tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65004338151455631572024-02-22T23:32:30.512+10:00PNGBLOGSTips and Contact: PNGBLOGS@GMAIL.COMUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger4794125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-17659403942560136842024-02-20T06:10:00.004+10:002024-02-20T06:10:45.577+10:00Connect PNG Unveiled: A Tale of Ambition, Scandal, and the Quest for Accountability<p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg83UKPJRYdZRCStjHVHAiskkiyaVd8DMpzXj3ovvgi4A4LiHISqz3pyZvdVlrj4cTHN9GTfR2mnUx33KAA-5R-3ClvOtlGVT__YFJabKYCUYLSwfuy5zOLHBS7QEBGz51a4cqo3t7FzSgjmhTGi3n5hWyV8VFvboL6NRvEhgu_1q8VNCC9bSGbAtfGhKM/s1201/jmipwenz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><img border="0" data-original-height="443" data-original-width="1201" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg83UKPJRYdZRCStjHVHAiskkiyaVd8DMpzXj3ovvgi4A4LiHISqz3pyZvdVlrj4cTHN9GTfR2mnUx33KAA-5R-3ClvOtlGVT__YFJabKYCUYLSwfuy5zOLHBS7QEBGz51a4cqo3t7FzSgjmhTGi3n5hWyV8VFvboL6NRvEhgu_1q8VNCC9bSGbAtfGhKM/w640-h236/jmipwenz.jpg" width="640" /></a></p><h3 style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 1.25em; line-height: 1.6; margin: 0px 0px 0.5rem; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 1.25em;"><i style="font-weight: 400;">By </i>M.J Passingan<span style="font-weight: 400;"><br />In the heart of Papua New Guinea (PNG), a storm brews over the ambitious Connect PNG initiative, a program that ostensibly aims to revolutionize the nation's infrastructure landscape. What was launched with the promise of connecting remote communities and fostering economic growth has spiraled into a scandal of monumental proportions, exposing the underbelly of political maneuvering and alleged financial misconduct at the highest levels of government.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; margin: 1.25em 0px;">The controversy came to light when a brave whistleblower leaked Department of Finance records, revealing a staggering K350 million payment to certain Connect PNG contractors on the same day as the Port Moresby riots. This revelation sent shockwaves through the nation, drawing sharp criticism from notable figures, including former Prime Minister Peter O’Neill. Known for his outspoken nature, O’Neill condemned the exploitation of a noble initiative for what he described as the largest and most sophisticated money laundering scheme in PNG's history.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; margin: 1.25em 0px;">O’Neill, while expressing support for the initiative's infrastructure goals and Prime Minister James Marape's developmental aspirations, couldn't hide his dismay at the blatant misuse of taxpayer money and donor contributions. Among the questionable transactions was a K13 million payment to Ipwenz Construction, a company owned by a figure previously caught in a controversial incident involving cash transportation with Marape's son. This incident, among others, painted a grim picture of prioritization, where political affiliations seemingly dictated the flow of substantial public funds at the expense of critical national needs.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; margin: 1.25em 0px;">The former Prime Minister's critique extended beyond specific payments, touching on the broader implications of such practices for PNG's democratic and economic fabric. He lambasted the government's apparent indifference to the plight of ordinary Papua New Guineans and the prioritization of political allegiances over public welfare. The misuse of Connect PNG as a conduit for enriching political allies on a day marked by national distress—the Port Moresby riots—was particularly galling. It underscored a disturbing breach of trust between the government and its citizens, who are increasingly wary of the regime's motives and actions.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; margin: 1.25em 0px;">O’Neill's call for accountability resonated across PNG, highlighting the urgent need for transparency in governmental operations. His assertions about the systematic diversion of funds through Connect PNG not only questioned the integrity of current development initiatives but also raised concerns about the sustainability of the nation's economic policies. The scandal serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges facing anti-corruption efforts in PNG, where political will and institutional reforms are critical to restoring public confidence in governance.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(227, 227, 227); box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px;">As PNG grapples with the fallout from these revelations, the Connect PNG scandal stands as a testament to the complex interplay between development aspirations and governance realities. The controversy not only challenges the current administration's commitment to transparency and accountability but also calls into question the viability of future infrastructure projects. For a nation striving to balance economic development with equitable governance, the unfolding drama around Connect PNG may well be a defining moment in its pursuit of a more connected, transparent, and accountable future.</p></h3>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-7119882502450102432024-01-31T11:27:00.006+10:002024-01-31T11:27:42.410+10:00 Support for Hon. Belden Namah as a Prime Ministerial Candidate<p><i style="color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i style="color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRmPO8T9s-XVQxboR6IJAUo0cMBUo67vVm-VKoJVZsLKFuAPcrgJGo3_c3ymsR1G_znuvYDobHq_JgHZlaV9hzf4CfZ38ltpIprawIsE3xhAPToBy6VcF7Vp_t9VHnYRQ_JIus9dZxfmqRcxDRWkDm0tDUhfoLgw0GMXrwilN0KmzfQLUToTU8dAxhvrI/s805/18cpnamah.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="805" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRmPO8T9s-XVQxboR6IJAUo0cMBUo67vVm-VKoJVZsLKFuAPcrgJGo3_c3ymsR1G_znuvYDobHq_JgHZlaV9hzf4CfZ38ltpIprawIsE3xhAPToBy6VcF7Vp_t9VHnYRQ_JIus9dZxfmqRcxDRWkDm0tDUhfoLgw0GMXrwilN0KmzfQLUToTU8dAxhvrI/w640-h358/18cpnamah.png" width="640" /></a></i></div><i style="color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>by:</i><span style="color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> Retivi John Alo</span><p></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I am writing to express my unwavering support for Hon. Belden Namah as a potential candidate for Prime Minister in the upcoming Vote of No Confidence, should he choose to run. Namah has proven himself to be an outstanding leader with a deep commitment to the welfare of Papua New Guinea's citizens.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Namah's leadership is characterized by his insightful understanding of our nation's economic and social issues, demonstrating a remarkable ability to foresee and tackle challenges before they become critical. His strategic and proactive stance on governance, combined with his experience and bravery demonstrated during his military service and involvement in the Bougainville Crisis, highlight his capability to lead with courage and a forward-thinking approach.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">What truly distinguishes Namah is his compelling personal journey of overcoming hardships, including his educational challenges and the compassion he received from the Moses couple. These experiences have imbued him with resilience and empathy, essential qualities for connecting with and effectively serving the populace.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Namah’s actions during the Bougainville Crisis and his continuous advocacy for the nation exemplify his patriotism and dedication. His direct and effective leadership style, informed by a profound understanding of Papua New Guinea's needs, positions him as a formidable candidate for Prime Minister.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">I urge my fellow citizens to support leaders like Namah, who prioritize the country's welfare above personal interests. It is crucial for us to advocate for leadership that embodies integrity, commitment, and a sincere dedication to serving Papua New Guinea. We must encourage our Local Members to select a candidate based on merit, character, and the ability to lead our country through its current challenges.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">As we face these turbulent times, it is evident that Hon. Belden Namah possesses the exceptional qualities required for effective leadership. I am confident in his ability to serve as an exemplary Prime Minister and invite others to join me in this crucial dialogue, urging our Members of Parliament to make decisions that reflect the best interests of our nation.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-26721480711969342062024-01-31T11:16:00.003+10:002024-01-31T11:16:52.746+10:00 Why government is trying to send away the jobless <p><i></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZid6q8vp3M0auYjFeLsqg3Ecsu6Ns-MnDfvKfQ05sY0dKP1XTa48GGFq-wIQQhZXbS1WnL0SHR8duCaLga7eZ9YIJf3BPCCVNrp37lVjpQCxEFZCveUdGko3kG_JrXiJ67TN-xYiRqk2wlq8jy1tj5frPmL_7CTrzZRdVgmzY1Z87N67iBsLeyZjIv_8/s1000/Students-at-school-in-West-Britain-Papua-New-Guinea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZid6q8vp3M0auYjFeLsqg3Ecsu6Ns-MnDfvKfQ05sY0dKP1XTa48GGFq-wIQQhZXbS1WnL0SHR8duCaLga7eZ9YIJf3BPCCVNrp37lVjpQCxEFZCveUdGko3kG_JrXiJ67TN-xYiRqk2wlq8jy1tj5frPmL_7CTrzZRdVgmzY1Z87N67iBsLeyZjIv_8/w640-h426/Students-at-school-in-West-Britain-Papua-New-Guinea.jpg" width="640" /></a></i></div><i><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>by </i>NELSON WANDI <p></p><p>Why government is trying to send jobless or unemployed people back to their village, as a substitute of creating job opportunity for them.</p><p>And why government is trying to create criminal law to hurt vulnerable people in the city?</p><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">Jobless majorities refers to doable participants of a public unable to get the paid jobs. The thought of jobless or unemployed people may fluctuate depending on amount of education levels attained, some left with work experience, and most of school drop outs unable to continue education due to financial constraints, some discontinue education with bad educational performance.</div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">Jobless majorities are out in the streets and are staying back in the rural community because of these factors, but governments failed to address such issue arises.However, it is important to note that not all jobless individuals end up on the streets.</div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto"> Many actively seek employment opportunities and strive to improve their situation. It is often a complex combination of individual circumstances, societal factors, and systemic issues that contribute to the challenges faced by jobless individuals.</div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">The issue of unemployment can be complex and multifaceted, influenced by several factors including government policies, economic conditions, and social dynamics. It is very true in Papua New Guinea that a lack of job opportunities can contribute to joblessness, it is important to consider various aspects.</div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">Corruption within government institutions can have detrimental effects on economic development and job creation. When resources meant for public welfare are misused or embezzled, it can hinder the growth of industries, infrastructure, and entrepreneurship. This, in turn, can limit job prospects and exacerbate unemployment issues.</div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">As more in line, systemic issues such as inadequate education and skills training programs, limited access to capital for small businesses, and bureaucratic red tape can also impede job creation. </div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">Addressing these underlying challenges requires comprehensive measures that aim to promote transparency, strengthen institutions, foster entrepreneurship, and invest in education and skills development.</div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto"> It's worth noting that individual circumstances can vary significantly, and not all jobless individuals stay home or take to the streets due solely to corrupt governments. </div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">Unemployment can stem from a myriad of reasons, including economic downturns, technological advancements, industry shifts, or personal circumstances. Understanding these complexities helps in formulating effective and holistic approaches to tackle unemployment and foster inclusive economic growth.</div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">When these very jobless people unable to locate the job and get employed are not closely established to the government, but most of them naturally possess one-of-a-kind crafts to earn a every day living, without government intervention in promoting employment in the country.</div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">As many are engaged in informal sectors business. They specialise in exclusive occupation of jobs. Some do research to build their skills up developing avenues of job spaces, as some doing carvings for sales, paintings, accumulating tin cans and bottles for sales and more as like doing flower agriculture in the test gardens. </div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">Additionally, many more fascinating spin off casual businessess are carried on with huge marketing based ideas of underprivileged people lies in betelnut merchandising everywhere, in shop fronts, office gates, and at traffic lights, at activity arenas and in any sections of social gatherings and few greater to listing here.</div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">Many more of business thoughts are shared and utilized in a variety of areas of skills just to earn incomes. Even a domestic shippings of agriculture soft commodities from Highlands regions are exported to business houses in the city. These garden produce are distributed heavily to feed the city residents. </div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">However, jobless people study a lot to make a stable livings in the cities and at the domestic front, and does no longer require government to intervene most of the time. </div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">After undertaking risk of doing unregistered businesses around the corners, jobless individuals afford to pay the heavy price for paying tax to the government, paying school fees for their children, build homes for their families, provide everyday food on the table, and also do savings for the future use.</div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">These classes of people are the real heroes fight to survive with the corrupt government in the country. As the governments seem bullying to the jobless, vagrants, destitutes, sick and those are already living beyond the poverty line.</div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">If the case of overcrowding jobless people in the city are growing then it doesn't signals government to take criminal measures against them. It requires government to closely look into needs and demands of the people who are sick - provide medicine for them, and provide job opportunity for the jobless people who are filling the space in the city, build proper housing for vagrants and homeless.</div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">For such corrupt government we Papua New Guinea have today should make a complete list of disadvantaged group of people who derives from poverty line, and begin to take a holistic approach by providing greater initiatives. That is to allocate huge funding to the jobless if this case of jobless is worrying the government, another big portions of budget should be allocated to vagrants and homeless people to improve their living conditions, and improve health facilities in the city.</div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">Government knows well from its perspective, having views from such sterile condition and building criminal policies and proposing laws to punish people is an all ineffective ideas from the government to neglect and suffer her people. It's not about managing the people and country in a criminal ways by taking these measures to hurt people down in sorrow and suffer them in poverty.</div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">The recent proposed vagrancy law is not a law that will help government to resolve issues but it's a law that will give powers to police to kill jobless, vagrants, homeless and sick people who are in deep needs, who are vulnerable.</div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">As I am writing, our country is in a fragile state, and our government is sensing things differently, and does not have visions to improve the deteriorating factors of human conditions. There's no promotion in humanity as we can able to see.</div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">The government is blind enough to open up eyes to find people in dire needs, more likely to locate and rise up who are socially and economically handicapped. Barriers to jobless and vagrants are not actually a issue government should count on, it's a failure from within government's responsibilities.</div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">When failures exist within the government itself, we are disgusted to see all forms of corruption is rising everywhere from the government to their departments, economic to political, and country is sinking down to the toilet together with our recycled leaders.</div><div dir="auto"><br /></div><div dir="auto">By Nelson Wandi</div><div class="yj6qo"></div><div class="adL" dir="auto"><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;" /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-21106854546033958092024-01-31T11:12:00.004+10:002024-01-31T11:12:49.300+10:00 To create vagrancy law in poor country is a bad choice indeed. It's criminal in nature.<p><i></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCRG4EcpL7C6YTU1z55HYFwKRCBxgljUnh6ir5P_zwBiiT_rB_W0Ii55_BtOElnn365egGZIIcqzV0jLKr4iQF_q-oY159JHlJdSkE6yuy-9YkQQBfZPGuxEFtIDqMKaG_Xyhs9Upk5Gjru81cLR1wp_Eq65VZ29sAI8yKs-S3P-Vs_y-DarDpmSkRRmY/s933/424600937_732915565471941_379769807524223004_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="933" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCRG4EcpL7C6YTU1z55HYFwKRCBxgljUnh6ir5P_zwBiiT_rB_W0Ii55_BtOElnn365egGZIIcqzV0jLKr4iQF_q-oY159JHlJdSkE6yuy-9YkQQBfZPGuxEFtIDqMKaG_Xyhs9Upk5Gjru81cLR1wp_Eq65VZ29sAI8yKs-S3P-Vs_y-DarDpmSkRRmY/w494-h640/424600937_732915565471941_379769807524223004_n.jpg" width="494" /></a></i></div><i><br />by </i>NELSON WANDI<p></p><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Creating vagrancy laws in a poor country can indeed be a complex issue with both potential benefits and drawbacks. On one hand, proponents argue that such laws can address concerns related to public safety, reduce crime rates, and maintain social order. By enforcing regulations on loitering, begging, or sleeping in public spaces, authorities may aim to discourage criminal activities and protect citizens from potential harm.</div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">However, there are significant criticisms of vagrancy laws as well. Critics argue that these laws disproportionately target vulnerable populations, including individuals experiencing homelessness, poverty, or mental health issues. Such laws may further marginalize already disadvantaged groups, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality.</div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Moreover, implementing vagrancy laws could divert resources away from addressing the root causes of homelessness and poverty. Instead of criminalizing individuals, efforts should focus on providing social support, access to affordable housing, healthcare, and employment opportunities. These broader approaches can be more effective in addressing the underlying systemic issues contributing to vagrancy.</div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Ultimately, the decision to establish vagrancy laws in a poor country requires careful consideration of its potential impact on human rights, social justice, and long-term socioeconomic development. Alternative strategies that prioritize compassion, inclusivity, and sustainable solutions are often seen as more conducive to tackling homelessness and poverty effectively.</div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">To enact vagrancy law is to criminalize vulnerable people who need help from government.</div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Enacting vagrancy laws can indeed have unintended consequences and may criminalize vulnerable individuals who need assistance. Vagrancy laws typically target people without a fixed address or those engaged in activities such as begging or loitering. While the intention behind these laws may be to maintain public order or discourage certain behaviors, it is essential to consider the larger context.</div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Criminalizing homelessness or poverty can perpetuate cycles of marginalization and hinder access to necessary support systems. Instead, a more comprehensive approach is often advocated, focusing on addressing the root causes of homelessness and providing assistance to those in need. This can include initiatives such as affordable housing programs, social services, mental health support, job training, and education. By taking a compassionate and holistic approach, governments can better serve vulnerable populations and promote their overall well-being.</div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">It's important to acknowledge that perspectives on this issue can vary, and there are ongoing discussions about the most effective methods for assisting homeless individuals while maintaining community well-being. Balancing the needs of the marginalized with broader societal concerns is a complex challenge that requires thoughtful consideration and collaboration among various stakeholders.</div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Vagrancy law is not a solution to address law and order issues in the country .</div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I agree that vagrancy laws may not be the most effective solution to address law and order issues in a country. While these laws criminalize the act of being homeless or without a permanent residence, they often fail to address the root causes of homelessness or provide meaningful support to those in need.</div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Homelessness is a complex issue that can stem from various factors such as economic instability, mental health challenges, substance abuse, or lack of affordable housing. Instead of focusing solely on punitive measures like vagrancy laws, a more comprehensive approach would involve addressing the underlying causes.</div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Efforts should be made to provide affordable housing options, increase access to mental health services and addiction treatment programs, and implement social welfare policies that help individuals reintegrate into society. Collaborative efforts between governmental agencies, nonprofits, and community organizations are crucial to providing sustainable solutions for homelessness.</div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Additionally, education and awareness programs can help challenge societal stigmas associated with homelessness and promote empathy and understanding. By adopting a holistic approach that combines social support systems, policy reforms, and community engagement, we can strive towards a more compassionate and effective response to address law and order issues related to homelessness.</div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></div><div dir="auto" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">By Nelson Wandi</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-73897502913876651702024-01-18T08:23:00.004+10:002024-01-18T08:25:10.649+10:00 Marape's Connect PNG is a conduit for money laundering<p><span face="Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"" style="color: #374151; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLcsz9j9r5WEpDvaVuqZ2qDyYHAUM3sX5D4ybWXpgasCWgJQ9KkyRzWrkgOZMs5A69c79jmSGAM26nPHz-ZmCmfVAcLfY8BDyhjCQ3sMLnGIRRFGZM2Tn_VuQv45QAa2Xk3pYa6Oj-S8OT3QPUt8PgJqx0uIcNSbqQwSw_452GGPQ1XTd64x0tPnOJVZo/s650/pm.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="457" data-original-width="650" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLcsz9j9r5WEpDvaVuqZ2qDyYHAUM3sX5D4ybWXpgasCWgJQ9KkyRzWrkgOZMs5A69c79jmSGAM26nPHz-ZmCmfVAcLfY8BDyhjCQ3sMLnGIRRFGZM2Tn_VuQv45QAa2Xk3pYa6Oj-S8OT3QPUt8PgJqx0uIcNSbqQwSw_452GGPQ1XTd64x0tPnOJVZo/w640-h450/pm.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />A whistle-blower has exposed Connect PNG as a conduit for money laundering within the government. In response to leaked Department of Finance records revealing payments of K350 million to select Connect PNG contractors on the day of the Port Moresby riots, former Prime Minister and Member for Ialibu Pangia, Honourable Peter O’Neill, expressed deep concern and outrage over the substantial sums of money being channeled through Connect PNG to benefit government associates.<p></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">While expressing his admiration for the initiative's goal of building high-quality infrastructure, Peter O’Neill also conveyed his strong support for Prime Minister James Marape's efforts to develop the nation and connect its people. However, he found it profoundly disturbing to witness the systematic and extensive flow of taxpayer funds and donor contributions through Connect PNG, branding it as the largest and most prolific money laundering scheme in the country's history.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">In a somewhat ironic observation, Peter O’Neill remarked that Connect PNG might have been aptly named because it seemingly connects taxpayers' money to political allies, potentially serving to sustain the current regime's grip on power.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Highlighting specific instances from the Department of Finance documents leaked by the courageous whistle-blower, Peter O’Neill pointed out a K13 million payment made to Ipwenz Construction on the day of the Port Moresby Riots under the guise of Connect PNG. This raised eyebrows, as the owner of Ipwenz Construction had previously been implicated in an incident during the National General Elections, where he was caught transporting cash to Tari with James Marape's son, yet no charges were filed, and the money was returned.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgea1lpx6SjBCucEHtflhdElAKoAs5xfKY7Cl-BBcGgtjVSPN1t3g81TgRh_IUKOsPijI-6wIox-rNC3PGCHjaBpFrmwruDpguBrjW4SR2j6-_6imO8Uw9p-hR6MHzm8xCXrK7WySNmquEM08tvi7IF12kD_s4_t26e8kJTMHRdp22qIEiuoZJRrhGB9X0/s960/WhatsApp%20Image%202021-02-04%20at%2010.17.31%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="630" data-original-width="960" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgea1lpx6SjBCucEHtflhdElAKoAs5xfKY7Cl-BBcGgtjVSPN1t3g81TgRh_IUKOsPijI-6wIox-rNC3PGCHjaBpFrmwruDpguBrjW4SR2j6-_6imO8Uw9p-hR6MHzm8xCXrK7WySNmquEM08tvi7IF12kD_s4_t26e8kJTMHRdp22qIEiuoZJRrhGB9X0/w640-h420/WhatsApp%20Image%202021-02-04%20at%2010.17.31%20PM.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Peter O’Neill questioned the prioritization of this payment over crucial obligations like settling the outstanding dues to iPi Catering, a company catering to Porgera Landowners, even for feeding the soldiers. He emphasized that the government must recognize that the funds flowing through Connect PNG are derived from hard-earned taxpayer money, borrowed funds, or contributions from donors, and not their personal piggy bank.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">He also accused the Marape Government and its Minister of Works of surreptitiously disbursing K350 million in urgent payments to political associates under Connect PNG on the very day the capital city was under attack, highlighting the breach of trust with the people. He stressed that Papua New Guineans are astute and resent being treated as gullible, adding that they are fully aware of the government's actions and not swayed by clever marketing.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">In conclusion, Peter O’Neill asserted that both the citizens of Papua New Guinea and the global community are closely monitoring the government's actions, and he decried the exploitation of the less fortunate in the name of Connect PNG.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-42388276886426519152024-01-15T07:15:00.002+10:002024-01-15T07:15:36.280+10:00CROOK COP IS NEW STATE OF EMERGENCY CONTROLLER<p><span style="color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><i></i></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi594TJDIjMHmSWOkf7kVKWy7JVfuQlwRLNHlb3UVJ8MW1qiaxooMtWD4MX-ZuMcQlLrkiangOSkApSbaNKfKqf27ZuQwqqcgWk81wcSlWQCflcL68UCX3nOfisDazdzJLsl9fOKu3ingUTcvf0vSr_s2qgLc3_WlR-dzcwHq5YE0pXCLXbMl7HyeYwvEg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img data-original-height="453" data-original-width="706" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi594TJDIjMHmSWOkf7kVKWy7JVfuQlwRLNHlb3UVJ8MW1qiaxooMtWD4MX-ZuMcQlLrkiangOSkApSbaNKfKqf27ZuQwqqcgWk81wcSlWQCflcL68UCX3nOfisDazdzJLsl9fOKu3ingUTcvf0vSr_s2qgLc3_WlR-dzcwHq5YE0pXCLXbMl7HyeYwvEg=w640-h410" width="640" /></a></i></div><i><br />by </i>MARK STENNA<p></p><p><span style="color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The recent appointment of Donald Yamasombi as the Controller of the National State of Emergency, as reported by the Post Courier, adds another dimension to the controversies surrounding him. Given the complex backdrop of allegations against him, his new role as the emergency controller raises several concerns.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Yamasombi's appointment as the emergency controller places him in a highly authoritative position, especially during a national crisis. His role involves making critical decisions and ensuring public order, which demands a high level of public trust and integrity. However, the backdrop of allegations regarding his connections to criminal networks and political ties casts doubt on his suitability for such a pivotal role.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Yamasombi's alleged ties with Chinese Triad gangs, drug smugglers, and political figures could potentially affect his impartiality and effectiveness as an emergency controller. The position requires unbiased enforcement of laws and regulations, especially during sensitive operations like controlling civil disobedience or misinformation campaigns on the internet. His ability to perform these duties without prejudice is crucial for maintaining public trust during a state of emergency.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The handling of the Jamie Pang case is a critical reflection of Yamasombi's leadership and the broader law enforcement system. The case highlights gaps in PNG’s legal framework regarding drug offenses and raises questions about law enforcement tactics, particularly in light of Yamasombi’s comments about the new Controlled Substances Act.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The controversies surrounding Yamasombi underscore the need for mechanisms ensuring integrity and accountability within law enforcement, including thorough investigations of misconduct, transparent reporting, and effective oversight.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">In his recent warning against using the internet to incite mobs or engage in civil disobedience, Yamasombi highlighted the importance of responsible use of digital platforms during emergencies. However, the effectiveness of such measures might be questioned if the public perceives a lack of integrity or impartiality in the person leading these efforts. The role demands not only enforcing laws but also ensuring that the rights to free speech and information are respected, balancing security concerns with civil liberties.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Given the severity of the allegations against him, there is a heightened need for transparent and accountable leadership from Yamasombi in his role as the emergency controller. His actions and decisions should be closely monitored and subjected to scrutiny to ensure they align with the principles of justice and fairness.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The complexities of Donald Yamasombi's role as the emergency controller in the context of his controversial background present a challenging scenario. It is essential for the relevant authorities and the public to remain vigilant and demand high standards of accountability and transparency in his actions. As Papua New Guinea navigates through its state of emergency, the leadership qualities of those at the helm, including Yamasombi, are of paramount importance.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-74690098749388943982024-01-11T06:59:00.001+10:002024-01-11T06:59:09.875+10:00As Port Moresby Burns, blame the bush kanaka Treasurer <p><span style="color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><i></i></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOPD3sBhBvrUC9cTkiuyFvmu_ei3s98BNIXhVmqR94VHuNUBKCYWvg3gN6FW8KHImv47trCGdB_gw5UfOVWg64koBRVA0IeQOlQzuppdOi0n9DcVI_u4OiVCx_P-qd8cTkdyutE8TsI4ncEGYivfQcBlboi9AWu1ceABO_h5e-mGPordijZrshTBvgrwc/s1533/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1033" data-original-width="1533" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOPD3sBhBvrUC9cTkiuyFvmu_ei3s98BNIXhVmqR94VHuNUBKCYWvg3gN6FW8KHImv47trCGdB_gw5UfOVWg64koBRVA0IeQOlQzuppdOi0n9DcVI_u4OiVCx_P-qd8cTkdyutE8TsI4ncEGYivfQcBlboi9AWu1ceABO_h5e-mGPordijZrshTBvgrwc/w640-h432/download.jpg" width="640" /></a></i></div><i><br />by </i>MICHAEL J. PASSINGAN<p></p><p><span style="color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">As Port Moresby reels from the recent riots and the crippling aftermath that has left major supermarkets in ashes, it's crucial to delve deeper into the underlying causes of this economic turmoil. Central to this discourse is the role of PNG's Minister for Treasury, Mr. Ian Ling-Stuckey, whose recent budgetary decisions and overall economic management are now under intense scrutiny. This article aims to explore how Ling-Stuckey's policies have contributed to the current crisis and what this means for the residents of Port Moresby.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight: 600;">The Crux of the Crisis:</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The week that should have marked a triumph for any Treasurer, showcasing a year’s efforts and outlining future prospects, turned into a debacle for Ling-Stuckey. His performance not only raised questions about his competence but also cast a shadow on the Marape Government’s economic credentials. The failure to table critical budget documents, the introduction of new, substantial taxes without adequate public consultation, and the resultant increase in the financial burden on families have contributed significantly to the unrest and instability we witness today.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight: 600;">Taxation without Explanation:</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">A pivotal issue has been the introduction of new taxes, particularly on corporations with significant market power, like BSP and Digicel. This move, perceived as a cash grab, is likely to have a domino effect, increasing costs for consumers and impacting sectors like superannuation, leading to reduced payouts for retirees. The lack of transparency and public consultation in implementing these taxes has been a critical point of contention, fueling public dissent and distrust.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight: 600;">Budget Mismanagement:</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The recent budget, marked by a significant deficit and increased public debt, reflects a continuation of the financial policies that have strained PNG's economy. Ling-Stuckey's approach, characterized by uncontrolled expenditure and optimistic revenue assumptions based on shaky foundations, has contributed to a growing financial burden on the nation. The increase in public service wages and the opaque nature of certain budget allocations, particularly in an election year, further exacerbate the economic challenges.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--tw-prose-bold); font-weight: 600;">Impact on Port Moresby:</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">For residents of Port Moresby, these macroeconomic issues translate into real and immediate hardships. The increase in taxes and the overall economic mismanagement contribute to higher costs of living, reduced job security, and a strained public service system. The recent payroll issue that sparked the riots is a direct outcome of these broader economic policies and their mismanagement.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The article by <a href="https://www.pngblogs.com/2021/11/inept-treasurer-incompetent-budget-why.html" target="_blank">Mitch Renagi </a>suggests that Ling-Stuckey and his team of advisors, including foreign consultants, have failed to effectively manage the nation's finances. Their approach has been criticized for being non-participatory and lacking in transparency, undermining democratic processes and public trust. The call for Ling-Stuckey’s resignation or dismissal by Prime Minister Marape reflects the extent of dissatisfaction with his performance.</p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: #374151; font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">As Port Moresby struggles to recover from the recent unrest, understanding the role of economic policies and their impact on everyday life becomes crucial. The actions and decisions of Treasury Minister Ian Ling-Stuckey have had far-reaching consequences, contributing to the current crisis. It is a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of national policies and local realities. For the residents of Port Moresby, the way forward requires not just resilience and adaptability but also a keen awareness of the economic forces shaping their city.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-90227149250283943802023-12-18T11:55:00.000+10:002023-12-18T11:55:05.045+10:00Assessing the IQ Level of one of PNG's Dumbest Ministers<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjNztQEMzautaYSVp6csX4aNv-NS7fRZtewq9P0PIUqeDu5eVnDmNSCDFOjQz68mSaubsm6PymBbbayz6GuiCL20mSYHs4pCxo-LST0L4P25D_Yid1kqseD7ThMOyoi1_IVrmPYjkOcI1Nvl0ODtq99fVNwHZQ37kAT_k8-HnvgvukP9VW-gTcDZnp9X60" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="561" data-original-width="686" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjNztQEMzautaYSVp6csX4aNv-NS7fRZtewq9P0PIUqeDu5eVnDmNSCDFOjQz68mSaubsm6PymBbbayz6GuiCL20mSYHs4pCxo-LST0L4P25D_Yid1kqseD7ThMOyoi1_IVrmPYjkOcI1Nvl0ODtq99fVNwHZQ37kAT_k8-HnvgvukP9VW-gTcDZnp9X60" width="587" /></a></div><br /><i>by </i>MICHAEL J PASSINGAN<br /><br />In the realm of Papua New Guinea's aviation industry, a significant development has transpired with the appointment of Dominic Kaumu as the new Acting Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (MD/CEO) of the National Airports Corporation (NAC). This appointment, effective from December 13, 2023, has sparked considerable debate and scrutiny, particularly concerning the decision-making process employed by the Minister for Transport and Civil Aviation, Schnaubelt. The situation becomes even more contentious when considering the backdrop of the recent resignation of the former acting MD/CEO Joseph Kintau, alongside the legal ruling that invalidated the gazette notice that had both appointed Kintau and terminated his predecessor Kiponge.<p></p><p>Dominic Kaumu's appointment as NAC's acting MD/CEO is not just a routine administrative change but raises profound questions about the criteria and merit used by Minister Schnaubelt in his selection process. According to a Post Courier article, Kaumu asserted, “I was one of the officers who has been serving in NAC for long years and I’m not new to deliver.” However, this statement appears to be a gross misrepresentation. Records and reports indicate that Kaumu has never been previously employed at NAC, nor at the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) or the Department of Civil Aviation (DCA) before this recent appointment. This revelation casts a shadow over Kaumu's claim of being an experienced insider within the organization and raises doubts about his familiarity with the intricacies of airport operations.</p><p>The fact that an acting MD/CEO has made such a misleading public statement is alarming and speaks volumes about his character and suitability for this critical role. It seems indicative of a pattern under Minister Schnaubelt’s tenure, where appointments appear to be more about cronyism than competence. Such decisions are crucial, especially for an organization as highly regulated and vital to national infrastructure as NAC.</p><p>Furthermore, Kaumu's recent candidacy in the 2022 general elections under the National Alliance party—led by Schnaubelt—adds another layer of concern. Legally, Kaumu is barred from holding public office until a five-year period has elapsed since his political candidacy. This circumstance further muddies the waters around his appointment and suggests potential conflicts of interest, possibly hinting at political favoritism rather than a merit-based selection.</p><p>Under Schnaubelt's leadership, the aviation industry has witnessed a concerning trend: the rapid turnover of acting MDs at NAC, with Kaumu being the fourth in a short span. This revolving door of leadership, marked by the tenures of Kiponge, Tupiri, Kintau, and now Kaumu, has coincided with a lack of progress in addressing critical compliance issues at airports across the nation. This instability at the top echelons of NAC's management could be a contributing factor to the ongoing challenges faced by the organization.</p><p>The state of airport infrastructure and services under Schnaubelt’s watch has been deteriorating, not improving. The closure of two national airports, Nadzab and Kiungu, due to non-compliance issues, which remain unresolved to date, is a testament to the worsening situation in the industry. The frequent changes in leadership, seemingly motivated by personal interests rather than the public good, have not only hindered progress but have also potentially allowed for exploitative practices that serve individual gains rather than national interests.</p><p>The Prime Minister, James Marape, now faces a crucial decision regarding Minister Schnaubelt’s future. The mounting evidence of incompetence, the potential for conflict of interest, and the lack of effective leadership in the aviation sector make a compelling case for Schnaubelt’s dismissal. Keeping him in office might only exacerbate the challenges facing the aviation industry, further destabilizing an already fragile sector. The time has come for decisive action to restore confidence, integrity, and competence in the management of Papua New Guinea's aviation industry.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-49150389258222193252023-12-14T06:28:00.002+10:002023-12-14T06:28:22.506+10:00James Marape's Missteps Openly Exposed at Australian Forum<p></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-style: italic; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY4e7xew6J5_aL8CSyRa6ns3Y2qK6q3Rl6Z07XoTK0CF6lLZ_U09n2hWJGrLn0PmsI7K9URa5Zu1UmD4ewY6FvVzocvC8KxoXYASkcTziWWrFGdgE0eVWi3HBed8M0FxfWhvmJ50LTNi-JeZH8Bf8ZHThX7PvxhFul6bTtP8vBgOoh7w2OBfr25Xyy5ak/s570/JM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="496" data-original-width="570" height="556" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY4e7xew6J5_aL8CSyRa6ns3Y2qK6q3Rl6Z07XoTK0CF6lLZ_U09n2hWJGrLn0PmsI7K9URa5Zu1UmD4ewY6FvVzocvC8KxoXYASkcTziWWrFGdgE0eVWi3HBed8M0FxfWhvmJ50LTNi-JeZH8Bf8ZHThX7PvxhFul6bTtP8vBgOoh7w2OBfr25Xyy5ak/w640-h556/JM.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i style="font-style: italic; text-align: justify;">by </i><span style="text-align: justify;"><b>MICHAEL J. PASSINGAN </b></span></div></div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">In a recent event that highlighted the complexities of international diplomacy and governance, Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister, James Marape, faced a challenging situation during his appearance at the Lowy Institute in Sydney, Australia. The Lowy Institute, known for its role as an independent think tank focusing on international policy, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, provided a platform for a candid assessment of Marape's governance.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Following his formal address, Marape engaged in a dialogue with Dr. Michael Fullilove AM, the Executive Director of the Institute. Dr. Fullilove, a respected figure in public and international policy, scrutinized Marape's past promises and statements, contrasting them with the current state of affairs in Papua New Guinea (PNG).</p><p style="text-align: justify;">The discussion took a critical turn as Dr. Fullilove revisited Marape's 2019 speech at the same venue, where Marape had outlined his vision for PNG in a speech titled “A New Book for Papua New Guinea.” The contrast between the promises made then and the current reality in PNG, especially regarding economic and security issues, was stark. This juxtaposition was not lost on the audience, as the Lowy Institute had published multiple reports on these subjects.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">A key moment occurred when Dr. Fullilove questioned Marape about internal security in PNG and the assistance needed under a recent security pact with Australia. Marape's response, marked by visible discomfort and evasive maneuvers, suggested a failure to address significant law and order issues that he had pledged to tackle four years earlier.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">The Prime Minister's apparent lack of composure and his struggle to articulate responses were noted by attendees. Observers commented on his frequent use of the word 'space', perceived forced smiles, and body language that betrayed his discomfort. This moment was seen as emblematic of broader issues within PNG's leadership and governance, raising questions about Marape's ability to fulfill his commitments and effectively lead the nation.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Marape's appearance at the Lowy Institute thus turned into a sobering reflection on his leadership. His difficulty in addressing critical questions and defending his record suggested a gap between his rhetoric and the realities of governance in PNG. The event underscored the challenges leaders face when their public promises are held up against their actual performance, particularly in the international arena.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">This incident also highlights the essential role of think tanks and independent institutions in facilitating critical dialogues and holding public figures accountable. The event at the Lowy Institute serves as a reminder of the famous quote attributed to Abraham Lincoln: "You can fool some of the people all of the time, and all of the people some of the time, but you can not fool all of the people all of the time."</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Marape's experience at the Lowy Institute is a case study in the complexities of political leadership and the importance of integrity and accountability in public office. It also reflects the intricate dynamics of international relations and the influence of policy institutes in shaping public discourse.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-33916955587752247952023-12-13T13:35:00.004+10:002023-12-13T13:48:08.726+10:00FAKE BACK PNG...FORGED DEGREE HOLDER RUNNING CEPA<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ScSRgOtP8NY_5YOnnqZ3VDc1w9gPtZhZqBBqmhiYtFUflOdD5C9HNQNiRjjUp6ovv5WlmgUl_-y6MNZwHm0hBvvvj15ZGcQH9FKF3ZUfgJhm_0RNiy7XZUm7TX9IKRuTJHezgJOXGnF11iFWS1zCsOiIZJTYNLxNgxMnEHx1N3ZjIhdcWwGFP3oK_tw/s986/Mr.%20Jude%20Tukulya.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="950" data-original-width="986" height="616" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ScSRgOtP8NY_5YOnnqZ3VDc1w9gPtZhZqBBqmhiYtFUflOdD5C9HNQNiRjjUp6ovv5WlmgUl_-y6MNZwHm0hBvvvj15ZGcQH9FKF3ZUfgJhm_0RNiy7XZUm7TX9IKRuTJHezgJOXGnF11iFWS1zCsOiIZJTYNLxNgxMnEHx1N3ZjIhdcWwGFP3oK_tw/w640-h616/Mr.%20Jude%20Tukulya.jpg" width="640" /></a></p><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">As an officer within the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA), I am writing to express my profound concern and opposition to the appointment of Mr. Jude Tukulya as the permanent Managing Director (MD). This stance is not taken lightly but is rooted in substantial evidence that points to Mr. Tukulya's lack of essential qualifications, experience, and skills needed for this critical role. I <a style="color: #385898; cursor: pointer;" tabindex="-1"></a>wish to elaborate on several key issues that underscore my apprehensions:</span></div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Questionable Academic Credentials: </span></b></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The appointment of Mr. Tukulya as Director, Corporate Services at CEPA is marred by serious allegations of fraudulent qualifications. These concerns were initially raised in a 2022 post on <a class="x1i10hfl xjbqb8w x6umtig x1b1mbwd xaqea5y xav7gou x9f619 x1ypdohk xt0psk2 xe8uvvx xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r xexx8yu x4uap5 x18d9i69 xkhd6sd x16tdsg8 x1hl2dhg xggy1nq x1a2a7pz xt0b8zv x1fey0fg" href="http://pngblogs.com/?fbclid=IwAR2pADX8f4mIYQOJ4z63sy19qYiEqhIUjZDKGXtbEbJQP6hDDfSjo42dZFM" rel="nofollow noreferrer" role="link" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; background-color: transparent; border-color: initial; border-style: initial; border-width: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; cursor: pointer; display: inline; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: inherit; text-decoration-line: none; touch-action: manipulation;" tabindex="0" target="_blank">pngblogs.com</a>, casting doubt on his degree from the University of PNG. Subsequent investigations into these allegations, which were both serious and criminal in nature, revealed alarming facts. It was confirmed that Mr. Tukulya indeed presented forged academic documents to secure his position at CEPA, a revelation that was corroborated by evidence available through the mentioned links and the University of PNG itself.</span></div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Political Influence and Inadequate Experience: </span></b></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Mr. Tukulya's career trajectory within CEPA appears to be significantly influenced by political connections rather than merit. His association with Sir John Thomas Pundari, MP, seems to have played a pivotal role in his initial placement within CEPA, bypassing standard protocols. This political maneuvering began with Mr. Tukulya's compromise in the 2012 election for the Kompiam/Ambum Open Seat, leading to his eventual role as ministerial staff and later as Director, Corporate Services. His previous employment, including his role as an auditor at the National Capital District Commission, was also underpinned by the use of falsified credentials, leading to his termination for financial misconduct.</span></div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Failure in Environmental Governance:</span></b></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;"> As acting MD, Mr. Tukulya's performance raises serious questions about his commitment to environmental stewardship and regulatory compliance. Particularly concerning is his handling of the Environmental Permit for Porgera Gold Mining. The Mining Act 1992 mandates stringent environmental impact assessments, which Mr. Tukulya neglected. His failure to conduct thorough physical, biological, and social environmental assessments, along with the lack of oversight on waste minimization, cleaner production, and energy balance, reflects a disregard for the environmental and social responsibilities of CEPA.</span></div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Lack of Leadership and Professional Competence: </span></b></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">During his interim tenure as MD, Mr. Tukulya exhibited significant deficiencies in leadership and professional abilities. His poor people management skills, inadequate presentation capabilities, and inability to effectively coordinate departmental activities have led to internal discord and financial mismanagement. Furthermore, his limited understanding of scientific and environmental issues, vital for CEPA's mission, is glaringly evident.</span></div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">Broader Implications of Incompetence:</span></b></div><div dir="auto" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The implications of Mr. Tukulya's leadership extend beyond CEPA. His appointment, based on a falsified qualification, reflects a broader issue of integrity within the education system, particularly at the University of PNG. Recent incidents, such as the suspension of university officers over grade manipulation, highlight a systemic problem that Mr. Tukulya has exploited. This not only damages CEPA's reputation but also undermines public confidence in the nation's premier educational institutions.</span></div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">The issues surrounding Mr. Jude Tukulya's competency and ethical standing are deeply troubling, especially considering the pivotal role of CEPA in managing Papua New Guinea's natural and physical resources. His appointment, stemming from a fake qualification and compounded by a lack of relevant experience and skills, poses a significant threat to the integrity and effectiveness of this vital institution. It is imperative that CEPA be led by a qualified, experienced scientist who understands the complexities of natural resource management, environmental protection, and climate change challenges. We have qualified Papua New Guineans with the requisite expertise who are far more suited for the role of Managing Director than someone whose position is predicated on deception and inexperience.</span></div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><div dir="auto" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: medium;">From a Concerned CEPA Staff Member.</span></div></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><span face="Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"" style="color: #374151; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">
</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-10604457263134833392023-11-28T13:03:00.000+10:002023-11-28T13:03:34.003+10:00 Marape’s jumble of meaningless pronouncements <p><i></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGDTboG7PXCPspnPnJs0TGCIhWKHdGxbBADFuivg7s0ktU248T22CnfxGBhcyfUDpf0qsMlHlxpakEu82EBzAwyiJMGPNOqwieNY6r1LGmrnv3Q8vqcz3X_cU4iX95Qll5XptcimIg65eIUM_MdoA-rYygGq91TgAmwusFo3tTzww8I2QA-lbeEIvI73w/s2048/832daf5e-74a2-4298-96d5-fbaf440fc358.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1363" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGDTboG7PXCPspnPnJs0TGCIhWKHdGxbBADFuivg7s0ktU248T22CnfxGBhcyfUDpf0qsMlHlxpakEu82EBzAwyiJMGPNOqwieNY6r1LGmrnv3Q8vqcz3X_cU4iX95Qll5XptcimIg65eIUM_MdoA-rYygGq91TgAmwusFo3tTzww8I2QA-lbeEIvI73w/w640-h426/832daf5e-74a2-4298-96d5-fbaf440fc358.webp" width="640" /></a></i></div><i><br />by </i>DAVID LEPI<p></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In a recent United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York Prime Minister Hon. James Marape said Papua New Guinea can become a food supplier to the world with its abundance of land and sea.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nothing would have been wrong with this statement had only Marape invested in the technology and resources that had remarkably turned the scorched deserts of Isreal's countryside into the world's food bowl or Isreal a global leader in agriculture and water.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Marape’s verbal buckshot with no meaning is no different to Idi Amin's idiotic proclamation of himself as Lord of All the Beasts of the Earth and Fishes of the Sea, and Conqueror of the British Empire in Africa in General.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Verbal diarrhoea, which satirist call it loose-stooled effluent.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Marape thinks he is saying or doing the right things and is smiling eagerly in the cameras but his jester of saying things off the cuff, impromptu and without thinking through is becoming legendary and is producing gales of laughter around the world.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Since his announcement at the 77th UNGA in New York on September 23, 2022 Marape made no effort in investing in agriculture or inviting new international development partners to work with PNG in the agriculture sector, particularly in downstream processing.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Agriculture is still hanging in that vacuum like all his other false promises - Pogera, Papuan LNG, turning PNG into an all powerful black, rich Wakanda in 10 years etc..Talking is easy for Marape but rolling up the sleeves and walking the talk has never been in his DNA.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">To date the National Agriculture Sector Plan 2024 - 2033 developed by some of the country's best does not have a diver to lead and take it to the desired destination they charted. It lacks both the political will and technical expertise to move forward.</span></p><span style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: inherit;"><p dir="ltr"></p><p dir="ltr"><br /></p></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-3473517367774823072023-11-28T07:52:00.000+10:002023-11-28T07:52:02.733+10:00 Persistent Electoral Issues in Papua New Guinea<p><span style="color: var(--text-primary); font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i></i></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhhnSRFwzsO9KJh-m8kdWWkNxpwyjIZgK0SsguTimz7mqmKH0gG2L91hverZIzPZg2BazCC_BTHjMgvfwx3gmHHVYML16Jpulu_-333Ig7dUOi_6OfJekUD4NhM9f1bWIqGBpUcgmVvu9oLMpNuce0quJ2P34eXh-uCI62fsZAp6CqKweY_yXxeW31cK3Q" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img data-original-height="397" data-original-width="690" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhhnSRFwzsO9KJh-m8kdWWkNxpwyjIZgK0SsguTimz7mqmKH0gG2L91hverZIzPZg2BazCC_BTHjMgvfwx3gmHHVYML16Jpulu_-333Ig7dUOi_6OfJekUD4NhM9f1bWIqGBpUcgmVvu9oLMpNuce0quJ2P34eXh-uCI62fsZAp6CqKweY_yXxeW31cK3Q=w640-h368" width="640" /></a></i></span></div></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br />by</i> Nelson Wandi</span><p></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The persistent issues in Papua New Guinea's elections are well-known to its citizens. Every election cycle, the same problems recur, deeply rooted in the country's culture and practices. Political observers, local elites, and anti-corruption activists continue to investigate and expose corrupt practices, but the situation remains dire.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">International organizations, such as the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) and Transparency International Papua New Guinea (TIPNG), have been actively gathering reports on corruption during elections. TIPNG's reports indicate rampant corruption, with PNG failing to meet the satisfactory levels set by UNCAC.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Corruption in PNG is not just a top-level government issue but starts at the grassroots and permeates up through the structure. High-ranking government officials often engage in corrupt practices like the wantok system, bribery, vote buying, and manipulating the election process. This influences those at lower levels to also engage in corruption.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A recent example of this problem is the chaos in the Lagaip electoral ward by-election, where both national and provincial government officials, including the electoral commissioner, were involved. The controversy centered around the relocation of the counting venue, allegedly to favor a leading candidate, sparking conflict among party members and local residents.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">These incidents highlight the larger issue of corruption in PNG, where the government is seen as regressing the nation, risking its future. Elections are manipulated by the government, and this abuse of power is a clear sign of a failing democracy.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Corruption also affects the voters. While they recognize corrupt practices like bribery and vote buying, many still support corrupt politicians, especially when offered jobs in return for votes. This clientelism is more pronounced among those in economic hardship, perpetuating corruption.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">PNG has many laws against corruption and numerous agencies dedicated to combating it, including a new Independent Commission against Corruption. However, despite these efforts, public perception is that corruption is an unchangeable norm, and more needs to be done to change this mindset.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Many public sector agencies, including the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary and the Office of the Public Prosecutor, are involved in anti-corruption efforts. However, these agencies often lack resources and are themselves plagued by corruption, making it difficult to effectively address the issue.</span></p><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-size: 16px; margin: 1.25em 0px 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In conclusion, PNG's struggle with corruption is deep-rooted and complex, involving cultural practices and systemic issues at all levels of government. More effective measures, along with a change in public perception, are crucial to address this enduring problem.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-90030938705758274862023-11-17T13:45:00.004+10:002023-11-17T13:52:46.561+10:00IPATAS IS A SEWER RAT, WATCH OUT JAMES MARAPE..<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6sWck7UGkLpN2N28KUswb8XZdh-z9x8KQvzSppEmrdPAfkUlR0qadFm91mfVhFtXij5HWBY2eUEXGd_KBFbgaD1SGDpqLxEvNtpsgIaosqf1a_W0sTY6xB0vnm0nQq4e5Xt9fDr89HrlubtWBDgbYNLCf9JncfRvVakMyQHzcWIuXVGCnlR2wD7Cs4yI/s1206/TANS.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="549" data-original-width="1206" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6sWck7UGkLpN2N28KUswb8XZdh-z9x8KQvzSppEmrdPAfkUlR0qadFm91mfVhFtXij5HWBY2eUEXGd_KBFbgaD1SGDpqLxEvNtpsgIaosqf1a_W0sTY6xB0vnm0nQq4e5Xt9fDr89HrlubtWBDgbYNLCf9JncfRvVakMyQHzcWIuXVGCnlR2wD7Cs4yI/w640-h292/TANS.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />In the realm of national politics, there was a time when John Pundari was a prominent figure. During this period, Peter Ipatas emerged as a significant player, leveraging his influence in Enga's political scene. He orchestrated a strategic move against Pundari, particularly notable in 2002. Pundari, serving as the Speaker, found himself at a political crossroads when Ipatas perceived a potential defeat at Pundari's hands.<p></p><p> In a controversial maneuver, Ipatas allegedly influenced certain actions involving Jeffery Balakau's supporters, leading to the destruction of crucial vote-containing containers at the Wabag Police Station. With these efforts, Pundari lost a substantial number of votes from regions like Surinki, Laiagam, Kandep, and Pogera, losing to the cheater Ipatas.</p><p>Ipatas's political tactics didn't end there; he later collaborated with Peter O'Neill and the PNC to undermine Don Polye's leadership. This partnership was seen as a strategic move to consolidate power, further illustrating Ipatas's determination to maintain control.</p><p>Critics describe Peter Ipatas as a leader reluctant to foster young leadership within Enga, often using tactics that reflect a dictatorial approach. His current political alignments, including partnerships with URP and Tomait Kapili, are seen as indicators of potential shifts in leadership, particularly concerning James Marape's tenure as Prime Minister.</p><p>While Ipatas enjoys a certain level of respect and admiration in East Enga, the sentiment is not universally shared. In West Enga, there's a notable ambivalence towards his leadership, indicating a divide in public opinion within the region.</p><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-74747721236917388392023-11-15T10:37:00.001+10:002023-11-15T10:37:25.612+10:00Why the need to take overseas trips whether it is state funded or free?<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuEA5d_OyaJfpuJJnU4-VCSJ6dkDoz85aRtN9eEGI4bXwNmf82e2XDD0BiezM9S7eEnD6P2OMfYNvekBPbPrmp0YrhLmXuh9JMdDshs4brOdIicNTfT0wpsGuyAXd6D3kMREk7QYZ7_GYQsi7XoG-GaM3gQAr0fsurojBbYeoPYMhJ0QOTYSC0_Hx83pU/s810/JMRM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="566" data-original-width="810" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuEA5d_OyaJfpuJJnU4-VCSJ6dkDoz85aRtN9eEGI4bXwNmf82e2XDD0BiezM9S7eEnD6P2OMfYNvekBPbPrmp0YrhLmXuh9JMdDshs4brOdIicNTfT0wpsGuyAXd6D3kMREk7QYZ7_GYQsi7XoG-GaM3gQAr0fsurojBbYeoPYMhJ0QOTYSC0_Hx83pU/w640-h448/JMRM.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><i>by </i>DAVID LEPI<p></p><p></p><p>In the realm of political discourse, especially on social media platforms, the travel habits of Prime Minister James Marape have sparked a fiery debate. His latest expedition, a journey to San Francisco for the APEC Economic Leaders meeting from November 11-17, 2023, is no exception. This trip, like others, involves an extended entourage, raising questions about the necessity and implications of such frequent overseas engagements.</p><p>The role of Papua New Guinea (PNG) in forums like APEC cannot be understated, especially considering the country's dire need for foreign direct investment amidst looming budget constraints and the impending vote of no confidence. Full representation in these international forums seems imperative. However, this brings us to the question of the Prime Minister's travel prerogatives. Indeed, as the leader of the nation, travel is part and parcel of the job, with a designated budget for such engagements.</p><p>Yet, the issue transcends mere budgetary allocations. The crux of the matter lies in the discernment of these travels - are they a matter of necessity or convenience? The Prime Minister's travel entourage often raises eyebrows, with the inclusion of figures like the controversial foreign minister, his family members, and other associates, all of whom incur expenses covered by the state. These costs, encompassing food, lodging, car rentals, and other incidentals, are borne by the taxpayers.</p><p>Comparatively, former Prime Ministers like Sir Mekere Morauta and Peter O'Neill exhibited fiscal restraint in their travel decisions, prioritizing national financial stability. Similarly, GC Sir Michael Somare, Sir Rabbie Namaliu, Sir Julius Chan, and Pias Wingti were known for their judicious travel choices, often accompanied by minimal delegations.</p><p>In stark contrast, Prime Minister Marape’s tenure has been marked by frequent and seemingly unceasing international travel, earning him the moniker of a globetrotting head of state. This raises questions about the nature of these trips. Are they driven by genuine diplomatic or economic necessity, or do they serve as convenient distractions from domestic issues? The perception that these travels might be leveraged for personal political gain or to placate political adversaries cannot be ignored.</p><p>As the nation observes the Prime Minister’s travel patterns, the discourse naturally gravitates towards the principles of leadership and moral obligation. A leader of high moral standing would arguably weigh the pros and cons of each trip, considering both the monetary cost and the opportunity cost, prioritizing the national interest above all.</p><p>While the Prime Minister's right to travel is indisputable, the necessity, frequency, and intent behind these travels warrant a closer examination. The balance between representing PNG on the global stage and addressing domestic concerns remains a delicate one, demanding not just fiscal prudence but also moral and ethical discernment. As PNG navigates these complex dynamics, the role of its leader in the international arena continues to be a subject of intense scrutiny and debate.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-73127535622413851582023-11-14T07:10:00.001+10:002023-11-14T07:10:33.153+10:00 Re-evaluating the US-PNG Defence Cooperation Agreement<p><i></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja583pHI_6sd8pdAWXDR6QehzpRvcn2OAKsGk7hmw_MybV4ow3j0G8ScQZV67zCz6XGbJEKKOJcxfTub7mJ9l4YxBAPHk2ax-l6loWF1n6bjYqHDWigEVKK65fQfIEfXJnv0mpBvE_XVAhkCwzOcJCGaIx44o2sk2VzNAuQhwfBygWIoBF1LttZ16Cby4/s1024/jm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="710" data-original-width="1024" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja583pHI_6sd8pdAWXDR6QehzpRvcn2OAKsGk7hmw_MybV4ow3j0G8ScQZV67zCz6XGbJEKKOJcxfTub7mJ9l4YxBAPHk2ax-l6loWF1n6bjYqHDWigEVKK65fQfIEfXJnv0mpBvE_XVAhkCwzOcJCGaIx44o2sk2VzNAuQhwfBygWIoBF1LttZ16Cby4/w640-h444/jm.jpg" width="640" /></a></i></div><i><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>by </i>KAPEMA KORU</div></i><p></p><p>The US-PNG Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA) is a pivotal arrangement that demands an understanding of the broader geopolitical landscape. Papua New Guinea (PNG), strategically located in a region of growing significance, must navigate through a complex matrix of national security, regional stability, and international relations. The DCA with the United States is a critical piece in this intricate puzzle, reflecting the need to balance diverse and sometimes conflicting interests.</p><p>Criticism of the DCA often arises from a perceived disregard for public opinion in PNG. However, while public sentiment is vital in a democratic setup, the underpinnings of defence pacts often involve multi-layered considerations. These include addressing security threats, regional alliances, and long-term national interests, which may not always be transparent or understandable to the general public, yet are instrumental in shaping such agreements.</p><p>Re-evaluating the DCA involves a careful analysis of its potential benefits and risks for PNG. The agreement could enhance PNG's defence capabilities, access to advanced military technology, and a stronger role in regional security. Conversely, concerns about increased militarization, entanglement in larger geopolitical conflicts, and the impact on PNG's autonomy cannot be overlooked.</p><p>Comparisons with regions like Okinawa, which have a significant US military presence, provide valuable insights. However, each defence agreement is unique, influenced by distinct political, cultural, and historical contexts. PNG must draw lessons from these global experiences while forging a path that aligns with its specific needs and aspirations.</p><p>A notable critique of the DCA is the perceived lack of transparency and public involvement. Enhancing dialogue among the government, defence officials, and the public is crucial. Transparent communication about the agreement's objectives, terms, and consequences could bridge the gap between governmental actions and public apprehensions.</p><p>The crux of re-evaluating the DCA lies in balancing PNG's sovereignty with the benefits of global partnerships. PNG must ensure that this agreement supports its national interests and fosters cooperative international relationships, without compromising its autonomy and long-term development goals.</p><p>Re-evaluating the US-PNG Defence Cooperation Agreement requires a thorough understanding of its strategic implications, a balanced assessment of its pros and cons, learning from global examples, promoting open dialogue, and focusing on PNG's sovereignty and development objectives. This comprehensive approach is essential for PNG to navigate the complexities of modern-day geopolitics effectively.</p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-21522730639584405392023-11-13T11:31:00.007+10:002023-11-13T11:31:56.054+10:006 Constitutional Sins of Electoral Commissioner Simon Sinai<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgfQJfgO-x4-_3wFxXT0hapwAzfKrExudDxchAiMH3es33qYI21gU7DO75A8oUebLPJrG_yPZPgLlcZSQVq0f7_UvYXz5nnwIIQycK-OlyLilTxbg-n8NV0rLLLJmsZF0Rlenbqi60dFzfNSdFXgsRgS4fpP6CVwFH3tfwXq7ykobyEykNL4hYCH31RV4/s4096/Simon%20Sinai.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2731" data-original-width="4096" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgfQJfgO-x4-_3wFxXT0hapwAzfKrExudDxchAiMH3es33qYI21gU7DO75A8oUebLPJrG_yPZPgLlcZSQVq0f7_UvYXz5nnwIIQycK-OlyLilTxbg-n8NV0rLLLJmsZF0Rlenbqi60dFzfNSdFXgsRgS4fpP6CVwFH3tfwXq7ykobyEykNL4hYCH31RV4/w640-h426/Simon%20Sinai.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="color: var(--text-primary); font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 2.25em; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>6 Constitutional Sins of Electoral Commissioner Simon Sinai: An Analysis of 2022 PNG Elections</b></span><p></p><h3 style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 1.25em; line-height: 1.6; margin: 1rem 0px 0.5rem; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="color: var(--text-primary); font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400;"><i>By A Concerned Papua New Guinean</i></span></h3><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 1.25em; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The 2022 Papua New Guinea elections were marred by violence and ill-preparation, casting a shadow over the constitutional integrity of the electoral process. The role of the Electoral Commissioner, Simon Sinai, has come under scrutiny, with allegations of significant constitutional breaches. This analysis aims to unravel the complexities and implications of these purported missteps.</p><h4 style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1rem 0px 0.5rem; white-space-collapse: preserve;">1. Late Appointment of Electoral Officials</h4><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 1.25em; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Sinai's decision to appoint Returning Officers (ROs) and Assistant Returning Officers (AROs) at the last minute proved detrimental. ROs, responsible for tasks such as validating and updating common rolls, were appointed too late, receiving training only on the eve of voting. This delay likely compromised their ability to manage the elections effectively.</p><h4 style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1rem 0px 0.5rem; white-space-collapse: preserve;">2. Mismanagement of Opening of Writs</h4><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 1.25em; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The extension of the Opening of Writs, following the unexpected death of late Basil, was controversial. A National Gazette issued by Sinai was deemed invalid as it should have been issued by the Governor-General (GG), not the EC. This procedural error potentially invalidated nominations post-May 19, thereby throwing the legitimacy of the entire electoral process into question.</p><h4 style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1rem 0px 0.5rem; white-space-collapse: preserve;">3. Failure to Appoint Election Advisory Committee</h4><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 1.25em; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The absence of the Election Advisory Committee, typically composed of independent experts, is alarming. Their role is critical in determining the validity of an election. The lack of this committee raises questions about the constitutional validity of the EC's decisions to fail elections in certain regions.</p><h4 style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1rem 0px 0.5rem; white-space-collapse: preserve;">4. Removal of Section 153A Powers</h4><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 1.25em; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Sinai's decision to withdraw powers granted under Section 153A of the Organic Law, which allowed Returning Officers to adjudicate disputed ballot boxes, led to confusion and potential legal challenges. This centralization of power to the EC, instead of the ROs, who are closer to the ground realities, likely complicated and delayed the counting process.</p><h4 style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1rem 0px 0.5rem; white-space-collapse: preserve;">5. Misinterpretation of the Authority to Extend Writ Return Dates</h4><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 1.25em; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The EC's assumption that he had the authority to extend the date for the return of writs beyond the constitutional deadline further demonstrates a misunderstanding of his legal powers. This action, which goes against the clear guidelines set out in the Constitution, threatens the constitutional legitimacy of the government formed post-elections.</p><h4 style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 1.5; margin: 1rem 0px 0.5rem; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Conclusion</h4><p style="--tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-ring-color: rgba(69,89,164,.5); --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 transparent; --tw-shadow: 0 0 transparent; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; border: 0px solid rgb(217, 217, 227); box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--text-primary); font-family: Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">The 2022 elections in Papua New Guinea, under the stewardship of Simon Sinai, have been marked by a series of constitutional violations. These actions have not only undermined the democratic process but also raised significant concerns about the future of electoral integrity in the country. The need for a thorough investigation and possibly a Commission of Inquiry is evident, alongside urgent reforms to prevent such failures in future elections. The cost, both socially and economically, of these alleged constitutional sins cannot be understated, with the potential to fuel further unrest and legal disputes in an already tense political climate.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-37411801324248717852023-11-10T11:36:00.000+10:002023-11-10T11:36:17.498+10:00 The Architects of Controversy: Somare and Kua<p><i></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUw0Il3rLd8RlOuRtxwbTwtSs0pOFE-PGJ3Xb4I8dzrP2kSIHNp8AV6In12x4kegGwXD2y_ygTA3w_y1RqUZp9iWfJKFDF8Pd7fSKLiMcALIqYe1IOVIJnvHwEMouJlQ9o9lBc3ef3LiZuTntzY3KHbA0hhwmNQBbEs3jhyphenhyphenEWPQS0FqepN2oUTgBwIflk/s1381/KUA%20SOMARE%20PNGBLOGS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="713" data-original-width="1381" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUw0Il3rLd8RlOuRtxwbTwtSs0pOFE-PGJ3Xb4I8dzrP2kSIHNp8AV6In12x4kegGwXD2y_ygTA3w_y1RqUZp9iWfJKFDF8Pd7fSKLiMcALIqYe1IOVIJnvHwEMouJlQ9o9lBc3ef3LiZuTntzY3KHbA0hhwmNQBbEs3jhyphenhyphenEWPQS0FqepN2oUTgBwIflk/w640-h330/KUA%20SOMARE%20PNGBLOGS.jpg" width="640" /></a></i></div><i><br />by </i>PAUL R. TAGALU<p></p><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">The PNG LNG Project, envisioned to be a cornerstone of Papua New Guinea's economic advancement, found its architects in Arthur Somare and Kerenga Kua. These men stood at the helm during the project's negotiation phase, a period that was to shape the future economic trajectory of the nation.</span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Arthur Somare, son of PNG's revered leader Sir Michael Somare, held the reins as the Minister for the Independent Public Business Corporation (IPBC). With a political legacy to his name but questioned qualifications for the monumental task at hand, Somare found himself in the position to make decisions that would have profound implications for the country's economy. Criticized for his lack of formal education in relevant fields and real-world business acumen, Somare’s decisions during this period are now dissected for their wisdom and long-term impact.</span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">At Somare's side was Kerenga Kua, a legal advisor whose expertise would be called upon to navigate the complex legalities of the LNG agreement. Kua, a figure with significant legal experience but a negligible background in the oil and gas industry, was thrust into a situation that arguably required a deep understanding of energy economics and global energy law. The article posits that Kua's legal counsel was a determining factor in the execution of agreements that would later be deemed unfavorable to PNG.</span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">The role of these men in the PNG LNG Project's development has not been without its critics. Some have pointed to a lack of due diligence and foresight, suggesting that the negotiations were conducted without a comprehensive understanding of the global energy sector and the intricate dynamics of multinational energy investments. The agreement negotiated by Somare, purportedly under the advisement of Kua, is said to have bound PNG to terms that would not stand the test of economic sustainability.</span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Somare and Kua swayed by political and personal interests, engaged in a manner that eschewed the rigorous standards typically employed in such high-stakes international negotiations. Their approach was naive in the face of ExxonMobil's seasoned negotiation team, which represented a company with vast experience in securing advantageous terms in its global operations.</span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">Somare's and Kua's involvement with the PNG LNG Project is now viewed through a lens of skepticism, as the nation grapples with the economic fallout. The project, once a beacon of hope for PNG's future prosperity, is portrayed as a cautionary tale of how strategic missteps and inadequate leadership can lead to an outcome far removed from the original grand vision.</span><br /><br /><span style="white-space-collapse: preserve;">As PNG continues to navigate the consequences of these decisions, the scrutiny of Somare's and Kua's roles in the project underscores a critical moment in the country's economic development narrative, one that will be studied and reflected upon for years to come.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-44201326417258533662023-11-10T09:37:00.002+10:002023-11-10T09:37:36.416+10:00MARAPE'S PROFOUND DISCONNECT WITH PROFESSED VALUES<i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEWBfRIQUS3NSXiRCQfZfB0pdOJjjikJTY7YDPB7MGJnneskgB-cBzjH5CXQXdzWwPpdUvqz9Ar6pbj8mhLLZDSXKPthNsmh82io2JDlXu-UBwgO0mUgDqFbeZURWNF2s0fNScv6X9Af71cRu9dZ7KK5gUPgXbWV4bDthkjaxtTIYw9rcTNqv7QxYGs84/s1072/JM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="766" data-original-width="1072" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEWBfRIQUS3NSXiRCQfZfB0pdOJjjikJTY7YDPB7MGJnneskgB-cBzjH5CXQXdzWwPpdUvqz9Ar6pbj8mhLLZDSXKPthNsmh82io2JDlXu-UBwgO0mUgDqFbeZURWNF2s0fNScv6X9Af71cRu9dZ7KK5gUPgXbWV4bDthkjaxtTIYw9rcTNqv7QxYGs84/w640-h458/JM.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />by</i> STEVEN TEKO<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">James Marape's political journey and behavior have been characterized by a profound disconnect between his professed values and his actions, casting him in a light similar to the proverbial wolf in sheep's clothing.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Marape's tenure as the Finance Minister under the PNC banner was notable for its duration but became infamous when he resigned, alleging corruption within the O'Neill government. His resignation was dramatic and public, and he positioned himself as a whistleblower against corruption. However, his failure to provide any concrete evidence or to file any formal complaints against the alleged corruption has led to skepticism about the sincerity of his claims.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In the throes of political turmoil at the Laguna camp, Marape made an unexpected bid for the prime ministership, despite having previously stated he had no such ambitions. This attempt was unsuccessful, failing to secure the support of the majority of MPs. In a subsequent effort to gather support, Marape's approach to William Duma was deceptive; he signed an agreement offering Duma the prime ministership, an agreement sanctified by a prayer in the presence of notable political figures. This act was later revealed to be a strategic maneuver when Marape reneged on the agreement as soon as it served its purpose of bringing Duma's supporters to his side.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The secret ballot held in the Laguna camp further revealed the intricacies of Marape's political strategies. Although he lost the vote to Patrick Pruaitch and seemingly conceded by endorsing Pruaitch for prime minister, his political machinations continued. That same evening, Marape's meeting with Peter O'Neill, marked by tears and pleas for forgiveness, was later interpreted not as an act of reconciliation but as a strategic play to secure the leadership role.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The pinnacle of Marape's perceived betrayal came when he secured the position of Prime Minister with the support of the PNC, the very party he later dismissed upon his first anniversary in office. This move was viewed as a stark betrayal, not only to the PNC but to all those who had supported him in the past, suggesting a pattern of opportunistic alliances and broken promises.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The narrative of James Marape's ascent to power is thus framed by a series of strategic allegiances and betrayals, manipulative tactics, and a pursuit of power that overrides previous commitments and loyalties. The portrayal of Marape in this narrative is one of a politician whose actions are driven by self-interest, ambition, and an apparent willingness to exploit both personal relationships and political dynamics to achieve his goals. This portrayal raises serious concerns about his credibility and the moral compass guiding his leadership. The call for divine help underscores the urgency and the depth of concern for the country's future under leadership that is seen as fundamentally untrustworthy and self-serving.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-74089045917882509842023-11-06T13:28:00.005+10:002023-11-06T13:28:39.131+10:00Marape's promises are like thunder without rain<i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMm9IQQWXzT7l46KQgLKclMiOTcWu326xJMCt58Yz8kGL0hX1l_N8ygIbXvIbsvjnKiNVC2jJz-xaNlixzr0pytTGrbHyAbyf5-DOWMr5sgr9Q0JqQjlhRcRkxFO9JJji9HWdIxIH5Z9iJ07c5Qwglo8ecdvxRJf4Fl1KRtBgd83Vn3MUzBc8Ruz_2QrI/s714/pfils.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="467" data-original-width="714" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMm9IQQWXzT7l46KQgLKclMiOTcWu326xJMCt58Yz8kGL0hX1l_N8ygIbXvIbsvjnKiNVC2jJz-xaNlixzr0pytTGrbHyAbyf5-DOWMr5sgr9Q0JqQjlhRcRkxFO9JJji9HWdIxIH5Z9iJ07c5Qwglo8ecdvxRJf4Fl1KRtBgd83Vn3MUzBc8Ruz_2QrI/w640-h418/pfils.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />by</i> David Lepi<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">In the world of literature, George Orwell’s "Animal Farm" stands out as a stark allegory of political dynamics. Readers with a penchant for political narratives will find themselves revisiting the tale, particularly for its colorful cast of characters, including Moses, the raven. This pet of Mr. Jones the farmer overthrown by his own animals was an intriguing storyteller. He spoke of a utopian place called "Sugarcandy Mountain," where, he claimed, the burdens of labor and suffering would eventually dissolve into a lifetime of bliss.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">As the narrative progresses, the times grow tougher for the animals working tirelessly on the farm. It is during these periods that Moses would abscond to distant lands, only to return when the questions about his tales waned. Upon return, he'd weave his stories anew, promising an idyllic future free from oppression and hunger.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In an odd parallel, despite the animals' recognition of Moses's fabrications, they still allowed him to stay on the farm, indulging in his idleness and even granting him a daily ration of beer. The worse their plight became, the more comforting his lies seemed a momentary solace from their grueling reality.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This brings us to a contemporary figure reminiscent of Moses: Prime Minister James Marape of Papua New Guinea. Marape, with the demeanor of a devout church elder and the voice of a choir leader, has been accused of peddling illusions, much like Moses, wrapped in the cloak of religious fervor. He stands accused of feeding the people with a diet of promises as insubstantial as whispers, presenting visions of a "Rich Black Christian Nation" a modern iteration of Sugarcandy Mountain.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Invoking the sentiment of Karl Marx, who famously described religion as the opium of the masses, the comparison between Moses's fables and Marape's narratives becomes starkly evident. Both sets of promises act as a narcotic to the weary spirits of the populace, in this case, the people of Papua New Guinea.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Marape's tenure has been peppered with grand declarations: A record-shattering budget, visions of trillion-dollar investments, and lavish promises of aid from nations including China, the USA, and even fictional Wakanda. There are proclamations of independence linked to the Pogera mine, assurances of short-term sacrifices yielding long-term benefits, imminent Covid-19 reports, sweeping arrests tied to the UBS Loan Commission of Inquiry, and substantial funding directed at law enforcement and transportation—all amidst the overarching program of Connect PNG, which critics argue is but a veneer for cronyism.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In a reflection of "Animal Farm," the populace, like the trusting pigs, lowers their defenses, embracing hope over skepticism, longing for the elusive Sugarcandy Mountain to materialize. This analogy serves as a cautionary reminder of the power of words and the vulnerability of hope when it is manipulated by those in positions of influence.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-5605765047733292012023-11-06T13:19:00.002+10:002023-11-06T13:19:12.041+10:00Decentralizing Power as a Catalyst for Development<i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQg4lndXveMVXCfCesD-blyCizc9NFWR1ZqDv9L7uO32tJ5fmcbiZB7aK-RoTugrHfNujmM4zBDlDpW48OFY9rOstO91nlmmXeFuT17FEVQcwGTHZjrlNDdGR9p-1cbBUw-C3Jozpm3fNibkRn5wMS4EMUAqG_YLIWFX3DPDk3-xEJPYmxaJqnNfbDuts/s940/7652154-3x2-940x627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="940" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQg4lndXveMVXCfCesD-blyCizc9NFWR1ZqDv9L7uO32tJ5fmcbiZB7aK-RoTugrHfNujmM4zBDlDpW48OFY9rOstO91nlmmXeFuT17FEVQcwGTHZjrlNDdGR9p-1cbBUw-C3Jozpm3fNibkRn5wMS4EMUAqG_YLIWFX3DPDk3-xEJPYmxaJqnNfbDuts/w640-h426/7652154-3x2-940x627.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />by</i>: Nelson Wandi<br /><br />At nearly half a century since its establishment, Papua New Guinea (PNG) has seen tepid progress in development, with sluggish advancement in the economy, infrastructure, and technology. Despite independence, the nation has struggled to utilize its abundant resources effectively due to the persistent mismanagement by ineffectual political leaders over the past 49 years.<br /><br />PNG, in truth, operates more as a dependent state, heavily reliant on financial aid from more developed nations through loans, grants, and emergency financial packages to sustain its development efforts.<br /><br />Repeated leadership failures marked by kleptocracy have taken their toll, causing the country to rely excessively on external resources and assistance, leading to a stagnation of state functionality over the years.<br /><br />Development has been stunted, with no significant improvements in public policy or emergence of modern infrastructure and technological advances in both urban and rural settings. Economic reforms have been feeble, causing major economic indicators to flatline.<br /><br />The government’s attempts to assure the public through media of development policies are perceived as insincere, breeding mistrust and skepticism about the government’s capacity to address corruption and actually implement proposed development policies.<br /><br />The suggestion from Chief Sir Peter Ipatas, governor of Enga, regarding the decentralization of power, is critical. His vision for provincial autonomy demands urgent attention and implementation to enable provinces to manage their affairs independently, particularly those that are financially capable of doing so without central government assistance.<br /><br />Such decentralization could alleviate the national government's burden, especially in light of the dire financial challenges, and ensure compliance with rules and regulations at the district level. Yet, the allocation of public resources remains narrow and corrupt, depriving many communities of much-needed funds and public services, pushing local migration to urban centers and exacerbating urban problems.<br /><br />With PNG’s rich natural resources, including significant contributions from minerals, petroleum, and agriculture to the nation's export revenue, the persistent need for foreign assistance is perplexing and indicative of mismanagement.<br /><br />The high cost of living and ineffective government control over pricing and tax policies, coupled with regulatory bodies hampered by red tape, exacerbate the situation. Political interference and poor economic policy have adverse impacts on development prospects.<br /><br />The mismanagement of the economy and public funds has led to a neglect of rural areas, a situation that contrasts sharply with other Pacific nations. It's a failure on the government’s part, which has shown no ambition or meaningful effort to prioritize public interest, especially in underserved areas.<br /><br />The government must focus on resetting its policies and embracing the decentralization of power, as proposed by Sir Ipatas, to drive development forward. Autonomy for provinces could provide a more effective approach to development, governance, and the provision of public services.<br /><br />After 49 years of underwhelming development, it is clear that the government has not matured to the point of running the country independently. The rich natural resources of PNG are being depleted by the corrupt practices of self-interested leaders, and the leadership at the national level lacks the necessary tact and diplomacy.<br /><br />For PNG to heal and progress, the government must urgently prepare for and implement provincial autonomy as a developmental strategy. This change could be pivotal for the nation's future, fostering local empowerment and more equitable development.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-49742583553421306172023-11-06T13:12:00.000+10:002023-11-06T13:12:03.509+10:00Australian Exploits in Papua New Guinea's Vulnerable Economy<i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0-BnMa4e7nL6J25JQN_0fDG3yhLMuDMr_7Bcax30wTNT8UjnbpQeX0e7vk-kkHGNjYtJ489ArJh0KT8kWVblz6rNU8orK6YJPXT2jAxciycE_XSqPLZXL6_JvaixWRE24jhfxcp1-DAu5f-g7CxelDXi5HuvvCXD-GdhOD71Hv6hog9Zn4dmErUkIAf4/s562/pfils.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="448" data-original-width="562" height="510" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0-BnMa4e7nL6J25JQN_0fDG3yhLMuDMr_7Bcax30wTNT8UjnbpQeX0e7vk-kkHGNjYtJ489ArJh0KT8kWVblz6rNU8orK6YJPXT2jAxciycE_XSqPLZXL6_JvaixWRE24jhfxcp1-DAu5f-g7CxelDXi5HuvvCXD-GdhOD71Hv6hog9Zn4dmErUkIAf4/w640-h510/pfils.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />by</i> David Lepi<br /><br />PORT MORESBY. Back in 1997, Papua New Guinea's currency, the kina, plummeted nearly 50% against the US and Australian dollars, with interest rates soaring above 20%. The nation's economic struggles echoed today's downturn with kina at US38c and similarly low foreign exchange reserves.<br /><br />Amid this financial turmoil, the government's chief economic adviser, Dr. Pirouz Hamidian Rad, an Australian-based Iranian and former World Bank economist, proposed a controversial fix. He suggested that PNG solicit a $US1.8 billion loan from Taiwan in exchange for diplomatic recognition—despite PNG's commitment to China's One China Policy. Dr. Rad's guidance appeared self-serving, potentially aiding in securing his $3 million salary over two years.<br /><br />However, this strategy was short-lived. In July 1999, with the inauguration of Prime Minister Sir Mekere Morauta, PNG reaffirmed its One China policy, severed ties with Taiwan, and dismissed Dr. Rad.<br /><br />Another Australian, Glen Blake, closely associated with the Somare political family, leveraged his connections to become Managing Director of the Independent Public Business Corporation (IPBC). Under the guise of mentoring Auther Somare, the then Minister for Public Enterprise with limited education, Blake steered decisions that benefitted himself, including the contentious IPIC deal. This deal involved leveraging PNG's shares in Oil Search Ltd to fund the government's stake in the PNG LNG project, a move rumored to involve kickbacks from Middle Eastern partners.<br /><br />Blake even orchestrated the relocation of IPBC’s operations to Brisbane, suggesting a further divergence from PNG's interests.<br /><br />Sir Mekere Morauta, tasked with reforming state enterprises during the O'Neill-Namah administration, attempted to rectify these actions, aiming to restore economic stability and growth to PNG.<br /><br />In a similar vein, Paul Flanagan, initially arriving in PNG as an Australian Treasury officer, was later implicated in accusations of espionage in 2016, leading to his dismissal from the Treasury advisory team. He then joined the Pacific Public Policy School at the Australian National University, a move that seemed to validate suspicions of his earlier intentions.<br /><br />Under Treasurer Ian Ling Stuckey's term beginning in 2019, Flanagan secured a lucrative, though undisclosed, agreement to serve as the principal economic advisor. His tenure has been controversial, marked by extensive travel with Stuckey and key decisions leading to PNG's economic distress and dependence on the IMF. Flanagan is also linked to the contentious ousting of Bank of PNG Governors Loi Bakani and Benny Popoitai.<br /><br />The profits from his dealings, funneled through his firms Indo-Pacific Public Policy and Economics and Kumul Advisory, are undisclosed but presumed substantial by observers. His recent property acquisition in Canberra and business ventures, including the establishment of Paradisaea Pisin Ltd with his wife, suggest significant personal financial gains.<br /><br />As Flanagan's influence wanes with the potential fall of his political ally, Treasurer Ling Stuckey, his recommendations for a Supplementary Budget in October, ahead of the formal budget discussions for 2024, highlight the urgency of correcting the spendthrift policies that included his own exorbitant fees.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-23130815965243337002023-11-06T13:04:00.005+10:002023-11-06T13:04:58.537+10:00 Unmanaged Urban Growth Spells Crisis for the Nation<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCn1ISle9wOR0Ph3n0DIRFPZU77y9e5fdfcCW7d1pYPp3Lh5pJRG83pUGiRJY7gGsBO4Ow7lpx9EoB-tZk8BuE8rVfNz3LbuH9ZuzxQp8AifMOwTYZgxUhXUmtzZnjPrlvprwuXJbq_eVakuf78fJp-TlJ_Ns2qg3mXV5HUHKfQwz8fEoNW57J6xXf_lE/s954/Capture.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="728" data-original-width="954" height="488" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCn1ISle9wOR0Ph3n0DIRFPZU77y9e5fdfcCW7d1pYPp3Lh5pJRG83pUGiRJY7gGsBO4Ow7lpx9EoB-tZk8BuE8rVfNz3LbuH9ZuzxQp8AifMOwTYZgxUhXUmtzZnjPrlvprwuXJbq_eVakuf78fJp-TlJ_Ns2qg3mXV5HUHKfQwz8fEoNW57J6xXf_lE/w640-h488/Capture.PNG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><i>by</i> Nelson Wandi<p></p><p>Our nation faces a critical challenge: the unchecked surge in urban populations is outpacing the growth of our economy, making it impossible to meet the needs of the densely packed towns and cities.</p><p>The swelling numbers in our urban centers are occurring where services are already insufficient, leading to unsustainable overcrowding that falls short of basic living standards.</p><p>A significant rise in the urban populace, consisting of both foreign migrants and local residents moving from rural areas, has filled our cities beyond their capacities. This trend, which began to sharply increase in 2011, has triggered a population boom in urban regions while rural areas are witnessing a stark decline.</p><p>Rural communities are dwindling as people flee from continuous violence and inadequate government services, which have been persistent since the early 2010s. Students seeking education, workers searching for employment, and the marginalized fleeing poor conditions in villages are all part of this exodus, indicative of the government's failure to provide essential services in remote areas.</p><p>Those relocating to urban centers encounter neglected services and ongoing law and order issues, as government development resources fail to reach the most disadvantaged communities. This neglect leads to stark disparities and undermines the government's role in outlying regions.</p><p>The burgeoning urban populations are not merely spreading across the land; they are a symptom of deeper issues, including security concerns and a profound lack of government intervention in isolated locations.</p><p>Living conditions in urban areas are alarmingly substandard compared to countries like Australia and New Zealand, with the cost of living skyrocketing. People are packed into every available space, stretching infrastructure to its limits, with many unable to afford their basic needs, let alone thrive, due to the absence of regulatory mechanisms.</p><p>The government's consideration of measures such as the Vagrancy law or the removal of informal vendors is laughably misguided and an ineffective attempt at addressing the underlying problems. Such policies would only criminalize vulnerable populations who are already struggling to survive and contribute to the economy.</p><p>The growth of the urban population poses a significant challenge to the government, which should be providing meaningful opportunities for these citizens. Simple solutions like housing for the homeless, job creation, education for uneducated youth, and innovative population planning could drive socio-economic development.</p><p>The push for a Vagrancy law and the closure of informal markets reflect leadership inadequacy and a crisis of confidence within the nation. The government must develop comprehensive policies to provide employment, housing, and educational subsidies aimed at nurturing intelligence within the populace.</p><p>Currently, the government's inaction on these escalating problems is glaringly obvious. Despite five years in power, the Marape administration has largely offered empty promises without tangible outcomes. High-traffic policies and regulations have been ineffective, leaving the country at a crossroads.</p><p>The country cannot afford to endure a protracted leadership crisis. The government has ample opportunity to step up and act, and there's no excuse for inaction, especially when compared to more advanced countries.</p><p>Now is the time for a robust opposition, civil society groups, churches, and NGOs to assert themselves, ensuring checks and balances, exposing misconduct, and pressuring the government to fulfill its responsibilities.</p><p>The current administration's complacency, satisfied with offering mere platitudes as political propaganda, must be confronted with active civic engagement to prompt meaningful governmental action.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-36174658894212627582023-11-06T12:47:00.002+10:002023-11-06T12:47:15.478+10:00 Tax Hike on Logging Stymies Industry Growth<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5LivUABwOUd6R_VnoODVSr9wNoEkI79VS9fy3EL3cuqw8H2S9RWvzlFpqtrlIuQLVcRqlQil8kXbK5ri9qUrNDrh5Bxxy2YDkx-Q4npegANU5APXO51P2T8RwZHyJSbNsfzr3oMG8hg5gusZWjmvMWV4TcK8x3A7hzAzinbHA4GJWNeORtQ0Jxt-EIhA/s862/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="504" data-original-width="862" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5LivUABwOUd6R_VnoODVSr9wNoEkI79VS9fy3EL3cuqw8H2S9RWvzlFpqtrlIuQLVcRqlQil8kXbK5ri9qUrNDrh5Bxxy2YDkx-Q4npegANU5APXO51P2T8RwZHyJSbNsfzr3oMG8hg5gusZWjmvMWV4TcK8x3A7hzAzinbHA4GJWNeORtQ0Jxt-EIhA/w640-h374/4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />By David Lepi<p></p><p>There is a bitter irony in the developed world's environmental strategy: nations that prospered through deforestation and fossil fuels now mandate developing countries like Papua New Guinea (PNG) to conserve forests as a climate change mitigation measure, offering financial incentives for these carbon-stabilizing efforts.</p><p>This backdrop sets the stage for PNG's recent tax reforms. In December 2022, under Prime Minister James Marape's government, the export tax on logging was increased from 38% to 50%, then sharply to 70%. While these hikes bolstered the government's revenue, they simultaneously led to a dramatic downturn in the logging sector.</p><p>Treasurer Ian Ling-Stuckey's decision has been met with staunch criticism, especially from the vociferous politician, MP Belden Namah of Vanimo Green. Namah warns that the industry, once buoyant, is now crippled, citing the closure of 57 logging projects, leaving only 10 operational. This policy, according to Namah, is directly linked to the loss of 3,000 to 5,000 jobs.</p><p>Logging offers several economic advantages, including employment in multiple sectors, revenue generation from timber and its byproducts, fostering overall economic growth, and contributing to international trade. PNG, with two-thirds of its land under forest cover and harvesting levels below sustainable yields, has untapped potential in this industry. Despite this, the majority of its citizens remain impoverished.</p><p>Before the government's Connect PNG initiative, logging companies were instrumental in developing infrastructure and essential services like health and education in rural areas. Nonetheless, the environmental impact of logging, such as ecosystem damage, biodiversity loss, and social conflicts, cannot be ignored. Sustainable forestry practices are crucial to balance these economic benefits with environmental stewardship.</p><p>Sustainable forestry in PNG must overcome significant challenges, including minimizing social and cultural disruption, enhancing local development from forest management, and allocating sufficient resources to monitor logging activities.</p><p>The PNG Forest Industry Association outlines the market as follows: The industry mainly exports raw logs, especially to Asia, with China being the largest market. Processed products, though less significant, are also important, with markets in Australia, New Zealand, and other Pacific nations. Despite 48 years of independence, PNG's forest resources, like fisheries and agriculture, remain underutilized.</p><p>Advocates like MP Belden Namah, with extensive experience in forestry, assert that managing this sector sustainably is feasible and vital for PNG's economic advancement.</p><p>Lastly, the forestry sector in PNG faces one of the heaviest taxation burdens, which discourages investment and stifles economic growth. The Marape government's tax regime risks constraining the nation's economic potential, thereby limiting the taxable base and reducing opportunities for PNG's citizens to engage in the formal economy.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-39381726984603140762023-11-06T12:42:00.004+10:002023-11-06T12:42:49.683+10:00IGIRI WANDARI EXPRESS<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFrPezAXdGmZlPufrll5K8zrb0BG1tlCLn0l6ZOO49UhO1Z8BN-h20az-H4WpT2DGnoV9cqcdwE6xiaeY4ofF4oZv2P8dwhIUkkGTtsfLKpnFFD6bJH8IUpPhsfEUZQjQAs3libyeXu4QfVPc7Kvwwj9JHUINDqcBpcreV93Toca4KBQM9Y8PobjmHs_Y/s566/Capture.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="404" data-original-width="566" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFrPezAXdGmZlPufrll5K8zrb0BG1tlCLn0l6ZOO49UhO1Z8BN-h20az-H4WpT2DGnoV9cqcdwE6xiaeY4ofF4oZv2P8dwhIUkkGTtsfLKpnFFD6bJH8IUpPhsfEUZQjQAs3libyeXu4QfVPc7Kvwwj9JHUINDqcBpcreV93Toca4KBQM9Y8PobjmHs_Y/w640-h456/Capture.PNG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>by </i>Ombul Roke<br /><br /></div></div>In recent events, Prime Minister James Marape of Papua New Guinea has been noted for his extensive international travels, the most by any leader in the nation's history. Papua New Guinea, grappling with intense geopolitical strife, rampant violence, declining public safety, spiraling inflation, unemployment, and entrenched corruption, continues to see its prime minister indulge in the use of public funds for travels with entourages comprising political allies, acquaintances, and relatives.<p></p><p>This stark contrast paints a picture reminiscent of a pauper robed in luxury yet carelessly tossing away riches a metaphor for a leader whose actions do not reflect concern for the common welfare but rather a penchant for lavishness and excess. Marape's flamboyant political gestures have garnered international scrutiny, casting him in an unfavorable light reminiscent of authoritarian excess.</p><p>In defense, Marape's spokespeople tout these journeys as productive, despite the silent return after expending millions in public funds on trips that are criticized as sycophantic engagements or mere participation in photo opportunities.</p><p>The global advancement in technology facilitates easy access to intelligence and data mining, enabling potential investors to assess Papua New Guinea's fluctuating legal landscape, security challenges, and the steep costs associated with business operations without attending extravagant trade shows or conferences an effort that, after four years under Marape's administration, has yet to yield new foreign investment.</p><p>The Marape administration's mantra of "Increased equity for the people" rings hollow in the face of the New Pogera's failed 51% equity arrangement, a stark testament to the ineffectiveness of leveraging equity in project negotiations.</p><p>Candidly, the issue lies in Prime Minister Marape's approach to governance. The country's situation, which has deteriorated over the past four years, is poised to worsen with each passing year under his tenure as the representative for Tari/Pori. The erratic and inconsistent nature of his leadership threatens to exacerbate the suffering of Papua New Guineans.</p><p>Regrettably, the apparent indifference of our leaders, coupled with a 'seize the day' mentality, is doing little to uplift spirits. Some leaders, despite their intelligence, reputable standing, and extensive experience, choose to join the fray out of fear of causing upset or simply to conform politically.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6500433815145563157.post-25957752221505097222023-11-06T12:14:00.003+10:002023-11-06T12:14:19.209+10:00Short term wins... Still a long way off.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkY5vfUQ1JDQfixnMSYeVbzm45d09uqaX4IHA9vgqJpGH2yabzYWBwuzBzsQOi5GdVhkIikjRyq4qR6T2hxxsLEDr1s-a2nQ-7_rFlYI94xDuhTkxwX4EU3S5yGdXcUuqJHJ2sMXwXQ_vOtXtwB8lWhZXDE8Vb7Mal5WAFIp3yxj-9ZT-YZR0thBu729w/s2048/398930633_741806591319203_8539277535982509984_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1899" data-original-width="2048" height="593" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkY5vfUQ1JDQfixnMSYeVbzm45d09uqaX4IHA9vgqJpGH2yabzYWBwuzBzsQOi5GdVhkIikjRyq4qR6T2hxxsLEDr1s-a2nQ-7_rFlYI94xDuhTkxwX4EU3S5yGdXcUuqJHJ2sMXwXQ_vOtXtwB8lWhZXDE8Vb7Mal5WAFIp3yxj-9ZT-YZR0thBu729w/w640-h593/398930633_741806591319203_8539277535982509984_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><i>by </i>JERRY LONGBLUT<p></p><p>In Papua New Guinea (PNG), there's a striking imbalance between the enthusiasm for the national rugby team, the Kumuls, and the urgent necessity to tackle the country’s socioeconomic and law enforcement difficulties. Despite enduring 47 years of political instability, the nation’s focus seems to skew towards the glamour of sports triumphs rather than confronting fundamental problems that require immediate attention.</p><p>This disparity in priorities becomes evident when looking at the financial support the Kumuls receive. Each year, a significant portion of the government’s budget, fueled by the hard-earned money of taxpayers and investments from the private sector, is channeled into supporting the rugby team. These funds, which could potentially facilitate economic growth and enhance vital public services, are instead being spent on the team’s activities, including costly international games.</p><p>Taxpayers and businesses expect their contributions to improve infrastructure, health, education, and security. Yet, they witness a substantial portion of these funds being diverted to sports. This misallocation raises concerns about whether the investment in the Kumuls is justifiable when the country grapples with poverty, crime, and inadequate public services.</p><p>The government’s investment in sports, symbolized by the Kumuls, becomes even more contentious when this financial commitment seems to overshadow its role as a facilitator of the nation’s development. While the Kumuls might be a source of national pride, their financing appears to become a burden when the taxpayers expect their contributions to be spent on initiatives that have a direct impact on their quality of life.</p><p>PNG’s entrenched issues, such as corruption, violence, and the breakdown of law and order, require a robust and concerted effort from the government. These issues cannot be resolved through the nation’s sports achievements. Instead, there is a dire need for a strategic overhaul of policies, aimed at strengthening institutions, promoting good governance, and ensuring economic prosperity.</p><p>Although the Kumuls may bring some benefits by creating jobs and contributing to educational initiatives, these advantages are relatively minor when considering the broader context of national development. The immediate need is for comprehensive strategies that go beyond the rugby field, strategies that aim for the rehabilitation of the nation’s economic and social fabric.</p><p>For PNG to move forward, the government must lay down a solid foundation of policies that prioritize economic stability, transparent governance, and sustainable growth. Emphasizing sports, particularly the funding of the Kumuls, needs to be reevaluated in light of the pressing matters that remain unaddressed. The government should instead be channeling its efforts into regulatory reform, improving public service delivery, and creating an environment conducive to private sector investment.</p><p>The longstanding approach of prioritizing non-economic activities, such as sports, has hindered the nation's progress. True development can only be achieved by addressing the root causes of corruption, the inefficiency of bureaucracy, and the weaknesses within government institutions. There’s a need for a shift in government strategy, moving from a focus on superficial, short-lived initiatives to one on sustainable policy reforms.</p><p>Ultimately, for PNG to forge a path towards sustainable development, it must look beyond immediate gratifications like sports victories. The government must learn from successful governance models worldwide and firmly prioritize the country’s long-term interests over transient, though popular, pursuits. Only through a committed approach to tackling its complex and multifaceted issues can PNG hope to steer itself away from the troubles of its past and towards a more prosperous and stable future.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0