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Stop suppressing media workers for political brownie points!

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Media Council President Neville Choi and FM100 Talkback show Host Culligan Tanda at the Parliamentary Committee Hearing

The Media Council of Papua New Guinea in a statement is calling on the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, James Marape and his government to crack down on the Board and Management of Telikom PNG Limited and stop what has become the practice of silencing and suppressing media personnel who work for government-owned media organisations Kalang Advertising Limited (FM100) and Media Niugini Limited (EMTV).

The Council highlighted the cases of FM100 Talkback Show Host Culligan Tanda, who was initially suspended for three weeks without pay, and subsequently issued a termination notice by KAL Chief Executive Officer, Bill Wartovo upon the completion of his suspension period this Wednesday; and the case of former EMTV Reporter, James Guken, who says he was terminated without notice after writing an online news article quoting the Parliamentary Opposition.

Mr. Tanda received his suspension notice following a NASFUND FM100 Talkback Show programme which featured the Governor of East Sepik, Allan Bird following the last Vote of No Confidence motion in Parliament.

Mr. Guken says he was terminated without notice after writing the online article which featured quotes from ESP Governor Bird.

Media Council President, Neville Choi says these two cases of media suppression are only two of the latest in a series of media worker terminations by the Board and Management of the Telikom PNG Group since 2018.

“In 2019 I was terminated for refusing to act on a directive from the then Telikom PNG CEO to terminate then EMTV News Producer Sincha Dimara and EMTV Deputy News Manager Scott Waide over an overseas news Television story featuring the then New Zealand Prime Minister who had publicly stated that she would not be riding in any of the purchased Maserati luxury sedans when attending APEC 2018. The directive was based on what was perceived as painting the government of the day in a negative light.

“In 2022 a full newsroom of 24 media personnel employed by EMTV were terminated en masse, following their walkout protest against intense intimidation and harassment by the then EMTV Acting CEO.

Mr. Choi said that in each of these cases, Telikom PNG initiated what it described as ‘internal investigations’, the results of which were never made known to the parties under investigation, but inevitably ended with media worker terminations.

“A free, robust, and independent media is an essential pillar of democracy. It is the cornerstone of allowing freedom of speech, and freedom of expression. Being in a position of power and authority gives no one, especially brown-nosing public servants wanting to score brownie points with the sitting government administration, the right to suppress media workers who are only doing their jobs, and doing it well,” Mr. Choi says.

The Council also reminded the managements of State-owned media organisations, that Section 5 of the Organic Law on the Independent Commission Against Corruption (OLICAC) includes within the definition of corrupt conduct by public officials, the dishonest exercising and abusing of official functions.

Kalang Advertising Limited (FM100), similar to Media Niugini Limited (EMTV) are subsidiaries of the Telikom PNG Group, a state-owned enterprise within the portfolio of Kumul Consolidated Holdings under the Ministry of State-Owned Enterprises.

The Board and Management of Kalang, Telikom and KCH falls within the scope of ‘public officials’ under Section 9 ICAC which includes a member of staff, an officer, or a member of a public body.

The Council calls on the ICAC to investigate the matter for corrupt conduct to establish if processes were abused to penalize both Culligan Tanda, and James Guken formerly of EMTV for their reporting.

The Council recognises the emotional and mental stress this kind of suppression has on media personnel, and has from the beginning of Culligan Tanda’s suspension, respected his wishes and approach to it.

The MCPNG Executive Board, with the support of its mainstream media members, calls for an immediate and permanent stop to this suppression of the media in PNG.

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News

Rice Board Discusses Partnership with NARI for Largescale Production

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Rice has become a staple food in many households. The Government is now looking at the potential to increase small holder production and at the same time maximize commercial farming.

The newly created Rice and Grain Board is at the forefront of achieving this Marape Rosso Government’s dream.

The Board Chairman, Mr Koren Maso visited the National Agriculture Research Institute (NARI) on Tuesday (13/05/25) to discuss avenues available for NARI to assist the Rice and Grain Board.

On hand to received Mr Maso was Director General of NARI, Dr Nelson Simbiken and Deputy Director, Dr Peter Gendua.

Discussions surrounded partnerships with the research centre to achieve the Government’s ambition to increase commercial rice production, assist small holder farmers with machinery  to increase and improve yields while also looking at the potential to export seeds.

Maso visited the research site and had expert advise from Agronomist Mr Anthon Beko and Dr Gendua, who is an expert in Rice Farming and Techniques.

NARI currently has four lowland (coastal) rice varieties under research at the Momase Regional Centre.

After a tour of the rice paddies, the NARI experts explain the difference in variety, pest control, water management and the mechanisms for ploughing and harvesting using different machinery.

With technical and land support from NARI, Mr Maso hopes to reduce and over time replace rice imports.

Mr Maso assumed the role of the Chairman of the Rice and Grain Board in Dec 2023 following an NEC decision to set up the Board and prioritise the implementation of the National Rice Policy 2015-2030.

NEC Decision No. 369/2023, endorses K10 million to commence large scale commercial rice farm in PNG from the commercialization fund using NARI and Livestock Development Corporation (LDC) land for the first 2000 hectares with its regional seed banks to service 10 000 MSME rice out-growers to feed the large-scale commercial rice farm and rice mill.

An additional K1million is for the establishment of the Rice and Grain Board.

40% of the K11 million funding support is for the Seed Bank and the Out-Growers component.

Director General of NARI, Dr Nelson Simbiken said work will commence once that 40% funding is released.

“With many years of research, NARI is excited to partner with the Rice and Grain Board to take action and achieve the Government’s vision of large-scale rice production and downstream processing.”

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Investigation

Chinese Mine Boss Convicted Over PNG Gun Incident Had Criminal Record in China

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By Julie Badui-Owa and Carmel Pilotti

A Chinese mine manager convicted last week over a shooting in Papua New Guinea moved to the Pacific country shortly after serving a prison sentence in China for a series of violent extortions, according to Chinese legal records.

Li Dezhang, 56, was found guilty by a court in the PNG city of Lae on May 1 for unlicensed possession of a firearm, unlawful discharge, and assault over a mid-April incident in which he fired a Chinese-made pistol at another Chinese citizen who had confronted him about unpaid bills.

Li had worked as a manager of Guangcai Mining Limited, which operated three unlicensed gold minesin Bulolo province, and which had been the subject of complaints of environmental destruction from the local communities.

Immigration authorities and police last week detained 19 workers at one of the company’s mines and deported most of them after finding that they didn’t have the proper work permits, Lae’s police commander, Chief Superintendent Chris Kunyanbun, told OCCRP and Inside PNG.

Guangcai Mining Limited’s gold mine in Wau Waria District, Morobe Province (Photo: Julie Badui-Owa)

Li was responsible for bringing the illegally employed workers into the country, Kunyanbun said.

Before his arrival in PNG, Li already had a criminal history in China for a series of offences he had committed in West Africa, according to Chinese court documents.

Li was arrested in Ghana and repatriated to China in early 2020 for using violent threats to extort a casino investor in the country out of 100,000 cedi (about $7,400), as well as the kidnapping and assault of another man who owed him a debt, according to announcements from a court in Li’s home province of Guangxi.

Li served just over three years in prison, and was released in early 2023, court records show. Records in a separate civil case also show that Li was successfully sued for fraud in China for failing to deliver paid-for mining equipment to clients in Ghana.

Environmental destruction from mining has long been a public concern in resource-rich PNG.

PNG Immigration Minister John Rosso told OCCRP and Inside PNG that the raid on Gunagcai’s mine last week had to be done with officers that were “handpicked to avoid compromise.”

“We cannot practice double standards,” Rosso said. “Once they are processed anyone breaching immigration laws will be deported immediately.”

Li’s lawyer in PNG, Philemon Yama, told a reporter when asked that he had not heard of his client’s Chinese criminal record before. He had previously told the Lae court that his client had no criminal record.

“I have no idea of Li’s criminal record from other countries. But in Lae, I checked with the Lae courts, Li has no criminal record,” said Philemon Yama.

Guangcai did not respond to questions.

Li is due for sentencing next Wednesday.

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News

Sasingian Steps Down From Top Job

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After serving the charity arm of Digicel PNG, Digicel PNG Foundation as the CEO for six years, Serena Sasingian has handed over the reins.

Digicel PNG today announced that Sasingian has stepped down from the CEO position.

During her tenure with the Digicel PNG Foundation, Ms. Sasingian has been instrumental in overseeing an investment of K200 million into community projects across all 96 districts of Papua New Guinea.

Her leadership and dedication has had a significant impact on the lives of many, fostering development and growth in various communities particularly in the area of education and literacy.

“Serena’s contributions to the Digicel PNG Foundation and the communities it serves have been

invaluable,” said Roary Stasko, CEO of Telstra International.

“Her passion and commitment have left an indelible mark, and we are deeply grateful for her service.”

Valda Kereu, Programs Manager, Digicel PNG Foundation, has been appointed to the role of Acting CEO while the Foundation conducts a search for a permanent successor.

Ms. Kereu has been in her role for the past three years and brings a wealth of experience in community development and a deep understanding of the Foundation’s mission and values.

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News

SLAPP- A New Threat to Media and Free Speech in PNG

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May 3rd is observed every year as World Press Freedom Day.

It is a day dedicated to raise awareness of the importance of freedom of the press or the media, and remind governments of their duty to uphold and maintain freedom of expression.

Eddie Tanago from Act Now, says Papua New Guinea is one tough environment to be a journalist or an advocate for good governance and human rights.

He said  PNG is riddled with corruption that has grown tentacles into every sphere of life and trying to expose it can mean facing death threats and expensive lawsuits.

“In recent times, journalists and human rights defenders and advocates have come under attack from a new threat called Strategic Litigation Against Public Participation (SLAPP),” said Tanago.

Tanago has faced several SLAPPS in his line of work as an advocacy officer of Good Governance and Transparency.

A recent criminal case against him was thrown out by the Waigani Committal Court for lack of sufficient evidence. The case was between Mr Tanago and the PNG Forest Authority boss John Mosoro.

A SLAPP is a lawsuit filed by someone in a position of authority and power, whether in government or business, that is intended to silencing legitimate criticism and free speech. It is a deliberate misuse of the court systems to intimate and harass critics and involve them in expensive and time-consuming litigation

SLAPPs can have huge impacts that include:

  • Financially and psychologically draining the victim;
  • Reputational damage and harm;
  • Imprisonment; 
  • Wasting court time and resources;
  • Silencing critics and instilling fear.

SLAPPs have been frequently used in countries like the USA, Europe and in Australia against journalists, civil society and human rights defenders.

In light of this threat, some countries have created laws that have made SLAPPs illegal.

In Papua New Guinea though, SLAPPs are a relatively new concept but one that is on the rise.

Tanago said to ensure that freedom of speech is maintained the government needs to:

  • Introduce anti- SLAPP laws in PNG
  • Provide training for judges and lawyers so they are able to identify SLAPPs
  • Ensure its own Ministers, MPs and officials are not using SLAPPS to silence critics; 
  • Educate the public about SLAPPs and their impact in suppressing freedom of speech
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Sport

K50 000 Support for 48th National Game Fishing Title

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The National Game Fishing Titles, Papua New Guinea’s premier fishing event, is back – this time, it is

taking place in the stunning waters of East New Britain.

Scheduled from April 11 to 21, 2025, the competition promises an exciting experience for both

anglers and spectators.

Now in its 48th edition, the event brings together teams from across Papua New Guinea and the

Pacific, with participants competing in teams of two to four.

The event will see anglers displaying their skills in one of the country’s most scenic marine environments.

Trukai Industries Limited has once again reaffirmed its commitment to the sporting event, renewing

its sponsorship of K50, 000 with the Game Fishing Association of Papua New Guinea (GFAPNG).

Trukai’s Marketing Manager, Peggy Maha, expressed the company’s eagerness to continue its

partnership for the event.

“Trukai is proud to once again be the sponsors of the National Game Fishing Titles. Since its

inception in 1976, the competition has grown into an important national event, and we are

delighted to support it this year,” said Maha.

“We believe this partnership with GFAPNG not only supports the tournament but also contributes to

promoting sports tourism in Papua New Guinea.”

New Britain Game Fishing Club president, Jason Seeto, also shared his excitement about the

tournament.

“This event continues to showcase PNG’s vibrant marine life and the spirit of competition among our

anglers,” he said.

“We are thrilled to bring the 48th National Titles to East New Britain, a province rich in natural

beauty and community pride and an ideal location to host the National Game Fishing Title.”

The event promises an unforgettable experience for participants and spectators, with various

competitions, social events, and community engagements planned alongside the main tournament.

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News

NGO: PNG Forest Authority should Focus on irradicating illegal logging rather than trying to silence its critics

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Brown skinned man with a beard

Campaign Manager for Act Now Eddie Tanago is now more then ever, adamant to hold the PNG Forest Authority accountable for Papua New Guineans who have lost their land rights due to logging.

These were the sentiments he shared after the Waigani Committal Court struck out his Cyber Crime Charge.

A criminal charge of Identity Theft against Tanago was struck out by Magistrate Mr. Paul Puri Nii, as there were insufficient evidence to proceed to the National Court.

A prominent civil society advocate, Tanago was arrested and charged by police in December 2024 following a complaint made by the Managing Director of the PNG Forest Authority.

This was after ACT NOW had hosted a public seminar highlighting the abuse of Forest Clearing Authorities by foreign-owned logging companies who use the licences as a cover for large-scale illegal logging.

The charge against Tanago alleged that he had committed identity theft by reposting on social media an advertisement for an FM100 talk-back show where the Managing Director was due to appear and which included his photograph.

Eddie Tanago says he is delighted that the court has dismissed the charge against him and thanked his family and all those who have supported his fight for justice.

Tanago says that he was always convinced that justice would be done and that the charge against him would be dismissed.

He has also expressed his gratitude to his lawyer, Carlos Tsora from Posman Kua Asi Lawyers.

Tanago says that the criminal charge against him has only reinforced his determination to speak out against corruption, widespread illegal logging and the abuse of FCA licences.

He also says the criminal charge against him was a further example of the growing use of SLAPP lawsuits in PNG.

SLAPP lawsuits, or Strategic Litigation Against Public Participation, are a misuse of the legal system by people in positions of power who want to silence their critics through intimidation and unwarranted but costly legal proceedings.

While common in some overseas countries, SLAPPS have until recently been rare in PNG.

In 2024, ACT NOW was the victim of two civil SLAPP lawsuits brought by Malaysian logging companies trying to prevent circulation of reports about their logging activities. Neither of those lawsuits was successful.

Tanago says the dismissal of the case against him is another win for freedom of speech and democracy in Papua New Guinea.

Tanago is urging the PNGFA to take effective action to prevent illegal logging under FCA licences rather than trying to intimidate and silence public debate on a national issue of critical importance.

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News

Private Sector Acknowledged for Maintaining the Livestock Industry

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The private sector through large scale agriculture companies and small holder farmers were praised for “holding the fort”. 

Speaking at the inaugural National Agricultural Industry Public-Private Sector Partnership Conference, Managing Director for Livestock Development Corporation Mr Terry Koim acknowledged large scale industry players for their commitment and interventions that has continued to maintain the industry. 

“I acknowledge Nuigini Tablebirds, Zenag Chicken, Ramu Agri, Duran Farm and others who persisted through often difficult situations to maintain the supply of fresh meat in the country. 

“I also acknowledge the contribution of small holder farmers, whom without any government support for the past 30 years that LDC was non-operational have managed to survive. 

“Today, we want to see how we can work with them to improve the sector. We will be having a consultation meeting in the coming weeks and we’d like to have their input in the policies that we are developing,” Koim said. 

The Livestock Development Corporation was established in 1982 by the Somare Government but operations declined in 1992 due to mismanagement and political interference. 

The Marape/Rosso Government when taking over Government in 2019 pushed for revitalization of LDC beginning with the appointment of a new Board in 2020. 

The establishment of the new Board has seen the reclaimation of over 30 000 hectares of land, reviving the cattle stocks, staff capacity building and good governance measures. 

Koim stressed the need for policy and regulatory reforms, better data collection and partnerships with private investors to support small holder farmers and develop the livestock industry. 

The National Agricultural Industry Public-Private Sector Partnership Conference was held in Lae from the 7th to the 11th of April 2025. 

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Health

A Second Chance at Life: Marchella’s Journey to Healing

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Epeanda Urban Clinic, located in Southern Highlands Province, stands as a beacon of hope for many, providing integrated healthcare that ensures individuals receive timely and holistic clinical services.

Through the Sexual & Reproductive Health Integration Project (SRHIP), the clinic has strengthened its capacity to diagnose and manage HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), offering life-saving interventions to those in need.

One such patient is Marchella Andrew, a 28-year-old woman from Karinz, Mendi Munhiu electorate, who had been battling a mysterious illness that worsened with each passing month. She first noticed severe facial rashes that spread aggressively across her face and body.

 Seeking help from various clinics and hospitals in Western Highlands Province, she was repeatedly diagnosed with skin infection and given antibiotics and creams, yet nothing worked. Desperate for relief, she turned to over-the-counter medications, but her condition only deteriorated further.

As her illness became unbearable, affecting her ability to care for her family and live a normal life, she decided to travel to Mendi, Southern Highlands Province, in search of proper medical care. At Epeanda Urban Clinic, she was attended to by Nicholas Philip, a trained health worker.

Epeanda Urban Clinic is among the 13 Catholic Church Health Services (CCHS) facilities implementing the Sexual & Reproductive Health Integration Project (SRHIP), a program of the Australian Government which CCHS is implementing in partnership with ASHM, Burnet Institute, and Igat Hope PNG.

The project ensures that health facilities provide holistic and integrated services, reaching those who need them most.

Upon seeing her, Nicholas could hardly recognize her facial features due to the severe red rashes and swelling. Sensing the urgency of her condition, he immediately took her medical history and performed an HIV Determine test. Within 15 minutes, the result was reactive.

To confirm the diagnosis, Nicholas referred her to the Epeanda Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) site, where she underwent further tests using ABON and Genie Fast kits. Both results confirmed she was HIV-positive.

For a moment, her world stood still. The weight of the diagnosis was overwhelming, but Nicholas’ pre-and post-test counseling reassured her that treatment was available and that she could regain her health.

Without delay, she was started off on Antiretroviral Therapy or (ART), along with medications for STIs, fluconazole, and albendazole to address other infections. Nicholas carefully explained the importance of faithfulness  to ART, preparing her for potential side effects and encouraging her to remain committed to the treatment.

Behind the success of cases like Marchella’s is the guidance and mentorship of Maria Koke, the Master Mentor for HIV and STI services. Her expertise has been instrumental in training health workers like Nicholas, ensuring that they deliver high-quality counseling, testing, and treatment services.

Two months later, Marchella returned for her scheduled review appointment. The transformation was remarkable—her skin had cleared, she looked healthy, and she was more energetic. With a smile, she shared her gratitude:

“I am married to a Western Highlander and have a child. We were happily living together until I got sick. I sought help in many clinics and hospitals in Western Highlands, but they only treated my symptoms. It was only when I came to Epeanda that I finally discovered the root cause of my illness. I am so grateful that I was properly diagnosed, treated, and given a second chance at life.”

Today, Marchella is one of over 600 patients actively receiving treatment at the Epeanda VCT site, which has more than 1,600 registered clients.

 The integration of HIV services within the main urban clinic has improved accessibility to testing and treatment, ensuring that more people receive timely and comprehensive care.

Her journey highlights the critical importance of early testing and accurate diagnosis. If she had continued receiving only symptomatic treatment, her health would have worsened, potentially leading to life-threatening complications.

 Health workers play a vital role in ensuring that patients undergo proper investigations and receive lifesaving interventions. However, challenges persist. Shortages of HIV test kits sometimes delay diagnosis and treatment.

Confidentiality concerns arise when family members demand to know a patient’s diagnosis. Geographical barriers also prevent many from accessing healthcare services on time.

To strengthen service delivery, Nicholas and the Epeanda Urban Clinic team emphasize the need for a consistent supply of HIV test kits, continued training and mentorship for health workers, and an expansion of Provider-Initiated Counseling and Testing (PICT) for all patients visiting the clinic.

Marchella’s story is a testament to the power of integrated healthcare services. It is a reminder that with early detection, proper treatment, and compassionate care, every patient deserves a second chance at life.

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Trukai announces Winners for the Roots: Win Your Own Home

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A marketing strategy closer to the hearts of many ordinary Papua New Guineans who dream of a owning a modern-day home.

Trukai Industries began the promotion “Roots: Win Your Own Home” on the 7th of October 2024.

“Loyal” Roots Rice customers were given the chance to get entry tickets from selected 10kg of Roots Rice purchased.

They then filled out the entry form before dropping it into an entry bin at any of the 406 participating stores across the country.

The major draw initially scheduled for the 12th of March, had to be deferred due to transportation delays with third party service providers.

Trukai Industries confirmed all entries were received by Friday 21st March, and announced a new draw date on the same day.

Today, the much-anticipated draw took place in Lae at Raumai-18, in Kokopo at Echo Supermarket, in Mt Hagen at Tininga Rainbow Supermarket, and Port Moresby at Stop and Shop, Central Waigani.

Hundreds gathered at the 4 locations, eagerly anticipating the draw, with the Trukai team adding to the excitement with fun games and prizes to entertain the waiting crowd.

The grand prize was on everyone’s mind as they witnessed the draw of a three-bedroom Bumbu Range Kit Home valued at over K132, 000.

Popular YUMI FM legend, Kasty was on hand as master of ceremony – announcing the names of the winners as the draw was done.

The lucky winners for each kit home are as follows:

Southern Region Winner: IAMO RIGANA

Momase Region Winner: MADILA JOHN

Highlands Region Winner UKUT INAKO

New Guinea Islands Winner: PAULINE SIMAHUN

Trukai Industries Regional Sales Manager for the Highlands region, Peter David, thanked all Roots consumers for their participation, and the individual outlets who supported the promotion.

 “We recognized the growing demand for housing in both urban and rural areas and wanted this promotion to give our loyal Roots consumers a real opportunity to own a house of their own,” he said.

Trukai Industries Marketing Manager, Peggy Maha, also extended her congratulations, highlighting the positive responses to the promotion despite the delays in the final draw.

 “We thank our customers for their patience and understanding over the last two weeks, as they have waited for us to confirm a draw date.

“We are happy that all entries were received, and all participants across the country were given a chance to win this kit home.

“Our consumers are very important to us, and we are proud, knowing that we have made a difference to the lives of four Papua New Guinean families today. Once again congratulations to all our winners,” Maha said.

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