AGP Executive Report

UN Diplomacy: PM James Marape is in New York for the 81st UN General Assembly, with Deputy PM John Rosso acting while he represents PNG on national and Pacific priorities. Security & Justice: PNG Police say a raid in central Port Moresby rescued 39 Indonesian nationals allegedly held against their will, with four Chinese nationals arrested; investigators believe links to a wider transnational human trafficking network. Gender-Based Violence: Bel Isi used the International Day of Peace to urge practical action on family and sexual violence, while UNICEF stressed peace must mean everyday safety for women and children. Education Policy: The National Department of Education launched its GESI policy and implementation guidelines to make workplaces and schools safer and more inclusive. Humanitarian & Safety: In East New Britain, a banana boat capsized near Pigeon Island leaving one dead and four missing; authorities extended the search after earlier rescues. Defence & Training: PNGDF is using the Commander’s Cup to rebuild sporting pathways for soldiers, and Australia’s War College students visited PNGDF bases to deepen defence ties. Regional Mobility: Australia released the 10-country list eligible for the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility scheme, including PNG. Sports: PNG’s Bula Boys remain winless after a 1-0 loss to Vanuatu, with a key match against PNG next.

Rugby Governance: PNGRU moved to end its 2024 suspension by announcing governance reforms and a Sept 25 deadline, including a new compliance and oversight committee covering legal, audits, operations, development, women’s representation, safeguarding and compliance. Security & Arms Oversight: A new report renews scrutiny over PNGDF armoury and gun-storage concerns tied to Australia’s planned rifle supply under the Pukpuk defence treaty, with calls for clear standards and independent assessment. Justice for Health Worker: Kundiawa mourns Dr Robert Waiye, allegedly beaten to death on Independence Day, as calls grow for swift arrests and maximum penalties to protect health workers. Internal Displacement Policy: PNG is urged to treat internal displacement as a national development and rights issue, with a push for a National Internal Displacement Policy and Plan after major displacement and policy gaps were identified. Australia- PNG Diplomacy: Australia appointed Jamie Isbister as its new High Commissioner to PNG, replacing Ewen McDonald, as both countries deepen cooperation. El Niño Relief Funding: PM Marape says every PNG district will receive K2.5m for El Niño response, with provinces and Bougainville also funded, and the National Disaster Centre tasked to coordinate delivery. Sports (PNG-Australia): PNG’s Kumuls and Orchids will host Australia in Prime Minister’s XIII on Oct 3 at Santos National Football Stadium, with junior and senior matches across the day. Local Economy Push: Marape says districts must set aside 10% of funding for SMEs, urging communities to hold leaders accountable if support isn’t reaching local businesses. Maritime Tragedy: One dead and four missing after a banana boat capsized between Kokopo and Duke of York, with survivors receiving treatment in Rabaul. Bougainville Independence Process: Bougainvilleans are urged to stay patient as PNG parliament’s ratification of the 2019 independence vote is expected to take longer than many hoped.

PNG–Australia Defence: Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko has certified the PNG-Australia Pukpuk Defence Treaty after Parliament ratified it, saying it will raise standards in recruitment, training and force readiness and become operational once both sides exchange instruments. El Niño Relief: Prime Minister James Marape says every PNG district will receive K2.5m for urgent El Niño impacts, with provinces also getting K2.5m for coordination and the National Disaster Centre to monitor the response. UN General Assembly: Marape will head to New York for the 81st UN General Assembly, while Deputy PM John Rosso will handle government business at home. Opposition Pushback: Opposition Leader James Nomane rejects claims his Independence appearance with Marape was political compromise, insisting courtesy is not compromise. Australia Appoints High Commissioner: Australia names Jamie Isbister as its next High Commissioner to PNG, replacing Ewen McDonald. Education & Pay: The Teaching Service Commission warns teachers not to rely on media claims about a premature pay increase, saying any changes require DPM approval. Sports & Community: PNG will host Australia in the Prime Minister’s XIII on Oct 3 at Santos National Football Stadium, with junior, women’s and men’s matches; PNGDF also plans rugby league teams from next year. Maritime Safety: One person died and four remain missing after a banana boat capsized between Kokopo and Duke of York, with survivors rescued and treated in Rabaul.

El Niño Relief Rollout: Prime Minister James Marape says every PNG district will receive K2.5 million for immediate El Niño response, with provinces and Autonomous Bougainville also getting K2.5 million each, and an extra K5 million for the National Disaster Centre to coordinate and monitor delivery. UN General Assembly Focus: Marape is heading to the 81st UN General Assembly in New York, saying the funding will not be delayed and PNG will use the forum to raise national and regional concerns. Opposition Pushback: Opposition Leader James Nomane rejects claims his Independence Day appearance with PM Marape signals political compromise, insisting “courtesy is not compromise” and the Opposition will keep scrutinising government spending. District SME Funding: Marape also says 10% of district funding is meant to support SMEs, urging people to work through MPs and district administrations rather than chasing national offices for business grants. Teachers’ Pay Dispute: The Teaching Service Commission warns teachers not to rely on media claims of a premature pay rise, saying any changes require DPM approval. Security and Justice: Police report deadly NCD ethnic clashes linked to a phone theft, with suspects surrendered by one community and an urgent call for cooperation from the other. Gun Amnesty Update: In Hela, about 50 illegal firearms were displayed after voluntary surrender, with Police Minister Sir John Pundari extending the grace period and warning remaining holders to hand in guns by December 15. Defence Cooperation: PNG’s Foreign Minister certifies the PNG–Australia Defence Treaty (“Pukpuk Treaty”) after Parliament ratified it, aiming to modernise PNGDF standards and interoperability. PNGDF Connectivity Trial: PNGDF begins a Starlink trial at Murray Barracks and Force Support Battalion to improve real-time communications across remote locations. Port Moresby Governance: NCDC calls for stronger municipal management and better service delivery as the capital moves into its next growth phase.

District Funding for SMEs: PM James Marape says each district should channel 10% of its funding to Small and Medium Enterprises, with people urged to approach MPs and district administrations—not the PM’s Office—for business support. Public Order in NCD: ACP Benjamin Turi reports deadly MNE ethnic clashes in Port Moresby after an alleged phone theft, with suspects surrendered by the Kagua community and an urgent call for Porane/Hela leaders to cooperate as homicide units investigate. Defence Treaty Certified: Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko certifies the PNG–Australia Defence Treaty (“Pukpuk Treaty”) after Parliament ratified it, saying it will modernise PNGDF recruitment, training and readiness. Teacher Pay Dispute: The Teaching Service Commission rejects claims by the PNG Teachers Association president about a premature pay rise, warning teachers not to rely on media speculation and directing them to official TSC updates. Security Communications Upgrade: PNG Defence Force begins a Starlink trial at Murray Barracks and Force Support Battalion to improve real-time connectivity for remote deployments. Port Moresby Growth Management: NCDC calls for stronger municipal management and better service delivery as the capital moves into its next growth phase. Gun Amnesty Push in Highlands: About 50 illegal firearms are surrendered in Tari, with Police Minister Sir John Pundari extending the grace period and warning remaining holders to hand in weapons by December 15. Independence Diplomacy: Marape is set to travel to the UN General Assembly in New York to represent PNG on national and regional priorities. Food Security Warning: El Niño conditions are bringing dry weather and frost that are destroying crops and tightening water supplies in parts of PNG.

Teacher Pay Dispute: PNG’s Teaching Service Commission acting chairman Maini Mike Ugaia says recent PNG Teachers Association claims about a “premature” pay rise are untrue and misleading, warning teachers not to rely on media speculation and stressing any salary changes must be approved by the Department of Personnel Management. Prime Minister’s Department Push: PM James Marape urged staff in the Prime Minister’s Department to work harder, saying they serve as the lead department and must help drive PNG forward. Defence Connectivity Upgrade: PNG Defence Force has begun a Starlink satellite internet trial at Murray Barracks and Force Support Battalion to improve real-time communications across remote locations, with plans to expand to other bases. Police Gun Amnesty Deadline: Police Minister Sir John Pundari says about 50 illegal firearms were surrendered in Tari and warns remaining holders in Enga, Hela and Southern Highlands to hand in weapons by December 15. Capital Management Focus: NCDC calls for stronger municipal management and better service delivery as Port Moresby enters its next growth phase, with emphasis on planning, approvals and accountability. El Niño Impacts: ABC reports frost and prolonged dry weather linked to El Niño are damaging crops and shrinking water supplies in PNG highlands, raising fears of wider food insecurity. Bougainville/Mines & LNG: Marape says Papua LNG is moving toward Final Investment Decision with a December 15 sunset date, while separate coverage highlights ongoing pressure around Panguna mine reopening. Regional Health Alert: Fiji declared a national HIV emergency after UNAIDS data showed infections rising sharply, with expanded testing and treatment efforts announced.

PNG Justice & Health Workers: Opposition Leader James Nomane demands full legal action after Kundiawa doctor Robert Waiye was killed on Independence Day, urging police to keep a thorough investigation as six arrests are reported. Gun Amnesty Results: About 50 high-powered illegal firearms were surrendered in Tari under PNG’s national gun amnesty, with Police Minister Sir John Pundari warning remaining holders to surrender by Dec 15. Defence Connectivity: PNG Defence Force is trialling Starlink satellite internet at Murray Barracks and Force Support Battalion to improve real-time communications and coordination in remote areas. Port Moresby City Management: NCDC calls for stronger municipal management and better service delivery as the capital moves into its next growth phase, stressing accountability and smoother approvals for business. Independence & Community Leadership: Minister Miki Kaeok used Enga’s Independence celebrations to push leadership and grassroots empowerment, while Milne Bay MP Ricky Morris urged locals to take ownership of land, resources and local business. HIV Emergency (Regional): Fiji declared a national HIV emergency after UNAIDS data showed infections rising sharply, prompting expanded testing and treatment. El Niño Impacts: ABC reports frost and prolonged dry weather are damaging crops and shrinking water supplies in PNG’s highlands, raising fears of wider food insecurity. Sports & Governance: PNG NRLC season ends on a positive note with praise for fan conduct, and the Black Queens’ bonuses/per diems issue is addressed in Parliament. Energy Investment Watch: Papua LNG is reported to be moving toward Final Investment Decision, with a Dec 15 sunset date highlighted by PM Marape.

PNGDF Connectivity Upgrade: The Papua New Guinea Defence Force has started a Starlink satellite internet trial at Murray Barracks and the Force Support Battalion to improve real-time links with headquarters and troops in remote areas, with possible expansion to other bases. Port Moresby City Management: The NCDC is urging stronger municipal planning, faster approvals, better compliance, and closer public-private cooperation as the capital moves into its next growth phase after Independence. El Niño Impacts: ABC reports frost and prolonged dry weather are damaging crops and shrinking water supplies in highland communities, raising fears of wider food and drinking-water shortages. Papua LNG Progress: Prime Minister James Marape says Papua LNG is moving toward its Final Investment Decision, with a key sunset date of 15 December 2026 and work underway on landowner and provincial processes. Fiji HIV Emergency (Regional Watch): Fiji has declared a national HIV emergency after UNAIDS data showed infections rising 12-fold over 15 years, prompting expanded testing and treatment. Visa Waiver Update: The US has published the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program list, including Papua New Guinea among 12 eligible countries.

City Management Focus: NCDC says Port Moresby must shift from “reflection to implementation” with tighter planning, permitting and compliance so investors get a predictable municipal environment. Petroleum Push: PM James Marape says Papua LNG is moving toward Final Investment Decision, with a 15 December 2026 sunset date and new vice-minister support to clear landowner and provincial processes. Health Crisis Watch: Fiji has declared an HIV national emergency after UNAIDS data showed infections rising to about 1 in 60 adults, with major gaps in testing and treatment prompting a “no more business as usual” response. Climate Strain on Food: El Niño conditions are bringing frost and prolonged dry weather, with farmers reporting destroyed crops and shrinking water supplies in highland areas. Utilities Turnaround Plan: NEOS Advisory outlines a practical framework for fixing electricity, water and gas distribution by restoring management control, commercial discipline and trustworthy data before new capital delivers results. Sports & Youth Accountability: Sports Minister Kofi Adams told Parliament the Black Queens are not owed any outstanding bonuses or per diems, while Enga’s Peace and Unity Games wrapped up as a youth peace-building push. Regional Resources Agenda: PNG is urging a fairer tuna deal for Pacific “Large Ocean States,” moving from raw extraction to stronger local processing and value-chain participation.

Police & Public Safety: Chief Inspector James Luan marked 40 years in the Lae police service, serving continuously in the city since joining in 1985. Gun Amnesty Debate: As the national firearms amnesty ends on Independence Day, calls are growing to extend it by two more weeks to capture remaining illegal guns before strict enforcement begins. Independence in Conflict-Affected Communities: In Enga’s Kasi ward, councillor Dick Iparu led early Independence celebrations despite the area being torn by fighting and underfunding, urging unity after years of loss. Women’s Leadership & Religion: Port Moresby hosted the ELC-PNG Women’s Conference with thousands attending; an open letter questioned the absence of the Huon Gulf minister, while the Governor-General highlighted women’s strength and role in spreading faith. Health & Justice: A doctor in Kundiawa, Simbu, died after an alleged assault; police say seven suspects are in custody. Regional Cooperation: PNG will host 50 Vanuatu police recruits next year for joint training at Bomana to strengthen cross-border policing links. Fisheries Policy: Fisheries Minister Jelta Wong pushed for Pacific control of tuna value chains, backing initiatives like East New Britain and tuna hubs. Financial Oversight: Bank of PNG issued a formal warning to BSP over alleged anti-money laundering/counter-terrorism financing breaches. Sports: PNG’s Kapuls kicked off the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup in Suva with a win over Vanuatu, while the Black Queens’ minister told Parliament they are owed no outstanding bonuses or per diems.

Appointments & 2027 Politics: PM James Marape swore in two new vice ministers—Vincent Kumura (Office of the PM) and Gidron Karipe (Petroleum)—as the government ramps up leadership development ahead of the 2027 election. Petroleum Update: Marape said Papua LNG is moving toward Final Investment Decision, with Vice-Minister Karipe set to help drive progress with landowners and project partners. Fisheries & Pacific Value: Fisheries Minister Jelta Wong told Tuna 2026 in Bangkok the Pacific must shift from exporting raw tuna to taking a bigger role across the value chain, with PNG pushing tuna hubs and downstream investment. Financial Integrity: PNG’s central bank warned Bank South Pacific over alleged anti-money laundering/counter-terror financing breaches, including concerns about politically exposed persons and suspicious payments. Financial Inclusion: TISA Bank backed agency banking in Amazon Bay, launching services in Kurere Asiaro Village to cut travel costs for deposits and account access. Regional Policing: Vanuatu police recruits will train in Port Moresby at Bomana Centre of Excellence next year, strengthening cross-border law enforcement links. Health & Safety: A doctor died after an alleged assault in Kundiawa, with seven suspects in custody as police investigate. Independence & Governance: Multiple Independence messages focused on accountability, performance, and better resource management as PNG enters its next 50 years.

Independence Reset & Governance: As PNG marks 51 years, Fisheries Minister Jelta Wong says natural resources must be treated as long-term economic assets, with stronger policies and sustainability so communities benefit fairly. Public Service & Accountability: Prime Minister James Marape urged citizens to replace excuses with effort, and called on men to take responsibility and leadership “with grace, love and care.” Security & Enforcement: Marape praised Highlands leaders in Hela and Southern Highlands for gun surrender efforts, while also warning that after the amnesty, illegal firearms will face firm enforcement. State Obligations: A renewed push is growing over unpaid government obligations, including claims of about K182 million in superannuation arrears to retired public servants. Data for Development: National Statistician Alfred Mokae stressed that statistics are essential for planning and improving services, not just flag-colour celebrations. Community & Faith: Madang Governor Ramsey Pariwa backed an ELC-PNG circuit conference, and a new priest’s residence in Wapenamanda was blessed in memory of Fr. Lawrence Kambao. Regional Context: Australia announced lower specialist-skills visa fees for eligible citizens including PNG, and US forces trained PNGDF and civilians in disaster response in Lae.

Independence 51st anniversary: Prime Minister James Marape used Independence Hill to push a “next 50 years” agenda, saying PNG must prioritise quality education and back it with K11 billion, while also demanding discipline and effort from young people. Unity and responsibility: NCD Governor urged Papua New Guineans to stay united despite diversity, and Deputy PM John Rosso challenged citizens to reset their mindset and ask what PNG wants for the next generation. Labour’s role: Sam Basil Jr said workers and the labour movement helped build the country’s first 50 years, calling for recognition of frontline services during public holidays. Local reflections across provinces: West Sepik was told to “reset” after ongoing gaps in roads, water, sanitation, power, health and education; Lae’s Rosso echoed the “what comes next” theme. Public services pressure: The Public Employees Association demanded the Government pay about K182 million in unpaid employer superannuation contributions, warning retirees have not received full benefits. Economy watch: BSP reported forex order times improving to “on demand to two weeks,” with market balance driven by export receipts, while price—not availability—becoming the key issue. International ties: Solomon Islands PM Matthew Wale and UAE leaders sent congratulations to PNG leaders and people.

Independence Day Observed Differently: Western Highlands Governor Wai Rapa says the province will hold a quiet 51st Independence Day after past public events turned violent, urging youth to celebrate peacefully and take responsibility. Education First for the Next 50 Years: Dame Maria Kopkop told a Port Moresby pre-Independence event that education is the “foundation” for future leaders, while UNPNG ICT academic Russel Deka Harada urged PNG to use its youth, culture and resources to build jobs and a safer nation. Church-Led Celebrations in Oro: Northern Province’s churches led low-key Independence activities in Popondetta, with Governor Garry Juffa calling for unity and reminding communities to consider El Niño impacts. Superannuation Pressure on Government: The Public Employees Association demanded the National Government immediately pay about K182 million in unpaid employer super contributions (April–August), warning retirees are not receiving full benefits. Forex Market Eases, But Price Matters: Banks report improved foreign exchange access and faster clearing for orders, with the market “in balance” for about a year, though costs are rising as the kina weakens. Supplementary Budget Targets Fuel and El Niño: PNG’s supplementary budget adds K1.33b for fuel price support and K1.165b for El Niño mitigation as rainfall and hydro risks bite. Panguna Security Shock: PNG’s trade minister says he warned an Indian miner against investing in Panguna, after an attack and arson at the mine site drew condemnation from Bougainville leaders. Police Reserve Recruitment: Police will pilot national reserve recruitment in Northern Province, aiming for up to 200 reserve personnel per province, with accommodation still a major hurdle. Independence Hill Unity: Prime Minister James Marape urged citizens to “shoulder our own burden” and push a culture of performance, discipline and accountability. Climate Stress Shows Up on Farms: Reports of frost and crop damage in Central Province add to El Niño fears for food and water security. Regional Diplomacy and Media: Australia sent Independence wishes to PNG, while Fiji will host the Pacific Media Summit in Savusavu next week, focusing on remote reporting and digital innovation.

Former PM Perjury Case: Police say the investigation file for former Ialibu Pangia MP Peter O’Neill’s perjury charge is complete, with court directions set for submissions and a hearing in November. Independence & Public Safety: As PNG marks 51 years of independence, Police Minister Sir John Pundari urged citizens to cooperate, surrender illegal guns, and reject corruption and tribal violence. Anti-Corruption Push: ICAC Acting Commissioner Don Sawong used the Independence message to call for shared responsibility to fight bribery and protect public services. Bougainville Tensions Over Panguna: A Panguna arson attack damaged equipment at a Lloyds Metals camp, with PNG’s trade minister claiming he warned the company against investing; Bougainville leaders condemned the violence while insisting redevelopment will continue. Health & Services: Government launched a region-wide HPV vaccination drive for girls, and BPNG reported improved foreign exchange access with inflation easing but risks ahead. PNGDF Sports & Inclusion: PNGDF Commander Rear Admiral Philip Polewara ordered permanent men’s and women’s rugby union teams to restore fitness and sporting pride. Business & Economy: SICCI called for electricity reform to boost private sector growth, while businesses reported better forex access and optimism around Papua LNG. Election Reminder: A public message urged voters to choose leaders with integrity and competence, not short-term gifts.

Bougainville Mine Security: Fresh arson and clashes at Panguna have damaged heavy machinery and left personnel assaulted, adding pressure to Bougainville’s push to restart the copper and gold project. Police & Community Safety: Police Minister Sir John Pundari urged citizens to cooperate, surrender illegal guns, and tackle tribal fighting, gender violence and drug abuse ahead of Independence. Independence Message on Integrity: ICAC Acting Commissioner Don Sawong used the 51st Independence build-up to warn that corruption still blocks education, healthcare and development, calling it a shared national duty. Independence Leadership & Economy: PM Marape told citizens the next 50 years “starts now,” pointing to economic growth and calling for better implementation and accountability. PNGDF Sports Inclusion: PNGDF Commander Polewara ordered a permanent women’s rugby squad as the Commander’s Cup launched. NRL Chiefs Name Fight: NZ Rugby says it has Chiefs trademarks and is pushing back against the NRL’s PNG Chiefs branding, setting up a legal showdown. Mining Investment Push: Mining Minister Solan Loifa says PNG is open to Chinese mining investment, but reforms must speed approvals and deliver fair benefits to landowners. Border Funding Warning: A border commander in Vanimo urged government to fund border posts and frontline logistics, warning sovereignty is at risk without support. Local Development Grants: Digicel PNG Foundation opened 2027 community grants, while Australia-backed upgrades are set to improve Kokopo Market and early childhood education at Sonoma Adventist College. Youth Jobs in New Ireland: A K1m commitment will support 574 youths into primary industries under the National Youth Engagement Strategy pilot rollout.