laid down in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and as given expression in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and other international human rights instruments embedded in International Law,” President Toroama said. He emphasized also that PNG became a state party to the provisions of the treaties, under international law and “is therefore obliged to accept, respect and endorse the binding Bougainville referendum result for independence.” President Toroama highlighted that the definition of independence that was on the referendum ballot paper, was provided by the National Government. “PNG was in effect, foreshadowing Bougainville’s Independence with the definition which essentially articulated for Bougainville to be a separate independent state, separate from PNG.” “PNG is bound by its own consent to be a party to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and other international human rights instruments embedded in International Law thus having a duty to adhere to the provisions of these treaties.” President Toroama also acknowledged the UN Peacebuilding Fund’s (UNPBF) role in enabling the successful referendum and called for its continued support as Bougainville transitions into independence. The President also highlighted the Melanesian Agreement, signed with Prime Minister James Marape in June 2025, which provides a framework for ratification of the Referendum result and outlines awareness programs for both the National Parliament and the people of Papua New Guinea and Bougainville. “Equally, Bougainville’s compliance of the Peace Agreement and Part XIV of the PNG Constitution over the last twenty-four years and my government believes that the aspirations of our people must now be realized,” President Toroama elaborated. President Toroama also acknowledged the UN Peacebuilding Fund’s (UNPBF) role in enabling the successful referendum and called for its continued support as Bougainville transitions into independence. President Toroama also appealed for two important aspects to be considered. · The separation of UN Peacebuilding Fund management between the PNG Highlands and Bougainville, highlighting the distinct contexts and outcomes of the two conflicts. · The restoration of a UN political office in Bougainville to better support the region’s unique peacebuilding journey. President Toroama emphasized Bougainville as a model of peacebuilding and conflict resolution worldwide. “I believe that in a world experiencing so much conflict, turmoil and adversity, Bougainville can be the beacon of hope and inspiration by sharing the successful story of peacebuilding, overcoming difficulties, and finding solutions to conflict, sustaining peace and self-determination.”

During the recent visit of United Nations Secretary General, His Excellency António Guterres to Papua New Guinea this week, The United Nations Secretary-General has reaffirmed UN’s support to both parties of the Bougainville Peace Agreement between Papua New Guinea and Bougainville. The United Nations Secretary-General thanked the leadership of the Government of Papua New Guinea and the Autonomous Bougainville Government, for the opportunity to discuss the Bougainville peace process during his visit to Papua New Guinea. The Secretary-General informed the leaders that the United Nations is proud to walk this journey with both Papua New Guinea government and the Autonomous Bougainville Government as they have done for over 24 years. “You have shown the world the path of healing, through dialogue, perseverance, and mutual respect.” The Secretary-General said the Melanesian Agreement, signed in June, exemplifies both parties’ willingness to engage in the difficult conversations and that the United Nations remains committed to supporting both parties as jointly requested by the two governments. “The United Nations is a neutral partner to the process and remains committed to supporting both parties equally in the implementation of the Bougainville Peace Agreement and the Melanesian Agreement, in achieving a lasting peace.”

Air Niugini is proud to announce that Captains Joachim Ortlauf, Captain Paul Lohia and First Officer (FO) Alipate Vasutoga, have all successfully completed their Airbus A220 type rating training at the world-class Airbus facility in Mirabel, Canada. Their achievement brings the total number of A220-qualified Air Niugini pilots to seven, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s fleet modernization journey. Two additional groups are currently going through their training in Montreal and are expected to conclude their trainings by the end of September. With six more courses planned for the remainder of the year, Air Niugini anticipates having 25 fully trained A220 pilots by year-end. The training momentum will continue into 2026, ensuring a robust pipeline of qualified pilots ready to operate the new fleet. The A220 pilot training program in Mirabel is conducted at Airbus’s cutting-edge facility, which offers advanced full-flight simulators, immersive classroom instruction, and scenario-based operational training. These resources ensure that pilots are equipped to handle the technologically sophisticated A220 aircraft with precision and confidence. Air Niugini has taken a proactive and strategic approach to preparing its workforce for the arrival of the A220. Beyond pilot training, the airline has partnered with Airbus Beyond to deliver specialized programs for engineers, cabin crew, and ground staff, thus these initiatives include immersive simulations and leadership development courses aimed at building a future-ready aviation workforce across Papua New Guinea. Air Niugini’s Officer in Charge (OIC) and Acting Chief Operating Officer, Captain Samiu Taufa, MBE highlighted that the A220 is more than just a new addition to Air Niuginis fleet. “It is our first brand-new, next-generation jet aircraft and captures the spirit of our nation and our aspirations for the future.” “The training of our pilots and staff reflects our commitment to safety, excellence, and delivering world-class service to our customers.” The arrival of the first A220 aircraft, registered P2-PGA and affectionately dubbed the “People’s Balus,” is scheduled for 15 September 2025—perfectly timed to coincide with Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary. “The delivery flight will operate from Montreal to Vancouver, then Honolulu, Nadi, and finally Port Moresby, symbolizing a new era of flying and pride for our nation.” The A220’s introduction is not only a technological upgrade but a transformative moment for Papua New Guinea’s aviation sector. “With its fuel efficiency, reduced noise footprint, and enhanced passenger comfort, the aircraft will elevate domestic and regional travel experiences, for Air Niugini, it represents a leap forward in operational capability and service excellence.”

The much-anticipated Central City Project within the Central Province will soon take shape following an approval of K27million funding allocation for the Central City development. The long-awaited dream of giving Central Province its own identity took a major step forward with the first drawdown of K10, 000 from the Central Provincial Central City Trust Fund under the leadership of Central Provincial Member Rufina Peter, marking the beginning of the much-anticipated Central City project. “For so long, Central has not had a face, and I want to leave a legacy where Central has a face,” said proud Walis Imbal, Provincial Financial Manager, who was instrumental in advocating for and securing the release of the funds. Speaking at a small ceremony attended by representatives from Finance and National Planning, Imbal recalled the history of the trust fund stating that the funds remained dormant and unused, therefore a new trust deed had to be issued by Finance for funding to be avail. “We then worked very closely with the Acting Provincial Administrator, the Governor, and the Finance Department, and we are glad Finance Secretary approved for the access of the K27 Million specially for Central City development. Deputy Finance Secretary Tom Tiki who spoke on behalf of the Finance secretary at the approval of funds stated that the Finance Secretary, made emphasis on two major projects for Central Province—the Central City and the Central Hospital. “He also stressed the need to utilize funds sitting in trust accounts, not leave them idle, because across provinces, K2 to K3 billion remains unused in trust accounts at the sub national level, this money needs to be spent,” Tiki said. Acting Provincial Administrator Edward Kila also voiced his concern, calling on the administration to rally behind the Governor. “Money has sat there for over fifteen years, and nothing has resulted, let’s use the funds for the purpose intended,” Kila said. Governor Rufina Peter revealed that one of her first tasks upon taking office in 2022 was to investigate the status of Central City. “I knew from my days in National Planning that there was a trust account with funds parked there, so when I came in, I wrote quickly to Planning because K300,000 was outstanding to Snowy Mountain Engineering (SME) Company for an independent assessment of the Bautama site.” “Despite writing three times with no response, we eventually funded the payment through Provincial Executive Council (PEC), once paid, Snowy Moutain Engineering released the report,” Governor Peter explained. The independent assessment revealed that only a third of the land at Bautama is suitable for development, with most of the land being hilly and requiring costly flattening said Governor Rufina. “As a result, PEC prioritized 50 hectares for the Central Provincial Hospital, while the Provincial Market structure, initiated under the previous government, already occupies another prime section of flat land”. “With much of Bautama’s flat terrain taken up by these key projects, PEC has endorsed relocating the new seat of Government to Sabusa, along the Hiritano Highway.” The drawdown of the K10,000 is for Stationers and represents not just the start of physical works again but also a renewed commitment to giving Central Province a face and a legacy through infrastructure that will serve its people for generations.

Police in Port Moresby city have busted an illegal operation of manufacturing rugby league merchandise after conducting an investigation over the weekend on Sunday 31st August. The investigation was conducted by the National Fraud and Anti Corruption Directorate (NFACD), following a tip off after it was discovered that certain shops at Erima were selling fake merchandise to customers During the raid police confiscated large quantities of fake Mendi Muruks Rugby League Club merchandise which were illegally produced and sold for profit. During the raid, five (5) Chinese nationals and two (2) Myanmar nationals were apprehended and taken to the NAFCD office for questioning. Police say further investigations are ongoing, and more arrests may follow as authorities crack down hard on counterfeit goods and the exploitation of PNG Sporting Brands.

The 11th Edition of the Standard Treatment for Common Illnesses of Children of Papua New Guinea was launched recently in the country, a cornerstone of child healthcare guidance since the country’s independence in 1975. During the launching, representatives from the Australian High Commission were delighted to join the Pediatric Society of Papua New Guinea (PSPNG) to launch the 11th edition of The Standard Treatment for Common Illnesses of Children in Papua New Guinea. Published every five years, the book is authored by pediatricians and medical specialists with deep, first-hand knowledge of Papua New Guinea’s health landscape. It provides practical, evidence-based guidance for diagnosing and treating common childhood illnesses, managing emergencies, and promoting preventive care. The book is widely used across the health system from remote aid posts to busy provincial hospitals and plays a critical role in improving child health outcomes. As part of Australia’s longstanding commitment to improving health outcomes for the people of PNG, 30,000 copies of the new edition have been printed and will be distributed nationwide soon. More than just a manual, the 11th edition of The Standard Treatment for Common Illnesses of Children in Papua New Guinea reflects a commitment to locally informed, evidence-based healthcare. “Every child in Papua New Guinea has the right to healthcare yet reaching them across rural and peri-urban communities remains a great challenge,” said Dr. James Amini, President of PSPNG. Dr Amini highlighted that most child deaths are preventable with early diagnosis and simple treatments. “The Standard Treatment Book, now in its 11th edition, equips health workers with the guidance they need to deliver these life-saving interventions.” At the meantime, Australia is proud to support frontline health workers to ensure effective care for children across Papua New Guinea.

Royal Australian Navy ship HMAS Choules has arrived in Port Moresby over the weekend on Saturday 30th August 2025, with Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel ready to assist the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) as they prepare to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Independence. The ADF support Operation codenamed “WANTAIM”, commemorates the strong defence relationship between Papua New Guinea and Australia. Choules will remain in Port Moresby until mid-September, providing accommodation and real-life support for pacific partners from Fiji, New Zealand, Tonga and Vanuatu who are taking part in PNGDF Week and PNG 50th celebrations. Choules will be participating in the Public Open Day for ship visits on Tuesday 02 September, while a second Royal Australian Navy Ship, HMAS Childers will join in the Multinational Fleet Review on Thursday 4th September. Led by the PNGDF, the ADF will also contribute personnel from the Australian Army and Royal Australian Air Force to ceremonial and celebratory events including air shows, ceremonial drill and artillery displays and military bands. Lead Maritime Planner for the PNGDF’s Joint Taskforce (JTF-50), Lieutenant Commander Laijah Anthony, said the 50th anniversary of independence celebrations is important for the PNGDF and for the people of Papua New Guinea. “We are working hard with our Australian counterparts, and we thank them for their support,” JTF-50 LCDR Anthony said. Commander of the ADF contingent, Australian Army Lieutenant Colonel Simon Frewin said the ADF is honored to be in Port Moresby and is ready to support. “The ADF is proud to have been invited to join PNG independence celebrations under Operation WANTAIM,” he said. “Our contribution to PNG 50 celebrations is testament to the deep friendship and partnership between our two militaries, which is constantly increasing in breadth and integration,” Lieutenant Colonel Frewin said. Led by the PNGDF, the ADF are supporting the planning and delivery of PNGDF Week events: • Public Open Day for Ship Visits • Multinational Fleet Review • Naval ‘Freedom of Port Moresby’ March • Military Tattoo and Cultural Presentations • Air Show at Ela Beach • Static Air Display