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Lack of District transparency contributing to PNG’s high corruption rating

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The lack of district development plans and financial reports, a lack of public engagement, and a complete absence of oversight, raises serious concerns about the management of District Service Improvement Program (DSIP) and District Infrastructure Program (DIP) funds.

Community advocacy group Act Now says this is a huge factor contributing to PNG’s high corruption rating in the Corruption Perception Index figures.

New Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) figures, released on 11 February 2025 by Transparency International, highlight Papua New Guinea’s failure to deal with widespread corruption.

PNG is classified as having a ‘high perceived risk of corruption’ with ‘no meaningful progress’ in anti-corruption efforts.

PNG is the worst ranked country in the Pacific region and ranks 127th out of 180 countries globally.

PNG’s failure in addressing corruption challenges underscores the findings in a new report release by ACT NOW! on the performance of District Development Authorities (DDAs).

The report, which is based on an analysis of the data published on the DDA Watch website, reveals widespread failures in transparency, governance, and financial accountability among all 93 DDAs.

According to Cathy Tukne, Communications Coordinator for ACT NOW!, the findings are alarming and highlight a severe breakdown in governance at the district level.

She emphasized the urgent need for systemic reforms, stating: “The lack of accountability and public engagement by DDAs is deeply concerning.

“With millions in public funds allocated annually, citizens deserve access to key documents and direct communication with their district leaders.

“If accountability measures are not enforced, the risk of mismanagement and corruption will only grow, further damaging PNG’s CPI score,” Tukne said.

Key Findings from the report include severe lack of public access to key district documents. The report found that only 7 out of 93 DDAs have made their 2023-2027 Five-Year Development Plans public.

“There are no existing public records for Annual Budgets, Acquittal Reports, Inspection Reports, or Audit Reports. There is also a huge failure to Submit Financial Acquittals & Audits.”

Following the report, ACT NOW! calls for the following immediate actions:

• Full Public Disclosure of District Documents – All DDAs must publish their 5-year development plans, annual budgets, financial acquittals, and inspection reports.

• Increased Audit Oversight – The Auditor General’s Office (AGO) must be adequately funded to conduct independent audits of all DDAs.

• Improved Public Engagement – Citizens should demand transparency from DDAs and actively engage with the DDA Watch platform.

• Strict Funding Conditions – The Department of Finance should withhold DSIP/DIP funds from districts failing to publish key financial documents.

• Leadership Accountability – The Ombudsman Commission must investigate and act against CEOs and DDA Board Chairs who fail to meet governance and reporting standards.

• Empowering Citizens – Communities must hold their district leaders accountable by actively engaging with DDA Watch and reporting governance failures.

• Strengthening Oversight Agencies – Institutions such as the Department of Implementation and Rural Development (DIRD) need enhanced monitoring capabilities to track DDA performance.

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Villagers Displaced by Ongoing King Tides Await Urgent Government Help 

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Papuan Man

Nabuapaka village in the Kairuku District is among villages along the Central coast currently affected by the King Tides experienced these past few days.

On-going strong winds and high seas have forced about 60 people out of their homes.  

They are now struggling to find shelter and basic necessities.

The community has stepped in to help but many residents are frustrated with the slow response from the Government.

 “We didn’t have time to prepare,” said Allan Aiahu, a community representative.

“The water is rising so fast. We are losing everything.”

A woman in Nabuapaka village looks on as sea water floods her house

As families stay with relatives or in temporary shelters, the Central Provincial Disaster Office has been assessing the damage caused by the rising tides.

Officials have completed their evaluations and are now putting together a report to send to the national government.

This report will explain the needs of the displaced families and the seriousness of the situation.

According to John Iamo, a representative from the Central Provincial Disaster Office, “We are working hard to gather all the necessary information to make sure our report shows what is happening on the ground.”

Local leaders are calling for quick action to meet the urgent needs of those affected.

“We appreciate the community’s efforts to help each other, but we need more support to deal with this crisis,” said Allan Aiahu.

“Families are without food, clean water, and shelter.

 “We need support to move our houses and platforms. The village youths want to help, but they need funding for food and motivation. We also need tarpaulin for shelter, proper water tanks to catch rainwater, and food to get us through this time.”

Papua New Guinea experiences King Tides most often from November to March.

King Tides are exceptionally high tides that occur when the moon is closest to the earth (Perigee).

Weather conditions such as cyclones often intensify the effects of the high tides.

The ongoing threat of Climate Change that is affecting the weather patterns causes more destruction to people living along the coastlines like Nabuapaka. 

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29 Australian Grants awarded to remote South Fly communities

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Man signing

Australia continues to play the big brother role in the Pacific with more grands to support communities in Papua New Guinea. 

This time, it’s the neighbouring South Fly District that shares the border with Australia’s Torres Strait. 

Twenty-nine (29) ward development committee representatives from eight wards in South Fly District, Western Province, signed grant agreements for certain community projects. 

The representatives gathered in Daru from 24 to 28 February for training and induction as part of their final preparations related to their respective PNG-Australia Partnership funded community and economic development grants.

Provincial Administrator Robert Alphonse Kaiyun, Australian High Commission representative Ms Christine Charity and other dignitaries attended the event.

Australian High Commission representative Ms. Christine Charity and Western Provincial Administrator Robert Alphone Kaiyun during the grant agreement signing

Mr Kaiyun congratulated the grantees and thanked Australia, “I would like to acknowledge our close long-term partnership with Australia to deliver on Western Province’s vision to strengthen economic development and build resilient communities. 

I expect the groups receiving these grants to take ownership and work to make their projects succeed.”

Ms Charity was pleased to be in Daru to meet some of the grant recipients in person, and applauded the achievements of the eight community groups from Morehead and Oriomo-Bituri LLGs.

“I am privileged to join the ward and community representatives here in Daru to celebrate today’s signing of the first eight grant agreements, which will support egg production, sawmills, and farm equipment projects.”

“These grant projects will support local communities and people to have money in the pocket and food on the table. 

This is the Western Provincial Government’s top priority, and Australia is proud to be working hand-in- hand and side-by-side with the people of Western Province to reach some of the most remote and hard-to-reach communities.”

In 2024, technical working groups co-chaired by the Australian High Commission and Provincial and District Administrations selected 20 community development and 10 economic grant projects through a competitive application process.

Successful applicants from the Oriomu-Bituri, Morehead, Forecoast Kiwai and Fly Kiwai LLGs demonstrated that their projects would benefit the community, including women and people with disabilities, and contribute 10 per cent of project material costs. 

Local-level governments were closely involved with the applications and committed to assisting grantee communities with part of their contributions.

Mr Sampson Tago, Chairman of Sibidiri Community’s Poultry Management Committee said, “The project will greatly assist in ensuring food and financial security because it is an investment to boost our community’s economic activity.”

Signing on behalf of the Waidoro community, Ward Development Committee Chairman Mr Bazi Kazipam also expressed his happiness, “The Lucas mill project will help us improve our living conditions and develop our forestry sector through creating economic growth and supporting other local and inclusive initiatives.”

The first 8 grants signed were for egg production, sawmills, and farm equipment projects.

The remaining 22 grants for egg production, women’s resource centers, community halls, and bridges will follow in the coming months.

During the grant period, the grantees will continue to receive technical support and skills development to successfully manage and implement their grants.

The High Commission did not reveal the total amount of grand awarded, but each grant depended on the project costs that were submitted.

Successful applicants from the Oriomu-Bituri, Morehead, Forecoast Kiwai and Fly Kiwai LLGs with representatives from the Western Provincial Government and Australian High Commission
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Population Growth Puts Pressure on NCDC 

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Group Photo

As Port Moresby city booms with infrastructure developments and a growing population due to rural to urban migration, the city has a huge task of creating harmonious communities amidst different ethnic groups from all over Papua New Guinea.

A lot has changed over the years with two lane roads to four and more business investments from both foreign owned companies and locals.

Funding to ensure all these developments, services and investment thrive, the city depends heavily on the Goods and Services Tax.

With a Population of over 500 000 (2021 census), the need for a bigger budget was necessary to address not only infrastructure issues but security.

The culmination of the K800 million budget announced earlier this month proves the demand placed on the National Capital District Commission.

NCD Governor Powes Parkop overseeing all of this says the National Capital District Commission still needs a budget of K1 billion to manage and lift Port Moresby city.  

Parkop said NCDC budget is about K800 million plus – which was not enough to manage a city with 30 per cent of the country’s populations.  

“We need a budget of over K1.0 Billion to run and manage the size of Port Moresby, we are the biggest concentration of population in any parts of the country where influx of people migrating from other centers, we deserve a budget going into almost K1 billion,” he said.

Governor Parkop added that the budget was guided by goals and is aligned with few national policies such as the Medium Term Development Plan (MTDP) IV, Papua New Guinea Development Strategic Plan 2010-20230 and Vision 2050.  

Summarizing the budget, Governor Parkop highlighted the budget’s goals main allocations are as follows;  

• K304 million is allocated for infrastructure Rehabilitation and building of roads, markets and classrooms  

• K67 Million allocated for health – K17 Million is allocated by NCDC while K50 Million is allocated by the Government

• From the K17 Million allocation -Upgrade Gerehu Hospital to level 4          -Upgrade of 9 Mile Clinic         -Build a District Hospital at Moresby South         -Build a new Tuberculosis Facility

• K50 million allocated by the Government to upgrade Tete Hospital to level 5  

• K57 Million is allocated for clean-up, landscaping and beautification  

• K5.0 million for Safety and Security costs include closed Circuit Television (CCTV) Cameras • K17.0 million City Warden Program

• K3.0 million for Police Security Operations (Support Vehicle)

• K1.0 million Reserve/Community Policing  

• K25 Million is allocated to Motu Koita Assembly  

• K18 Million is allocated for NCDC Waste Collection                                                              

• K7.0 million for Settlement to Suburb upgrading program in the city  

• K6.0 million allocation for the preparation of the country’s 50th Anniversary Celebrations.  

Governor Parkop said NCDC is building more roads within the city that links up with main roads to avoid traffic congestion during peak hours.  

He said that NCDC does not have powers over land matters, so it only builds new roads to free up land while increasing its monetary value.    

Secretary Leo, who received the NCDC 2025 Budget on behalf of the Minister for Provincial and Local-level Government Affairs thanked the Governor for presenting their budget which frames at improving social services and infrastructure developments and assured that officers would run through the budget document.

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King Charles sends his Condolences for the passing of Sir J

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King Charles Sends Condolences for Sir Julius

King Charles the III has joined many friends of Papua New Guinea overseas in sending his condolences messages following the death of Chief Sir Julius Chan.

In a messaged shared by the Government House officials today, an email was received from the Buckingham Palace with Kind Charles messages in English and “Pidgin”.

King Charles described Sir J as a dedicated public servant.

“His dedication served as an inspiration to many and I remember with great fondness meeting Sir Julius many times over his decades of service.”

Meanwhile his “Pidgin” message read;

“Mi na meri blong mi sorre tru long harim long dai blong Sir Julius Chan. Em wanpla trupla pablik sevant na emi givim laik blong em long bildim Papua New Guinea igo kamap wanpla strongpla, independent kantri olsem emi stap tete.

“Dedikation blong emi istap nau olsem inspiration blong planti manmeri, na mi tingim tu planti ol gutpla taim mi bungim Sir Julius taim emi wokim wok blong em long planti yia.

“Mi na meri blong (mi) salim bikpla sorre blong mitupla igo long famili blong Sir Julius, na long olgeta pipol blong Papua New Guinea long displa taim blong sorre igo long olgeta hap blong Papua New Guinea.”

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PNG Mourns Sir Julius Chan: A Guiding Voice Now Silent

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A young Sir Julius Chan

Papua New Guinea’s ‘Last Man Standing’, Sir Julius Chan, at the ripe old age of 85, has passed away quietly and peacefully at his Huris home, in Namatanai, New Ireland Province surrounded by his family.

A pioneer statesman with over 50 years in active politics, the incumbent Governor of New Ireland Province, Sir Julius’ will forever be remembered as the last voice of experience of a Papua New Guinea that now looks to a new generation of leaders in its future.

Born between two cultures on the Catholic Mission of Tanga Island in New Ireland Province on the 29th of August, on the eve of war in 1939, to a Chinese migrant father, Chin Pak, and New Ireland mother, Miriam Tinkoris, he rose from humble beginnings, exemplifying values of hard work, integrity and a deep commitment to the betterment of society.

From a hardworking father whom he watched build boats with his own hands, he learned traits that shaped him from a young boy into a man whose style of leadership would prompt a range of responses and opinions.

Sir Julius Chan leaning in while his father, Chin Pak, whispers into his ear.
Sir Julius Chan and his father, Chin Pak (left), at celebratory event for Sir J’s 25th anniversary in politics.[[PHOTO: Playing The Game, Sir Julius Chan/Autobiography]

Sir Julius or “Sir J” as he is affectionately known, entered national politics before Papua New Guinea gained independence in 1975.

He was first elected to represent the Namatanai district of New Ireland province in the pre-independence House of Assembly in 1968.

A seat he held consecutively for five more terms; signalling the start of a long career in PNG politics, serving twice as Prime Minister.

Like many long serving politicians, Sir J’s career was not without its own share of controversy.

Whilst many highlighted his commitment and focus on economic management and praised his championing of the Organic Law on Provincial and Local Level Governments which decentralized governance and empowered local administrations as positive contributions, others were critical of his handling of the Sandline affair in 1997; an incident which led to public protest and generated significant criticism.

This prompted him to step down as Prime Minister in the same year.

For this, he will always be known as the first Prime Minister to voluntarily relinquish his post due to a national crisis.

Navigating the often-turbulent political landscape of Papua New Guinea, characterized by frequent shifts in alliances and changes in government, presented ongoing challenges to Sir J’s leadership.

Nevertheless, he proved adept at maneuvering within this complex environment, maintaining a prominent role in national politics for many years, prioritizing resource development and economic diversification to foster stability and long-term growth. 

His long and influential career in PNG politics leaves behind a complex and multifaced legacy.

Papua New Guinea's crop of pioneer politicians.
Papua New Guinea’s crop of pioneer politicians.

A nation is now in mourning as the devastating news of his passing is shared far and wide.

Tributes have begun pouring in on Social Media from across the country and internationally, with many Papua New Guineans expressing a profound sense of loss.

Fellow politician and East Sepik Governor, Allan Bird, in a Facebook post referred to Sir J as “the last of his kind. Men set apart by destiny to do things no one else can.”

“Along with his good friend and brother Sir Michael, Sir Pita and others who left, they gave birth to this country”

“A country whose ideals they fought for all their lives. In fact, Sir Julius was still fighting for what he believed in right up until he left us.”

In similar fashion, veteran PNG journalist, Scott Waide posted, “He lived and served well without fear” shortly after he posted, “Another knowledge keeper gone”.

So many others expressing their appreciation toward the founding father, commending his immense sacrifice, commitment and contribution towards shaping the foundation of an Independent Papua New Guinea.

His passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him. He takes with him his wealth of wisdom and invaluable perspectives.

But his legacy of service and dedication will remain in the history books of Papua New Guinea and inspire generations to come.

Prime Minister, James Marape, in a statement, reflected on Sir J’s legacy, describing him as one of the last great leaders from PNG’s Independence era.

“Sir Julius Chan was not just a leader, he was a statesman of great wisdom and resilience, a man who dedicated his life to the service of our country”.

“His significant role in shaping the trajectory of Papua New Guinea’s economy and governance, will never be forgotten”, James Marape, Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea.

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Sir Julius Chan Passes On

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Sir Julius Chan

The Chan Family has confirmed that PNG’s “Last Man Standing”, their father Sir Julius Chan has passed on at. He was 85.

In a statement released by 2pm today, the family announced that he passed away peacefully in his home Province, New Ireland.

“It is with profound sadness and sorrow we announce the passing of our esteemed father and PNG’s last man standing, Rt Hon Sir Julius Chan GCL GCMG KBE PC MP.

“Our father passed away peacefully this afternoon at 12:30pm at his beloved home at Manmantinut, Huris surrounded by family and friends.”

The family went on to acknowledge all those who have stood by him, and those who have shared his legacy throughout his political life from Pre-independence to the time of his passing.

“He was a political icon transcending generations and his legacy will remain forever in the pages of our history books and moreso in the hearts of so many. God bless and welcome our dear Julius into your loving arms.”

Sir J is survived by his wife Lady Stella Chan and children Vanessa, Byron, Mark, Toea and all his grandchildren.

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Marape acknowledges China’s partnership as China celebrates another New Year

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Prime Minister James Marape

As China celebrates another Chinese New Year, Prime Minister James Marape acknowledges the country’s partnership with PNG over the years.

Marape extended his warmest wishes to President Xi Jinping, the government, and the people of the People’s Republic of China on the occasion of Chinese New Year, which falls on January 29, 2025.

“This special occasion symbolizes wisdom, transformation, and renewal—values that resonate deeply as our two nations continue to strengthen our friendship and partnership,” Prime Minister Marape said.

He highlighted the shared milestones between Papua New Guinea and China as PNG prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary of independence on September 16, 2025.

“This is a time for us to reflect on the journey we have taken as a nation and the partnerships that have supported us along the way.

“The friendship between PNG and China has been a vital part of this journey, helping to drive development and create opportunities for our people,” he stated.

Formal diplomatic relations between Papua New Guinea and China were established in 1976, just a year after PNG gained independence.

“As we approach the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026, we celebrate the significant milestones achieved together.

“Under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, China has become one of PNG’s most important development partners,” said Prime Minister Marape.

He highlighted the signing of five Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in April 2024 as a pivotal step in strengthening cooperation.

These agreements focus on trade, infrastructure development, cultural exchanges, and capacity-building initiatives, showcasing the shared commitment of both nations to fostering sustainable growth and prosperity.

Marape commended China for its transformative contributions to PNG’s development.

He cited major infrastructure projects such as the Ramu 2 Hydro Project, which will deliver reliable and affordable energy to PNG, supporting industrial growth and improving the quality of life for thousands of Papua New Guineans.

He also highlighted the Pacific Marine Industrial Zone, a flagship initiative to boost PNG’s fisheries and export industries.

“These projects are more than just infrastructure—they are cornerstones of economic empowerment, helping us unlock our country’s potential and create sustainable livelihoods for our people,” he said.

In addition to infrastructure, China’s investments in education and human capital development were recognized.

“Through government-supported scholarships, many Papua New Guinean students are pursuing degrees in critical fields such as STEM, medicine, business, and other disciplines.

Marape acknowledged China’s decision in 2024 to relax biosecurity restrictions and allow agricultural imports from PNG.

“This was a landmark development for PNG’s agricultural sector, giving our farmers access to one of the largest consumer markets in the world,” he said.

With opportunities to export coffee, cocoa, and fresh produce to China, the Prime Minister urged PNG’s farmers to seize this moment.

“I encourage our agricultural sector to increase production and meet the high standards of the Chinese market.

“This partnership reflects China’s commitment to supporting regional trade and PNG’s ambition to become a major player in agricultural exports.”

The Prime Minister also took the opportunity to acknowledge the significant contributions of the Chinese community in PNG.

“For decades, the Chinese community has been an integral part of PNG’s social and economic fabric.

Their entrepreneurial spirit and dedication have played a crucial role in driving local economic growth and fostering cultural exchanges,” he said.

As PNG celebrates its golden jubilee, Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed the country’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with China.

“Our relationship with China is built on mutual respect, shared values, and a vision for sustainable development.

Together, we have built a partnership that transforms lives, creates opportunities, and paves the way for a brighter future for our peoples.”

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New Administration Office for Koiari RLLG

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White two storey building block

The recent inauguration of the Koiari Rural Local Level Government (RLLG) administration building, located along the 15 Mile Sogeri Road in the Hiri Koiari District of Central Province, Papua New Guinea, marks a significant milestone for the community.
 
During his address, the local MP, Keith Iduhu highlighted an important agreement signed by the former government in March 2022, granting Koiari landowners consideration for equity benefits concerning water and power resources.

He urged the current government to fulfill this commitment and establish a development forum in accordance with the Energy Act.

This forum would ensure that landowners, local-level government, district, and provincial authorities all share in the benefits, as water and power are crucial resources for the community, just as vital as oil and gas.
 
Additionally, Governor Rufina Peter called on the people of Central Province to maintain unity and protect their land from unnecessary sale.

Koiari MP, a middle aged man with a lei and bilum around his neck holding a mic up to his face. A bilum is a carryon item made of strings.
Hiri-Koiari MP, Keith Iduhu, speaking at the inauguration of the new RLLG building.

He emphasized the importance of standing together when facing community challenges and underscored that development does not come swiftly.

Both leaders acknowledged that while planning may be easy, the hard work and strategic effort required for effective development take time, particularly for projects like the new administration building, which represents hope for a brighter future in the region.
 
The new administration office for Koiari Rural Local Level Government (RLLG) is an important development for the community.

This establishment hopes to enhance local governance and improve the delivery of services to the remote community.
 
Ward members are essential in this process, as they represent the interests of their respective wards and will be instrumental in addressing local issues, facilitating communication between the community and the administration, and implementing development projects.

Mr Iduhu expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts of the contractor, stakeholders, and provincial leaders in bringing this project to fruition.

He emphasized that the establishment of this office has been a long-awaited goal, reflecting the dedication and hard work of those involved in the project.

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NGO Boss Appears in Court for Identity Theft

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Brown skinned man with a beard

The Campaign Manager for advocacy group Act Now! appeared at the Waigani Committal Court on Tuesday (January 21) for Identity Theft.

Eddie Tanago, 40, from Northern Province appeared for his first mention before Magistrate, Carthleen Sopa.

As is the initial process for the Committal Court, Mr Tanago was read out his charges and rights.

According to police, on the 27th of December 2024, Tanago had “intentionally and without lawful excuse used an electric system, a Facebook account, namely Act Now! to use the identification of another person, Mr John Mosoro, the Managing Director for the PNG Forest Authority without his authorization.”

This action contravened section 15, subparagraph (b) of the PNG Cybercrime Act 2016.

A statement released by the PNG Forest Authority on the 12th of December 2024, following Tanago’s arrest on the 11th of December 2024, said the arrest is for posting defamatory remarks on the 27th of November 2024, against the PNG Forest Authority Managing Director, John Mosoro.

The Statement said, Tanago was “questioned on his actions in sharing a certain advertisement on social media.”

The advert carried a “face photo” (mugshot) of the PNG Forest Authority boss.

The advert was initially created by FM100 Talk Back Show to promote the appearance of the PNG Forest Authority Team.

Tanago and his organization, Act Now, reused the advertisement on their Facebook page to promote a blog on their website criticizing the PNG Forest Authority’s content on the show.

An act that has now landed the organization in court for using Mosoro’s picture without his consent.

Lawyer representing Tanago however pointed out to the court that the police files he obtained has the charges against Section 21, subsection 2 of the Cybercrime Act which is for Defamatory Publications.

Magistrate Sopa, however clarified that what she read out was the police files that were handed to her.

She proceeded with the proceedings under Identity Theft and adjourned the matter to the 25th of February for the next mention.

Section 15 of the Cybercrime Act is titled “Identity Theft”.

The charge is for “a person who intentionally and without lawful excuse or justification, or in excess of a lawful excuse or justification, uses an electronic system or device to either a) to access, (b) to manipulate, (c) to posses, (d) to use, or (e) to transfer a means of identification of another person without authorization of that other person.”

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