SUPREME COURT ORDER IS SPECIFIC

Today, the Supreme Court issued an order in relation to the Opposition's Supreme Court Challenge regarding the rejection of the 27 Nov 2024 motion of VONC by the Private Business Committee.

The decision can be easily contested whether it breaches the Constitution on the separation of powers between the Judiciary, Legislature and the Executive Government. 

However, the Government honoured the ruling and will comply in the true spirit of democracy and comply as ordered.

So what is the status of the  matter and how will the order be executed by the Speaker?

In summary the court orders that Parliament is recalled on the 8th April 2025 to deal with the particular VONC motion that was filled by the Opposition and introduced to the Private Business Committee which was then rejected by the PBC' so did the Parliament. 

This Supreme Court ruling renders that specific VONC motion live, hence it must be dealt with by Parliament.

In the motion, the alternate PM nominee is Sir Peter Ipatas. So the contest is now between Prime Minister James Marape and Grand Chief Sir Peter Ipatas.

The order is for the  Speaker to entertain the specific 27th November 2024 VONC motion, which that fearures Marape 'vs' Ipatas. Any alteration or deviation outside of this order will be in contempt of the Supreme Court order.

So Mr James Nomane can finish his job by supporting GC Sir Peter Ipatas with the required number to topple PMJM.

Bring it on. PANGU STAP!

Analysis: Jemes Marape Clings to Power Despite the Facts Sends the Opposite Message

"I will not step down", and that's the strong message from PNG Prime Minister James Marape.

This isn’t a new script for PNG. Marape, in power since 2019 and re-elected in 2022, was once the fresh face promising stability. Now, critics say he’s floundering. 

Armed gangs roam the Highlands unchecked, leaving citizens scared and Simbu Province MP James Nomane warning of a “failed state” on the horizon. 

Economically, delays in the Papua LNG project—a potential game-changer—have tongues wagging about mismanagement. 

Then there’s the old baggage: as ex-Finance Minister, Marape’s tied to murky payments that still haunt his reputation.

The opposition smells blood, and they’re not alone. Students and online voices are amplifying the outrage, turning up the volume on a public fed up with broken promises. Marape’s response? It’s all a political hit job. He’s betting on PNG’s Constitution to keep him in the driver’s seat, arguing only Parliament—not protests—can call the shots.

In PNG’s parliamentary system, ousting a PM isn’t a free-for-all. Marape could quit, handing his resignation to the Governor-General and kicking off a scramble for a new leader among MPs. 

He’s made it clear he’s not walking away. Behind closed doors, his Pangu Party and coalition partners hold the real keys. If they waver, he’s toast, VoNC or not. For now, he’s banking on loyalty and the opposition’s shaky math to ride this out.

A resignation could unleash a free-for-all, stalling everything from LNG deals to the NRL bid. And if public pressure alone topples him, it might set a dicey precedent for a country that leans hard on its parliamentary guardrails.

Marape’s at a crossroads. The resignation calls aren’t just noise—they’re a symptom of a nation on edge. He’s got the law on his side, but the law doesn’t quiet crowds or fix a broken system. 

Whether he’s forced out by a VoNC or clings on through sheer grit, the real test isn’t just survival—it’s whether he can prove he’s still the guy for the job. Right now, the jury’s out, and PNG’s watching.

With William Stevens 🇵🇬, the visionary artist behind Papua New Guinea’s iconic Banknotes

With William Stevens 🇵🇬, the visionary artist behind Papua New Guinea’s iconic K2, K5, K10, and later K20 banknotes. In 1973, at just 16 years old and a budding graphic arts student at Goroka Technical School, he was handpicked by an Australian government team and sent to Fitzroy, Victoria. 

There, he spent a transformative year designing the notes for PNG’s new currency, which became legal tender in 1975 as the nation stepped boldly into independence. 🌟✍️💪

Now at 68, William Stevens remains a testament to youthful brilliance and dedication. As the Kina 🇵🇬 marks its 50th anniversary next month and PNG celebrates its own milestone in September, his story reminds us that greatness can emerge from the most unexpected places. 

Yet, despite his incredible contribution, he has never been properly acknowledged or compensated for his work. 💔🤝

Let’s celebrate and honour the legacy of William Stevens 🇵🇬 – a true artist who helped shape the identity of our nation. His journey is proof that talent knows no age, and that creativity has the power to leave a lasting mark on history. 🌺✨📜 #PNG 🇵🇬 #Inspiration #WilliamStevens #Kina50

MARAPE TO PURSUE CASE AGAINST POST COURIER, WILL NOT STEP DOWN AS PRIME MINISTER

Press Release 

Friday, 28 March 2025

Prime Minister James Marape has indicated that his legal team will pursue a case against local newspaper Post Courier over its reports on Wednesday, March 26th, 2025.

The paper had the headline "Paraka Payment 'Scam'" , where Member for Sinasina Yonggomugl and Opposition strongman, Kerenga Kua, testified in court that Marape, who was then Finance Minister, pressured staff in the department to make payments to Paraka Lawyers.

The revelation to sue Post Courier was made today by the Prime Minister after returning from an official visit to New Zealand.

There were other inferences also made on the newspapers front page story which has raised concerns.

Marape is considering to file complaints that the matter before the court was being used by Post Courier to conduct media trial and stirring unnecessary insinuations.

He says this amounted to contempt of court.

The Prime Minister has also made it clear that he will not step down or resign from the office as per calls peddled on social media.

PM Marape reaffirms govt commitment to transparency with special audit into Connect PNG

17 March 2025

MEDIA STATEMENT 

Prime Minister James Marape has reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance by announcing the launch of a special audit into the Connect PNG Infrastructure Programme.

This high-level audit, led by Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu in partnership with Norths Projects Ltd, an internationally recognized engineering firm, will comprehensively assess the entire Connect PNG Programme following allegations of corruption and mismanagement.

The audit aims to provide an independent and professional review of the programme’s financial integrity and performance, ensuring that Connect PNG effectively fulfills its mandate of linking the country through modern road networks.

 “Our government has always upheld high standards of transparency. We do not tolerate impropriety or corruption in our systems. In light of widespread concerns, including last year’s allegations branding Connect PNG as a corrupt scheme, we are committed to conducting a full audit of the programme,” stated Prime Minister Marape.

To this end, the Prime Minister emphasized the engagement of Deloitte, one of the world’s leading accounting firms, alongside a reputable engineering firm, to conduct a thorough assessment of Connect PNG.

 “Their review will not only verify the integrity of the programme but also ensure that every kina is spent appropriately and that roads are constructed to proper engineering standards,” he added.

The special audit commenced in February 2025 and will involve physical inspections of Phase One projects across eight provinces, marking the first comprehensive review of the programme since its inception.

To enhance the audit process, the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) will provide security and logistical support, ensuring a fair and effective assessment.

The audit will determine whether any financial irregularities have occurred. If so, those responsible will face legal consequences; meanwhile, individuals wrongly accused will have the opportunity to clear their names.

 “If there has been any mismanagement, corruption, or unethical conduct, those responsible will be prosecuted. Conversely, if these allegations are found to be baseless, those falsely accused will be able to seek legal redress for any reputational damage,” Prime Minister Marape affirmed.

Emphasizing the importance of the Connect PNG programme, the Prime Minister noted its critical role in providing essential road networks to all parts of the country—a mission that must not be undermined by corruption or inefficiency.

 “For too long, PNG has remained disconnected, with large areas still inaccessible by road, even after nearly 50 years of independence. Connect PNG seeks to change this reality and ensure that our growing population and economy have the necessary infrastructure for long-term sustainability,” he said.

Additionally, Prime Minister Marape revealed that his government is developing a new policy to expand independent auditing across all government agencies. Moving forward, any department or agency facing allegations of mismanagement will undergo an independent review by leading global accounting firms, including Deloitte, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), Ernst & Young, and KPMG.

 “We are committed to ensuring full transparency in government finances. These firms will be granted full access to government records, working alongside the Auditor General’s Office to provide independent and credible assessments of all key agencies and departments,” PM Marape stated.

He commended Chief Secretary Ivan Pomaleu and his team for their efforts in ensuring that the Connect PNG audit proceeds with integrity and professionalism.

“We have nothing to hide, and this process will instill public confidence that we are serious about accountability. We want to ensure that every kina spent is accounted for and that PNG’s infrastructure projects are built to last, serving the nation for generations to come,” he concluded.

Hong Kong’s second-richest billionaire Lee Shau Kee revealed the burdens of extreme wealth

By Hai Trieu, Tue 3/18/2025, 08:35 pm (PT)

Lee Shau Kee, Hong Kong’s second richest billionaire, once shared in his biography that extreme wealth had brought him many troubles.

Lee, who passed away on Monday at age 97, said in his biography published years ago that being rich is generally a good thing, according to Hong Kong-based magazine Ming Pao Weekly.

"Poverty is truly worrisome and difficult. Imagine not having enough food, no warm clothes, and not knowing when you should sleep. How could you feel comfortable? How could you achieve your goals? On top of that, occasional illness is like having a leaking roof on a rainy night, truly miserable," he said.

However, he noted that simply being rich is different from having extreme wealth, which comes with many pitfalls.

The tycoon said he often received letters from around the world seeking donations for various causes.

"After reading these letters, I feel very uneasy because I feel bad if I do not help them. But if I want to help, I do not know whether they are genuine or not," he said, remarking that countless people worldwide need help. "The more suffering I witness, the more ashamed I feel.

He added: "Moreover, once you become a billionaire, you inevitably become a public figure and live in a goldfish bowl, and you lose many opportunities for freedom and independence.

"Furthermore, once you have a lot of money, circumstances will force you to work tirelessly to protect your wealth. It is not that you 'use' money, but rather that money 'uses' you. Enduring physical exhaustion and endless mental anxiety is not a pleasant feeling."

He claimed: "Those who are neither poor nor rich are the luckiest and can truly enjoy themselves."

Lee is known for his extensive philanthropic legacy, with a focus on education.

He was nicknamed "Uncle Four" as he was born in 1928 as the fourth child in a merchant family from southern China’s Guangdong province, as reported by Forbes.

At age six, he began helping with his father’s business, which dealt in gold, silver, and currency exchange. Skilled in mental arithmetic from a young age, he had learned gold inspection, smelting, and refining by 12.

At 20, he left for Hong Kong with HK$1,000 (US$128) he had saved from years of working in the family business.

Within less than a year, he had earned enough money to send back home to support his family and ventured into the hardware industry and import-export trade.

In the 1950s and 1960s, Lee recognized the potential for growth in the real estate sector, so he partnered with a few friends to found Sun Hung Kai Properties.

As its vice chairman and managing director, he was responsible for site planning, land acquisition, and property sales. He also collaborated with banks to introduce installment payment options, making homeownership more accessible to the public.

He later left the firm in 1973 and established his flagship company, Henderson Land Development, in 1976.

Lee was the richest person in Asia in 1996 and 1997 and the fourth wealthiest in the world in 1996. He was also known by other nicknames such as "Asia’s god of stocks" and "Hong Kong’s Warren Buffett."

He is survived by two sons, Peter and Martin Lee, who now jointly run his Henderson empire, and three daughters.

According to Forbes' February rankings, Lee was the second-richest person in Hong Kong. His net worth was estimated at US$30 billion before his death.

Opening Statement by ABG President at the Joint Consultation Moderator Meeting

Sir Jerry Mateparae, Distinguished Moderator, the Honourable James Marape, Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, Foreign Missions, distinguished dignitaries, ladies and gentlemen. 

First I would like to thank you Sir Jerry for this most unique opportunity to present our case in this very historical meeting. It is a historical event because you are here on our invitation to broker this dialogue. It is particularly significant as this is very much, the last leg of our journey. 

Secondly, I welcome the presence of representatives of the international community especially the friends of Bougainville who stood behind us to bring about a truce and ceasefire and to pave the way for negotiations. 

Many of us present here today have personal experience of those negotiations up to and including the signing of the Bougainville Peace Agreement. 

I thank the National Government for inviting the signatories to the Peace Agreement to witness the opening ceremony of this moderation. As one of the key negotiators in those days, I still remember, we never argued to implement our part of the bargain, and I still remember I had to meet the BPA commitments as my part of the bargain. And in the same spirit, Honorable Prime Minister, I now expect your Government to take ownership and endorse independence in this 11th parliament. 

Prime Minister, I appeal to you to take the Bougainville referendum results and pass it to the National Minister for Bougainville Affairs to present to the National Parliament for endorsement through this moderation process in the same manner the National Constitution was amended to give effect to the Bougainville Peace Agreement. 

By this action of the Parliament of Papua New Guinea, to amend the Constitution in 2001, PNG was probably the first independent state anywhere to have accorded the UN Charter right and principle of self-determination of peoples to its own people under its domestic laws and regulations. 

We recognize that the sessional order is a process that will happen in the national parliament and while we appreciate the engagement in this particular subject, it has diverted our attention from the core agenda of the political settlement on independence. The referendum Independence result must be endorsed. In the spirit of the Bougainville Peace Agreement, the two governments can jointly decide as part of the consultations to reach agreement on a bilateral relationship for independence for Bougainville outside of parliament. 

Bougainville’s agenda is independence and in our post-referendum consultations we have made this clear, resulting in joint agreements such as the Wabag roadmap and the Era Kone Covenant. Therefore, it is my expectation that the moderation process will have to address the Bougainville independence issue. 

I thank the signatory countries that witnessed the Peace Agreement, for your commitment. I trust that as the witnesses to the BPA, you will respect the Bougainville people’s democratic choice for Independence, decided through a constitutionally granted referendum for independence. I am aware that some countries are already implicated in pushing their neo-colonial interests in Bougainville and I ask that you refrain from interfering. 

Sir Jerry, my people have set 1st September 2027, as the date for independence to take effect. This decision is consistent with the jointly agreed Referendum Results Implementation Roadmap, commonly known as the ‘Wabag Roadmap’, that set the window of ‘no earlier than 2025, no later than 2027’, for the declaration of independence. As President, I will uphold the decision of my people throughout these moderation consultations. 

I look forward that this moderation process will conclude with an agreement on the independence package for Bougainville. 

The Bougainville Peace Agreement is a political settlement that has three pillars; Weapons Disposal, Autonomy and Referendum. Out of the three pillars, the Referendum pillar was the key pillar that held the commitment of all Bougainvilleans to the peace process, by guaranteeing in the National Constitution, a choice of separate independence for Bougainville. 

The definition of independence was defined by the Government of PNG as, ‘An independent nation state with sovereign powers and laws, recognized under international law and by other sovereign states to be an independent state, separate from the State of Papua New Guinea.’ The people voted for independence and to propose any other option in this moderation is detrimental to the peace process.  

We all know Papua New Guinea is going to celebrate its 50 years independence anniversary. In the case of Bougainville, this marks more than 50 years of struggle for independence within Papua New Guinea. It is important to remember that Bougainville leaders have lobbied for Bougainville’s Independence well before PNG’s Independence without any recognition from international bodies.  

In conclusion, Mr Moderator, as far as I am concerned, the process of negotiating independence was concluded with the referendum. My understanding is that this moderation is about reaching agreement on implementing the referendum result of independence. Therefore, my focus in this moderation is to define the new relationship between Bougainville and Papua New Guinea as two independent sovereign states. This relationship can be captured through an independence package for Bougainville. 

Bougainville has done its part in this peace process. It is now your turn. 

May God continue to bless Bougainville and Papua New Guinea. 

His Excellency Hon. Ishmael Toroama, MHR 

President

https://abg.gov.pg/index.php?/news/read/opening-statement-by-abg-president-at-the-joint-consultation-moderator-meeting

TIME FOR PNG TO STAND TOGETHER IN THE MOST CIVILISED WAY TO TELL THE PRIME MINISTER AND NEC AND PARLIAMENT TO SAY... ENOUGH

... TOO MUCH MEDDLING IN THE CONSTITUTION AND MAKING LAWS TO PROTECT THEMSELVES AND THEIR BAD LAWS AND POLICIES MUST STOP. 

==========*****=========*****============

Posted by Pamba Kapiye...

Breaking News: Amendment of NEC Act means dictatorship - You can't challenge govt's NEC decisions in court.

By Senior Lawyer Anthony Rake.

THE National Executive Council Act was just amended last week by this government without much debate to include a provision that says that any NEC decision is non-justiceable. 

This means that any NEC decision now will not be able to be challenged in a court of law, including appointments of senior government bureaucrats, or further obtaining NEC approved loans outside the scope of our Fiscal Responsibility Act, which of course was amended more than once to continue get loans, and just to do anything and everything they (NEC) wishes to do.

Meanwhile, also in the same week, a day apart, the Constitution was also successfully repealed to disallow any Vote of No Confidence.

Effectively, the two arms of our government, the Executive and the Legislature, are immune from scrutiny and accountability.

Is a very scary country now we are heading to. The people the NEC appoints can't be even scrutinized. They will appoint whoever they want and that no one has the power to challenge appointments. In a way, every head of department and government organization will be picked by them, whether maritarious or not, and effectively, all state institutions shall follow the orders by the NEC, of which, the Prime Minister is the chairman!

What is left of once an independent country now will be left with a total dictatorship, controlling all state institutions. You can't go against. If you do, the NEC will remove you and put another person, which is non-justiceable (meaning no one can challenge that in court) or other independent authority for that matter.

When VoNC is given less chance, and when NEC's decisions are non-justiceable, then you are definitely talking about a dictatorship! Even the electoral commissioner will be on the mercy of the Government. Or the Police Committal or the Ombudsman Commissioner.

Corruption can take its cause, which is a natural child of the laws they are introducing.

Is this the kind of country we want for our children? The recklessness of this government to remain in power and do whatever it wants without accountability and scrutiny is very scary. God help us🇵🇬😭..

Ends ..

LAW AND ORDER CRISIS: WHO IS REALLY TO BLAME?

While freedom of movement is a constitutional right, it has become alarmingly clear that certain provinces are now shutting their doors to outsiders. This is not an attack on national unity, nor is it a random act of discrimination it is a direct response to the law and order crisis that has been ignored for far too long.

STOP BLAMING PROVINCES THAT ARE TRYING TO PROTECT THEMSELVES

Politicians and citizens alike are quick to condemn provinces that are taking drastic measures to protect their people. But before pointing fingers, let’s ask the hard questions:

●Why has law and order deteriorated to the point where people feel unsafe in their own country?

●Why are provinces resorting to shutting their borders?

●Why are some provinces peaceful while others are overrun with crime and violence?

It is easy to criticize these provinces for “discrimination,” but they are only reacting to a national crisis that politicians have failed to address. Instead of blaming them, we should be asking:

●Why is my province struggling with crime?

●Why are my people leaving for other provinces?

●Why is my government failing to provide safety and opportunities for its own citizens?

IF YOU WANT CHANGE, FIX YOUR OWN BACKYARD FIRST

Rather than shifting blame, politicians and citizens need to take responsibility and demand real solutions:

 Improve law and order in your own province.
 Create jobs and economic opportunities to reduce unnecessary migration.
 Strengthen border security to prevent criminals from moving freely.
 Reintroduce the Vagrancy Act to manage migration and lawlessness.
 Give provinces autonomy to control their security and development.

THE HARSH REALITY

If law and order continues to deteriorate, more provinces will take drastic measures to protect their people. National unity will not be saved by simply quoting constitutional rights it will only be restored when every province is safe, livable, and economically stable for its own people.

This is the time for all Members of Parliament to take responsibility and address the law and order crisis in their own provinces and districts. Improve security, create employment opportunities for your constituents, and repatriate unemployed vagrants who have migrated to other provinces. Strengthen border security, reintroduce the Vagrancy Act, and push for regional autonomy so provinces can control their borders, manage their economies, protect their land, safeguard their interests, and most importantly, ensure the safety of their people.

Instead of blaming provinces for reacting to crime, ask why crime is out of control in the first place. Fix that problem, and no one will have to shut their doors. Enough of excuses and stop blaming others. 

See less

— feeling sad in Port Moresby.

Lino Jeremaih Tom - Wabag MP & Peoples Party Leader

By Lino Jeremaih Tom - Wabag MP & Peoples Party Leader

Freedom of movement (section 52) is a fundamental human right but is qualified in our jurisdiction under section 38 of our Constituition. This qualification as stipulated in section 38 is subject to some restrictions and these are clearly articulated in section 38 amongst which, are public safety and order. Now these restrictions can only be imposed through parliament under special circumstances like a State of Emergency etc. Doing it without the parliament’s approval is illegal.

This event in Vanimo is a “watershed moment” in the short history of our nation when people decided to usurp the powers of Parliament and must not be taken lightly. This is a first of its kind. This event has transpired because people have risen to take preemptive and precautionary measures to protect themselves in a gross, uncivil and illegitimate way. Do we blame the people? Yes we do because they have taken law into their own hands because they feel the government and institutions of state will no longer protect their lives and properties and they, unlike the rest including leaders, can see the unprecedented rise in law and order issues and are distressed, very anxious, and afraid. They have now taken a precautionary but somewhat discriminatory and a much more unsavoury way to address this. This precedent maybe quite detrimental to our national unity and goodwill but when desperation sets in, unprecedented measures will be taken as demonstrated by these people.

I hear Governor Bird’s lamentations of unfair wealth distribution and rightly so. But, where are all the Ministers from the coast? They in fact, make up the entire Senior Economic Ministerial Portfolios in cabinet! Why should we blame PM Marape as he’s just one man amongst all these heavy weights from the coast? The last thing we would want is blaming the failures of our system on the ordinary people and taking it out on them. Such draconian discriminatory public measures incited by the good governor of WSP will only destroy our fragile union. Maybe, it’s about time the leaders in Cabinet should rise up and call for a more equitable distribution of the nation’s wealth! Maybe, they should demand more drastic measures to be taken in the fight against this law and order mess! Maybe, they should grow some balls and call a spade a spade and declare that PNG is in a “Law and Order Crisis” and declare a nationwide SOE. We can then vindicate our people in Vanimo for their stance and start curtailing all qualified rights such as the freedom of movement and deal with this mess that we’re in. Supporting illegal and divisive measures like this will only destroy our nation and its fragile union. One wrong doesn’t right another!

If the leaders fail, the people will always rise when they see overt injustice and take law into their own hands as in this case in point and a myriad of other grotesque examples we see daily in social media everyday! At the end of the day, the ordinary and innocent people will suffer as a result for our government’s failure. The majority of the highlanders are civilized and peace loving! The Governor of West Sepik who is in government should ask the Government to be more pragmatic and address these issues instead of fomenting regionalism and discriminatory segregation that may have devastating spillover effects in other parts of our country. Have we run out of ideas to resort to these low, cheap and despicable measures? It’s in times of crisis that the people must see the true essence and strength of Government!

How ‘Blackbirders’ Forced Tens of Thousands of Pacific Islanders Into Slavery After the Civil War

Estimates of the number of Pacific Islanders captured by blackbirders and forced to work on cotton and sugar plantations in Fiji and Australia range from 61,610 to more than 100,000. Public domain via Wikimedia Commons

The decline of the American South’s cotton and sugar industries paved the way for plantations in British-controlled Fiji and Australia, where victims of “blackbirding” endured horrific working conditions

No Pacific Islander was safe from the “blackbirders,” slave traders who lured, coerced or outright kidnapped tens of thousands of people for forced labor in Australia and Fiji in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Some blackbirders disguised themselves as missionaries, going ashore with their collars reversed, books under their arms and the word of God on their tongues. Others enticed islanders to their ships with the promise of traded goods from far-off lands.

One man dressed in the costume of the Ku Klux Klan, a waterproof bag hidden under his robes, writes historian Gerald Horne in The White Pacific: U.S. Imperialism and Black Slavery in the South Seas After the Civil War. He would mesmerize a crowd by seemingly sucking saltwater into his growing belly. Then, when the man appeared to be on the brink of exploding, he’d tear off his costume, revealing the sleight of hand. The audience, so disarmed by the performance and startled by its finale, was said to be easy to snatch.

At times, slavers bypassed tricks altogether, arriving under the cover of night to ambush a village and kidnap its inhabitants. Locals referred to the raids as “blackbirding” because the perpetrators wore dark clothing when they crept ashore; the term also referenced a derogatory slang name for Pacific Islanders.

At the height of blackbirding, European powers occupied much of Oceania, the collective name for the islands scattered across the Pacific Ocean. With limited resources deployed over the vast distances between Vanuatu, the Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea and other islands in the subregion of Melanesia (the main target of blackbirding), colonial governments found it virtually impossible to keep up with the slave trade. On one of the last frontiers of European and American expansion, blackbirders had little fear of being caught in the act.

“The [Pacific Islands’] relative isolation made it easier for unscrupulous frontier individuals to conduct themselves and their various operations in ways that were contrary to the laws of their own countries,” says Robert Nicole, a historian at the University of Canterbury in New Zealand. “Reports of abuses were slow to reach the governments and newspapers of these countries, and the criminal activities often went unpunished.”

Scholars’ estimates of the number of Indigenous people captured by blackbirders and forced to work on cotton and sugar plantations in Fiji and Australia vary widely. Horne cites figures ranging from 61,610 men, women and children to more than 100,000, all taken from their Pacific Island homes between 1863 and 1904. Young men and boys were especially prized: Sturdy and strong, they were the most likely to survive the backbreaking work, meager rations and physical abuse. But attractive women fetched the highest prices, due to their scarcity in mid- to late 19th-century settler communities.

While some individuals captured by blackbirders were promised a minimum annual wage of £3 and a return to their homeland after three years of labor, others were sold directly to planters or forced to continue working after their term was up. Such distinctions have historically cast doubt on whether this form of human trafficking was slavery or indentured servitude, in which individuals work for little or no pay for a set period of time as a way of repaying a debt.

The vast majority of those taken by blackbirders, however, had no debts to repay. Before being removed from their homes, they’d likely had little to no contact with foreign settlers. Blackbirding ships were commonly equipped with shackles and other means of preventing passengers from escaping, and they rarely had enough space or supplies to transport their human cargo—evidence that supports the argument that blackbirding was slavery rather than indentured servitude. If the islanders had signed contracts in good faith and received the necessary provisions, restraints wouldn’t have been necessary to keep them from jumping ship.

“This was employment enforced through the barrel of a gun or the crack of a whip,” says Nicole. “In this economy, foreign individuals and their associates create wealth for themselves on the backs of islanders who were given little or no choice in the matter.”

---

The fact that the South Pacific slave trade arose just as the United States became embroiled in a conflict over slavery is no coincidence. Perhaps the biggest irony of the Civil War is that the December 6, 1865, ratification of the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery (except for convicted criminals) in the U.S., did not put a nail in the coffin of the global slave trade. Instead, its locus was simply transplanted to a new region.

The South Pacific slave trade grew out of cotton, or rather a lack thereof. In the early 1860s, plantations in the American South produced 75 percent of the cotton used around the globe. The outbreak of the Civil War in 1861 ground textile manufacturing to a halt but did not diminish demand for its output. In Great Britain and Europe, the price of cotton exploded.

Global powers had already started discussing the diversification of the cotton industry, especially as the U.S. slipped further and further toward conflict. As early as the 1850s, the British government experimented with Fiji and Australia as cotton-friendly alternatives to the American South. The results were promising, but the crop was labor intensive. Its production was only profitable in the U.S. because those who worked on plantations were enslaved, and the enslaved did not earn salaries.

Only by replicating the conditions pioneered in the U.S. could a South Pacific cotton industry be as lucrative as the one it was replacing. Unsurprisingly, white European settlers and Confederate refugees who sought respite from the Civil War in the South Pacific played a pivotal role in the new plantations’ development.

“The obvious source of labor to turn to was local Fijian labor, but very few Fijians were available or willing to work for planters under the exploitative conditions that often prevailed on these plantations,” says Nicole. “In 1864 and 1865, the first ships carrying laborers from Vanuatu arrived in Fiji, [and] before long, an entire labor trade emerged to service Fiji’s new plantations.”

Beyond Fiji, the British colonies of Queensland and New South Wales in Australia offered similarly attractive ecosystems for re-establishing the cotton industry. Sugar cane, another labor-intensive good whose production was disrupted by the Civil War, soon followed.

The blackbird trade was disjointed. Independent operators controlled the ships and set their routes without coordinating with one another or local authorities. Most blackbirders were citizens of the U.S. and Britain who’d come to the region as traders or settlers and found a lucrative business in trafficking human beings.

Although British law technically outlawed slavery in the empire’s colonies in the South Pacific, only a handful of Royal Navy ships patrolled the area. Even if a ship was suspected of blackbirding, the law could only be enforced against those of British origins, and even then, enslavers were rarely convicted due to the fine line between the definitions of indentured labor and enslavement.

In 1869, a Royal Navy ship seized the schooner Daphne on the suspicion that it was transporting enslaved laborers. Authorities found that the Daphne was carrying twice as many Pacific Islanders as it had been licensed to contract, in terrible conditions without sufficient supplies. The schooner’s South Australian owner escaped conviction on slavery charges because the prosecution didn’t have enough evidence to prove that working conditions at the ship’s destination of Fiji constituted slavery.

In truth, the Indigenous islanders blackbirded for plantation work in Fiji and Australia endured living conditions that, in many ways, mirrored the ones enslaved Americans had just escaped. Shelter was inadequate, food was limited and of poor quality, and hours were long. Workers faced violence and coercion from plantation owners and managers, and they had little access to medical care. Deaths from diseases to which they had no immunity were extremely frequent.

The South Pacific slave trade had an equally devastating effect on the communities targeted by blackbirders. “Robbed of their able-bodied men, the trade caused massive challenges for social cohesion on [enslaved people’s] home islands [that] took decades to rectify,” says Nicole. “Those who lost men had to rely on the elderly, on women and on the young to survive.” Familial relationships and cultural traditions practiced for centuries, like strategically arranged marriages between clans, disintegrated in the span of just a few decades.

Fiji’s cotton plantations rapidly declined in the early 1870s due to the industry’s resurgence in the American South. But both cotton and sugar cane remained significant industries in Queensland and New South Wales through the early 20th century, even after the fledgling Australian government passed federal legislation in 1901 requiring the deportation of Pacific Island laborers, including those who’d been blackbirded and their descendants, as part of a push to keep the country’s population white.

Deportations began in 1906, but not everyone who was given the choice trusted that they would be returned to their communities. In the past, individuals who’d been told they’d be brought home after their labor ended were dropped nowhere near the places from which they’d been taken—a situation that, due to conflict or a lack of resources, could result in death. At the same time, many wanted to remain in the country where they’d been forced to build new lives. Around 2,500 Pacific Islanders received exemptions or defied the order and stayed behind in Australia. Another 2,700 reportedly remained in Fiji in 1908.

After the mass deportations, Australia’s plantation workers were replaced by fairly paid white workers. Between 1919 and 1964, it was actually illegal for people of color to work in Queensland’s sugar industry.

 Reas complete story here

PRIME MINISTER MARAPE DISMISSES RESIGNATION CALLS, AMID LAW-AND-ORDER CHALLENGES

Tuesday, 4th March 2025

News Release 

Prime Minister James Marape has firmly dismissed calls for his resignation, characterizing them as politically motivated and a dangerous attempt to capitalize on social unrest for personal gain.

“From my perspective, it’s clear that Deputy Opposition Leader James Nomane and others in the opposition are trying to leverage social issues to gain political power. This pattern is becoming increasingly evident,” Prime Minister Marape stated.

He shared that shortly before January 10, 2024, a senior member of parliament approached him—alongside the Deputy Prime Minister and a provincial governor—urging him to resign due to perceived losses in public support and worsening lawlessness.

“Days after that conversation, the unrest on January 10 occurred, escalating the calls for my resignation. History seems to be repeating itself,” he remarked.

The Prime Minister emphasized that resigning is not a viable solution to the complex challenges facing Papua New Guinea.

“The role of a Prime Minister is not to step down during every crisis; it’s about providing leadership, coordinating efforts, and allocating resources to tackle national issues. That’s precisely what we are doing.”

He highlighted that in 2024, the government allocated unprecedented funding to law enforcement, taking proactive measures to address the problems rather than shifting blame.

Prime Minister Marape noted the Pangu Pati received a Section 63 invitation to form a government after winning 39 out of 118 seats—the most significant mandate since the Organic Law on Political Parties and Candidates was enacted in 2002.

“The law-and-order crisis in PNG is not a recent development; it stems from years of neglect. We inherited a police force in a state of disarray, lacking capability at all levels. Even the commissioner’s office had no resources or trained personnel,” he stated, assuring that he is actively working to restore discipline, resources, and leadership within the police. His efforts include:

Increased police recruitment and training, which had been neglected for over a decade.

Major reforms aimed at fortifying the police force through retraining officers and enhancing command structures.

Improved collaboration among security agencies, including Defense and the National Intelligence Office.

“Despite significant challenges, we are in the process of rebuilding our system. These changes will take time, and simply replacing the Prime Minister, Minister, or Police Commissioner will not yield overnight results.”

On Monday Prime Minister Marape convened a meeting with critical security agencies—including the Police, Defence, Attorney General, National Intelligence Office (NIO), and Correctional Services—and delivered a clear directive:

“It is time for these agencies to rise to the occasion and deliver results. Our government is providing more resources than any previous administration, and we expect reciprocal outcomes. It is not my role as Prime Minister to micromanage their responsibilities; they must work diligently to restore law and order. If anyone should be putting in 20-hour days, it is the police and heads of all security agencies.

“I’ve given explicit instructions regarding the restoration of fundamental police discipline and effectiveness, which include:

Evaluating police salaries and allowances, including risk compensation, ensuring that the state—not the community—bears the responsibility of compensating the families of officers who lose their lives in the line of duty.

Stopping unnecessary roadblocks and compensation demands, which obstruct the country’s operations and impede progress.

Strengthening police enforcement while ensuring the Police Minister, Police Commissioner, Defence Minister, and Commander take full accountability for enhancing discipline and efficiency.

“I have also tasked the Attorney General and Justice Secretary with reviewing and strengthening laws as part of PNG’s 50th anniversary reforms. This will include harsher penalties for those who harbor criminals or permit crimes on private property, holding communities accountable for criminal activities in their areas.

“As we advance with our Police Development and Capacity Programme, we are focused on increasing arrests and enhancing law enforcement efficacy. No one is above the law, and all offenders must face justice.”

Prime Minister Marape criticized certain opposition figures, including Nomane, for not using their influence to foster order in their respective communities.

“Nomane spends a lot of time in Goroka and is privy to who is behind the disruptions. Instead of leveraging his leadership to quell the unrest, he is further inciting it, demonstrating a lack of responsible leadership,” he stated.

He praised the tribal members in Eastern Highlands for their cooperation in reopening roads despite their grievances.

“The people of Eastern Highlands have shown commendable wisdom and responsibility by agreeing to the highway’s reopening. I want to personally thank them for heeding the authorities and prioritizing the greater good. Eastern Highlanders are inherently good people, and I am encouraged by their readiness to help restore order.”

Prime Minister Marape urged all political leaders to collaborate in addressing crime and instability instead of engaging in political maneuvers.

He reflected on how similar political tactics led to instability and economic decline in 2011, when opposition leaders campaigned for the removal of Sir Michael Somare.

“The same voices that sought Somare’s ousting in 2011 ultimately contributed to years of economic downturn and weakened governance. Now, similar rhetoric is being directed at me, detracting from the critical work being done to resolve long-standing issues.”

While acknowledging the persistent challenges related to law and order, Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed his dedication to pursuing long-term solutions rather than temporary political distractions.

“I don’t claim to be perfect, but we have initiated substantial reforms aimed at restoring law and order. Instead of inciting instability, I encourage emerging leaders like Nomane to take ownership of their roles and promote peace and the rule of law.

“Demanding the Prime Minister’s resignation is not a solution; it’s merely a distraction from the essential work at hand.”

NCD Governor Parkop on the Anniversary of the Passing of PNG Founding Father

Today on the anniversary of the passing of Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare we will join the rest of the country to celebrate his life and pay him highest respects for the journey he started for our people into nationhood 50 years ago.

 Today we honour his life and conviction too for our people and our country by starting another chapter in this journey Grand Chief and his peers started by making this bid on behalf of our capital city Port Moresby to have a professional football Team in the new Oceania Professional League set up by the Oceania Football Confederation. 

It is no coincidence that we submitted the bid on this day the Anniversary of the passing of the great architect of our nation PNG.

When Grand Chief Somare was asked how will be run and managed a country at and after independence without the professional technocrats etc. 

He replied that my economists, engineers, doctors, accountants, lawyers, etc are in their mothers womb. They will be born after independence and they run and manage the country. 

We in our capital city will not just celebrate his life but truly honour him by manifesting his dreams, this time in Sports. Today we start a new chapter in the great dream Somare had in 1968, an independent state capable of being as good or better than anyone else. 

We wish to make this great dream a reality in Football or Soccer. 

OFC has given deadline for bids by Friday the 28th of February, 2025 but we have submitted today in honour of our founding father of our nation Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare.

 He had great faith and belief in our people. We are confident Port Moresby City FC will be highly competitive and successful if we are granted a license by Oceania Football Confederation. The Somare journey continues.

Transnational Highway from Morobe to Port Moresby Near Completion

The transnational highway connecting Morobe Province to Papua New Guinea’s capital, Port Moresby, via Gulf Province is nearing completion, with just 40 more kilometers left to be constructed.

According to a source from the Department of Works and Highways, the project is expected to be finalized by June.

The highway, spanning a total of 158.9 kilometers, aims to bridge the missing link between Oiwa Junction in Aseki, Menyamya, and Epo Junction in Gulf Province. 

Significant progress has been made, with more than 100 kilometers of the road already constructed.

The source confirmed that two teams from the Department of Works and Highways are actively working on different sections of the project to expedite its completion.

Works Secretary Gibson Holemba recently stated in a local print media report that approximately 40 kilometers of the highway, extending from Oiwa Junction to Bema and then to Kotidanga in Gulf Province, is on track for completion by June.

Following the completion of this segment, Holemba noted that construction teams will shift their focus to the section connecting Kerema to Menyamya, further enhancing accessibility and connectivity in the region.

This report was filed by WANPIS AKO

#pngsun #news #ruralpng #pangu #gibsonholemba #menyamya #gulf #portmoresby #transnational #highway #50year #independence #migration #lawandorder #urbandrift

Story Worth the Wait: The Barike Band and Matalau Nakikus

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For years, as a journalist, I have searched for the untold story behind the legendary Barike Band of Rabaul—a band whose music became the heartbeat of a nation. I longed to speak with Matalau Nakikus, one of the last surviving members of the original Barike, to hear firsthand the journey of this musical powerhouse that shaped Papua New Guinea’s cultural identity.

Yet, despite my many attempts, the story always seemed just out of reach.

But today, as our nation stands on the brink of its 50th Independence Day celebrations, the moment I had been waiting for finally arrived. Matalau Nakikus himself graciously gave me the opportunity to sit with him and dive deep into the history of Barike—a story of music, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of Rabaul, once the true “Pearl of the Pacific”, until that fateful day in September 1994.

I grew up with the music of Barike during my high school years in the 1980s. Their songs were more than just melodies; they were anthems of identity, unity, and pride. Today, as Matalau spoke of Barike’s love for Rabaul and Papua New Guinea, their unwavering devotion to their people and their homeland, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude and admiration.

This is more than an interview. It is a chance to preserve the legacy of a band that united generations through their music—especially the timeless anthem “Wan Kantri”, a song that has done more to bring Papua New Guinea together than words ever could.

I can’t wait to share this extraordinary journey with you all.

Stay tuned as we unveil the story of a true Papua New Guinea musical gem. 🇵🇬🎶✨

#BarikeBand #WanKantri #PapuaNewGuinea #MusicalLegacy #Independence50

Great Grand Chief Michael Somare Remembrance Day 26 February 2025

National Capital District Commission led by NCD Governor Hon. Powes Parkop will be hosting a candle light vigil to remember Late Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare including past leaders of our great nation.

The organizing team wishes to advise city residents that due to the current weather condition, this memorial event planned for tomorrow evening at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium has now been moved to the Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium. 

Please take note and looking forward to seeing you all there.

Date: Wednesday 26th, February 2025

Time: 5:00pm- 8:00pm

Venue: Sir John Guise Stadium 

This special occasion is open to the general public.

NO ENTRY FEE!

Finally Getting an All Weather Road after 50 Years of Independence

After 50 years of Independence, our people in some of the most remote parts of the Sepik Plains are finally getting their roads and seeing cars and PMV trucks in their villages for the first time. Now they can jump on a PMV and go to Wewak instead of walking 6 hours to catch a PMV truck. 

We, the Yangoru-Saussia DDA, just competed an 18-kilometre road from Kiniambo to Sengera covering all the villages in between like Makambu and all the way down to Sengera Community School, which I use to reach by helicopter and by planes. I visited the completed road last week and told the contractor to build one more permanent bridge over the wet crossing between Kiniambo and Makambu. A lot of work has gone into this important road which will, when completed on the Wosera District section, will link us to Yenchen village on the mighty Sepik River. 

I was so happy to see the excitement of our people to finally receive an all weather road after 50 years of Independence. 

Yes, in Yangoru-Saussia we must not leave anyone behind. Wok Must Go Yet, there is no stopping. 

We will have the grand opening of the road at Sengera Primary School on Monday, April 7, 2025.

VANUATU EARTHQUAKE RELIEF TO BE HOSTED BY NCD GOVERNOR HON. POWES PARKOP

Charity Aid Music Concert to Help Melanesian brothers and sisters in City City Port Vila- Vanuatu.

This is a call out to City residents to part take in this Fundraising Drive to help raise funds for our Melansian brothers and sisters who fall victims of Earthquake recently.

The music concert is happening this Sunday 16th of February 2025 from 12:00 noon- 6:pm.

Tickets will be sold at the gate:

K5- Kids

K10 Adults

We will be having some of out of our legendary artists in PNG Music Industry that have united together to help raise funds for our brothers and sisters in Vanuatu. 

See flyer for full details about this charity drive.

WEWAK SEPIK AIRLINE

Bobby Gibbes (World War II Australian Pilot) played a key role in developing aviation in Papua New Guinea. 

He started Sepik Air in the 1950s with a single aircraft. His plane landed at various isolated airstrips in East Sepik; Ambunti, Angoram, Maprik, Karawari etc.

These airstrips were used for transporting cargo medical supplies and passengers especially missionaries. 

In 1972 Dennis Buchanan an Australian businessman and owner of Territory Airlines (TAL) "Talair" took over "Sepik Air". 

Under Buchanans leadership "Talair" grew into Papua New Guineas largest regional airline operating across the country. 

In the 1980s Talair faced financial difficulties and was acquired by Air Niugini marking the end of Talair as an independent airline.

Talair's routes and services were absorbed into Air Niuginis network which continues to serve as the national carrier of Papua New Guinea

(Picture: Wewak Sepik Airline aircraft drops off local passengers after a flight)

Papua New Guinea Achieves Significant Milestone in Maritime Sovereignty

On 6th February 2025, the Government of Papua New Guinea (PNG) celebrated a significant milestone in its maritime sovereignty by formally submitting its geographical coordinates under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). This submission solidifies PNG's territorial boundaries and maritime zones, safeguarding its economic and strategic interests, especially as the nation marks its 50th year of independence.

During the launch of the Marine Scientific Research Guidelines, Hon. Justin Tkatchenko MP, Minister for Foreign Affairs, highlighted the achievement as the culmination of over two decades of efforts, starting with initial submissions in 2002 and the latest update in 2024. This updated data on PNG’s baselines and the outer limits of its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) was supported by the Pacific Community (SPC) through the Pacific Maritime Boundaries Project and its consortium of partners. The technical expertise provided by SPC has been essential in ensuring that PNG’s maritime boundaries are clearly defined and internationally recognized.

The Government’s work on this project has also been bolstered by strong partnerships with international donors, including the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the United Kingdom, and the European Union. These collaborations have played a key role in helping PNG navigate the technical and legal challenges associated with the process.

The submission is especially timely, as climate change poses a growing threat to PNG’s maritime boundaries. Rising sea levels could potentially alter coastlines and shift maritime borders. Minister Tkatchenko emphasized that securing PNG’s maritime borders is vital to protect its sovereignty in the face of these environmental challenges. This assertion of maritime boundaries also has significant implications for fisheries enforcement, environmental conservation, and regional security, particularly in light of the increasing geopolitical interest in the Pacific region.

Aligned with the 2015 Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Declaration, PNG upholds the principle that maritime base points should remain permanent, regardless of climate-induced sea-level rise. This principle ensures that PNG’s sovereignty is preserved, and its maritime zones remain secure despite the impacts of climate change.

Minister Tkatchenko concluded by stating, “As the region faces growing security concerns, including illegal fishing, transnational crime, and geopolitical pressures, the clear delineation of PNG's maritime borders is critical. This achievement will enhance national security, support sustainable fisheries management, and strengthen PNG’s position in regional and international affairs.”

This milestone reinforces PNG's commitment to preserving its maritime rights and sovereignty, marking a major step forward in its long-term national and regional security strategy.