Addressing suggestions that his administration had directed the commission's affairs, Mr Marape said both former and current ICAC leaders were free to confirm that he had never instructed the commission on who to probe or how to carry out its duties.

The Prime Minister also pushed back against claims that Mr Eluh had been demoted or pushed aside, clarifying that he still holds a key leadership post within the commission as Acting Deputy Commissioner.

On why retired Judge Sawong was picked for the acting top job, Mr Marape explained that the law demands the ICAC Commissioner be someone qualified to sit as a judge, a requirement Sawong meets.

He reminded the public that the same Appointments Committee making these decisions includes Opposition Leader James Nomane, alongside Government-nominated members, meaning the process is not one-sided.

Recruitment for the substantive Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner posts, Mr Marape said, has already been opened to the public through advertisement, with candidates to be screened through a proper selection process before any names go before the committee.

To reassure Papua New Guineans further, the Prime Minister disclosed that Transparency International PNG has been brought in to monitor the entire recruitment exercise as an independent observer.

He called on politicians and members of the public to hold back from making claims that cannot be substantiated and to let the constitutional process take its course.

"The former substantive commissioner and deputy commissioners, as well as the present acting leadership, can confirm that I have never directed ICAC on whom to investigate, how to conduct its investigations or how to discharge its constitutional responsibilities," Mr Marape said.

"Transparency International is not part of the Government. It is an independent organisation known for advocating against corruption and promoting integrity.

"I want them involved throughout the process so Papua New Guineans can have confidence that the recruitment and appointment of ICAC's permanent leadership is conducted honestly, transparently and without improper political influence."

Headlines
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• ​PNG Reconnects with Japan as Air Niugini Resumes Direct Tokyo Flights
• PNG Cabinet reshuffle sees Daki removed from Commerce as SME funds probe continues
• PNG PM Marape commits K1.1 billion to boost West Sepik road network
• ​PNG PM Calls For Pacific To Remain 'Ocean Of Peace' Amid Chinese Missile Test

Air Niugini operated the inaugural service using its Boeing 767-300ER aircraft, while future services will also utilise the Boeing 737-800 fleet to provide greater flexibility for travellers.

Passengers on the first flight were treated to complimentary meals, beverages, inflight entertainment and generous baggage allowances. The airline also introduced a refreshed onboard menu featuring Papua New Guinean ingredients prepared with Japanese-inspired flavours to celebrate the renewed connection.

Vice Minister Raphael Tonpi said the return of direct flights represented more than the reopening of an international route.

He said the service reflected the strong relationship between Papua New Guinea and Japan while creating fresh opportunities in tourism, trade, education, investment and business.

Mr Tonpi also said exporters in PNG would benefit from quicker access to Japan, creating greater opportunities for products including coffee, vanilla, seafood and fresh produce.

Air Niugini Board Chairman Karl Yalo said the airline's latest international service reflected its ongoing transformation and commitment to reconnecting Papua New Guinea with key overseas markets.

He said the company's investment in new aircraft was preparing the national airline for future growth, with Boeing aircraft continuing to serve long-haul routes while the Airbus A220 fleet strengthened domestic and regional operations.

Japanese Ambassador Hisanobu Mochizuki welcomed the restoration of direct services, describing it as another step forward in strengthening cooperation between the two countries.

He said Papua New Guinea's agricultural products and seafood enjoyed an excellent reputation in Japan and believed improved air access would encourage stronger trade and investment while attracting more Japanese visitors to PNG.

Governor Powes Parkop said the restored route would strengthen Papua New Guinea's international connections and support tourism, commerce and cultural exchanges.

Air Niugini Chief Executive Officer Alan Milne said the airline was pleased to welcome passengers on the first flight and was committed to rebuilding the Japan market.

The non-stop journey takes about six hours, giving Papua New Guineans faster access to Japan while allowing Japanese visitors to connect through Port Moresby to destinations across Papua New Guinea, Australia and the Pacific.

Air Niugini said the resumed service forms part of its long-term plan to expand international operations and improve global connectivity for Papua New Guinea.

"Today's inaugural flight signifies the strengthening of the long-standing friendship between Papua New Guinea and Japan and opens a new chapter in our economic, tourism and people-to-people relationship. It demonstrates our confidence in the future of that partnership while creating new opportunities for business, education, tourism and investment," Mr Tonpi said.

"Today is a proud day for Air Niugini. This is more than the return of a route. It represents our determination to reconnect Papua New Guinea with key international markets while supporting our country's economic growth and development," Mr Yalo said.

"The resumption of our Tokyo service is another important step in Air Niugini's transformation and international growth. It strengthens Port Moresby's position as a gateway between Japan, Australia and the Pacific," Mr Milne said.

Headlines
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• PNG Cabinet reshuffle sees Daki removed from Commerce as SME funds probe continues
• PNG PM Marape commits K1.1 billion to boost West Sepik road network
• ​PNG PM Calls For Pacific To Remain 'Ocean Of Peace' Amid Chinese Missile Test
• PNG joins world in congratulating US on 250 years of nationhood

An investigation into the alleged misuse of K200 million in Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) funding has coincided with a Cabinet reshuffle that saw Commerce and Industry Minister Win Bakri Daki removed from the portfolio while inquiries continue.
Prime Minister James Marape announced the changes on Monday during a swearing-in ceremony at Government House in Port Moresby, where six ministers took the oath of office.
Wake Goi, who previously served as Minister for Civil Aviation, has been appointed the new Minister for Commerce and Industry, replacing Mr Daki. Former Opposition Leader Douglas Tomuriesa takes over the Civil Aviation portfolio.

The reshuffle also saw Moresby North East MP John Kaupa appointed Minister for Environment, Conservation and Climate Change, replacing Lufa MP Simo Kilepa.
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In another change, Bogia MP Robert Naguri was sworn in as Minister for Information and Communication Technology, replacing Timothy Masiu, while Okapa MP Saki Soloma takes over the Labour portfolio from Kessy Sawang.
Francis Kikin Siune has been appointed Minister for Education, replacing Lucas Dekena, and Delta Fly MP Agena Gamai becomes the new Minister for Livestock, taking over from Western MP Sekie Agisa.

Health Minister Elias Kapavore has been reassigned to Defence, with Dr Billy Joseph appointed Minister for Health. Dr Joseph will also retain responsibility for the National Disaster portfolio.

William Bando has been moved from the Coffee portfolio to Immigration, while Miki Kaeok assumes responsibility for Coffee in addition to his existing Transport portfolio.

Following the swearing-in ceremony, Mr Marape announced he would personally oversee the Correctional Service, Sports and National Volunteer Service ministries.

The Prime Minister said the reshuffle was aimed at strengthening his government's performance and positioning it ahead of the 2027 National General Election.
Meanwhile, Mr Marape has defended the government's decision to restructure oversight of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), saying the reforms are intended to improve efficiency and strengthen service delivery ahead of the 2027 polls.

Speaking in Parliament during question time yesterday, the Prime Minister responded to concerns raised by Opposition Leader James Nomane, who questioned the rationale behind redistributing oversight of key state entities following the Cabinet reshuffle.

Mr Nomane congratulated the newly appointed ministers but sought an explanation for the changes, particularly the decision to place PNG Power and several commodity boards under different ministers. He argued that dividing responsibility could create overlapping authority and weaken accountability.
In response, Mr Marape said the reforms followed a four-year review of government operations and were designed to streamline the management of State-Owned Enterprises.
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He said the previous arrangement placed an excessive workload on the Minister responsible for State-Owned Enterprises, who oversaw more than 15 entities through Kumul Consolidated Holdings (KCH), resulting in delays and unnecessary administrative processes.

The Prime Minister cited PNG Power as an example of an enterprise requiring more direct ministerial attention, saying the utility could not continue waiting behind numerous other agencies before key decisions were made.
Under the new structure, KCH will continue to own and manage the state's commercial assets, while individual ministers will assume policy oversight of enterprises allocated to their respective portfolios.

Mr Marape said the changes would reduce bureaucracy, improve accountability and speed up decision-making without altering KCH's role as the state's investment holding company.
He said the reforms form part of the government's broader strategy to improve public service delivery before Papua New Guineans go to the polls in 2027.

Headlines

• PNG PM Marape commits K1.1 billion to boost West Sepik road network
• ​PNG PM Calls For Pacific To Remain 'Ocean Of Peace' Amid Chinese Missile Test
• PNG joins world in congratulating US on 250 years of nationhood
• RPNGC Awareness Team Tours West Sepik in Search of Next Generation of Officers

West Sepik has received a major infrastructure boost with the launch of road projects valued at more than K1.1 billion as the National Government pushes ahead with the Connect PNG Program.
Prime Minister James Marape and Works and Highways Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr led the official launch in Vanimo, where provincial leaders, the province's four MPs and local residents gathered to witness the start of the projects.

The largest investment is the K726 million sealing of the Vanimo-Green River Road, while another K374 million has been allocated to upgrade the Sepik Highway from Warasikau to Lumi-Karaitem.
Speaking during the event, Prime Minister Marape said the Government would continue investing in infrastructure that supports rural communities and creates better opportunities for people living outside major towns and cities.
He said improved roads would strengthen links between villages, government services and business centres, helping communities participate more fully in the country's economy.
The Prime Minister later opened new classroom buildings at Vanimo Primary School.
The facilities comprise a four-in-one double classroom and one single classroom funded by the Department of Works and Highways together with the Ok Tedi Tax Credit Scheme.
"This government focused on empowering rural Papua New Guinea. This is where 85 per cent of Papua New Guineans are," Prime Minister Marape said.
"The construction for the Sepik Highway between Warasikau and Lumi is a major step forward for inland community. This road is not just a district road, it is a development corridor," Mr Tsiamalili Jr said.

Headlines
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• ​PNG PM Calls For Pacific To Remain 'Ocean Of Peace' Amid Chinese Missile Test
• PNG joins world in congratulating US on 250 years of nationhood
• RPNGC Awareness Team Tours West Sepik in Search of Next Generation of Officers
• PNG appoints Dr Nicole Haley as Electoral Commissioner

Marape acknowledged that PNG recognises the sovereign right of nations to act within the bounds of international law, though he insisted the Pacific exists to support life rather than serve as a rehearsal space for conflict.

"Our Pacific is an Ocean of Peace," he said, tying the phrase to the shared outlook long held by leaders of the Pacific Islands Forum through their Blue Pacific Continent vision.

Having held the office of Prime Minister without interruption since 2019, Marape noted that the burden of past wars, nuclear testing, and foreign military operations still weighs on Pacific nations today.

"Our region has lived through war, nuclear testing and military activities imposed upon us by larger powers. We do not want history repeated," he said.

He urged that Pacific waters be kept completely clear of harmful weapons trials and arsenal testing, whether such activity comes from the air, the sea, or land.

Beyond the security concerns, the Prime Minister flagged the ocean's importance as a major absorber of global carbon emissions and as home to marine biodiversity that supports fishing industries feeding populations worldwide.

Marape's public statement arrives as Port Moresby carefully manages its foreign relations, with this year marking half a century of diplomatic ties between PNG and China since they were established in 1976.

He reaffirmed that PNG remains firm in its support for the One China Policy, framing the bilateral relationship as authentic and grounded in mutual respect — though he was firm about drawing a line on military escalation in the region's waters.

"It is in that same spirit of friendship that I respectfully appeal to our Chinese friends that this be the last such missile test conducted in Pacific waters," Marape said.

He stressed the message was not meant for Beijing exclusively, saying it holds equally for any nation possessing advanced military strength.

"It applies equally to the United States, France, Japan, the United Kingdom and every nation with military capability," Marape said. "If you respect the Pacific and its people, then please respect our ocean. We ask all major powers to refrain from using Pacific waters for missile testing, military weapons trials or any activity that contributes to conflict or militarisation."

Marape said his government would communicate these concerns directly to Chinese leadership via diplomatic channels, continuing to push the "Ocean of Peace" stance with all of PNG's international partners.

Headlines

• PNG joins world in congratulating US on 250 years of nationhood
• RPNGC Awareness Team Tours West Sepik in Search of Next Generation of Officers
• PNG appoints Dr Nicole Haley as Electoral Commissioner
• PNG Seeks K70 Million to Step Up El Niño Preparedness

He noted that America’s long-standing status as a global democratic leader has left a lasting imprint on international peace efforts, security cooperation and economic advancement.
“For 250 years, the United States has stood as one of the world’s leading democracies, making significant contributions to global peace, security, innovation and economic development. Its remarkable journey continues to inspire nations, including Papua New Guinea, as we pursue our own aspirations for growth and prosperity,” he said.
Turning to bilateral ties, the Prime Minister said Papua New Guinea holds its relationship with the United States in high regard, describing it as one built upon shared democratic principles, mutual respect and a joint commitment to regional peace and prosperity.
He noted that the friendship between the two nations stretches back to World War II, a period during which Papua New Guineans and Americans fought alongside one another in what remains one of history’s defining chapters.
“Today, that relationship continues to grow through cooperation in defence, trade and investment, health, education, energy, disaster response and people-to-people exchanges,” PM Marape said.

Headlines
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• RPNGC Awareness Team Tours West Sepik in Search of Next Generation of Officers
• PNG appoints Dr Nicole Haley as Electoral Commissioner
• PNG Seeks K70 Million to Step Up El Niño Preparedness
• PNG Benefits as Chinese Firms Expand Investments Across Key Industries

Young men and women across West Sepik Province are being given a rare opportunity to apply for the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary in person, as a recruitment awareness team tours rural districts to walk applicants through the online lodgement system step by step.
To date, the initiative has recorded 13 successful applicants from Lumi District and 17 from Nuku District, all of whom met the baseline entry requirements and lodged their applications online with the help of the visiting team.

The team is presently stationed at Don Bosco Secondary School in Vanimo and is expected to relocate to Wewak tomorrow, with Aitape and Telefomin next on the schedule as the tour continues into next week.
Speaking on behalf of the recruitment team, Sergeant Pati Namora said the constabulary is aiming to fill nearly 700 positions nationwide this year, drawing recruits from both urban and rural backgrounds.
He said rural and isolated communities are being deliberately prioritised, noting that a large number of young people who would otherwise qualify for the force are being left behind purely because they lack knowledge of how the online application system operates.
Eligibility requirements state that applicants must be between 20 and 30 years old, hold a Grade 12 certificate with a minimum C grade in English and Mathematics, and stand between 160 and 175 centimetres in height.
On documentation, applicants must provide a national identification (NID) card, or alternatively, an NID registration number together with a birth certificate and a second valid form of identification.
Interested youths have been urged to prepare all necessary documents ahead of the team's arrival in their district.
"We are deliberately targeting rural and isolated communities because many eligible candidates miss out simply due to a lack of awareness regarding the online application system," Sgt Namora said.

Papua New Guinea has appointed respected election researcher Dr Nicole Haley as the country's new Electoral Commissioner, ending weeks of public speculation over who would take charge of one of the nation's most important constitutional offices ahead of the 2027 National General Election.

Prime Minister James Marape announced the appointment yesterday, saying Dr Haley will serve a four-year term and lead the Papua New Guinea Electoral Commission as preparations intensify for the 2027 polls. He said the appointment brings extensive experience and independent expertise at a crucial time for the country's electoral system.

Mr Marape said Dr Haley's longstanding work on Papua New Guinea's electoral processes made her well suited to guide the commission through the challenges of preparing for the next national election.

Dr Haley, an Australian national, is a Professor of Anthropology and Pacific Politics at the Australian National University and has spent more than three decades researching Papua New Guinea's politics and governance. Her work has focused on election administration, electoral systems, political participation, women's representation and electoral integrity.

She has contributed to major election observation reports and studies, including the 2007 and 2017 National General Elections, and has undertaken extensive research into the operational and administrative challenges surrounding elections across Papua New Guinea.

The Prime Minister said her understanding of the country's electoral history and the practical issues affecting elections would strengthen preparations for the 2027 National General Election.

He said the appointment followed a bipartisan and transparent recruitment process involving the Prime Minister, Opposition Leader James Nomane, the Chairman of the Public Service Commission and the Chairman of the Permanent Parliamentary Committee on National Elections.

According to Mr Marape, the committee assessed all applications received for the position before shortlisting leading candidates and conducting comprehensive interviews to identify the most suitable person to lead the Electoral Commission.

He said committee members were satisfied that Dr Haley demonstrated practical strategies to strengthen the independence of the Electoral Commission and improve public confidence in the electoral process.

Mr Marape also acknowledged Acting Electoral Commissioner Margaret Vagi for her service during the recruitment process and thanked her for assisting with the transition.

He called on Electoral Commission officers across the country to work closely with Dr Haley and begin preparations for the 2027 National General Election without delay.

"Dr. Haley has studied our elections for many years. She understands both the strengths and weaknesses of our electoral system, including the challenges that have affected the integrity of elections over time. She has written and published extensively on PNG elections and understands the complexities of the electoral process, from the common roll, polling, counting, and declaration of results to election security, administration, and voter participation. Her expertise will be a significant asset as we work to strengthen our electoral processes and ensure credible, transparent, and inclusive elections in 2027," Mr Marape said.

"We undertook an extensive assessment of each shortlisted candidate, including detailed discussions on how they would establish an impartial Electoral Commission for the 2027 National General Election and prepare the country to deliver a free, fair, and credible election despite the current challenges.

"The Committee, including the Opposition Leader, was satisfied that Dr. Nicole Haley demonstrated clear, practical, and achievable strategies for delivering a transparent and inclusive election in which all Papua New Guineans can participate with confidence."

"The appointment process is complete. The work must now begin. I will engage with Dr Haley and EC management in the near future to ensure that the Government, Parliament, public service, security agencies, provinces and districts all play their part in delivering an election that Papua New Guineans can trust."

"This is not about Government or Opposition. It is about Papua New Guinea, our Constitution and the future of our Democracy."

Headlines

• PNG Seeks K70 Million to Step Up El Niño Preparedness
• PNG Benefits as Chinese Firms Expand Investments Across Key Industries
• ​'Surrender or Be Arrested': PNG's Enga Commander Warns Armed Offenders
• PNG Niusky Board Commits to Safer Skies Through Network Modernisation
  

Papua New Guinea is seeking K70 million from the National Executive Council to strengthen its response to the El Niño weather event, as authorities race to prepare for worsening dry conditions expected later this year. The funding proposal comes amid growing concern that critical government agencies lack the resources needed to monitor and respond effectively.
With the climate pattern already affecting parts of PNG, government departments responsible for weather forecasting and disaster preparedness have joined forces to coordinate response measures. Officials say immediate financial support is essential to ensure monitoring, assessments and recovery planning continue in the months ahead.

National Weather Service Director Jimmy Gomoga told media that his agency alone requires an additional K5 million to carry out its responsibilities during the El Niño period.He said preparations should have been well underway after El Niño was declared several years ago, but repeated appeals for funding and early intervention were not acted upon.
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The weather pattern began taking hold in April, raising fresh uncertainty over the extent of its impact across the country in the coming months.
Mr Gomoga said the additional allocation would enable the National Weather Service to continue climate monitoring, conduct assessments and support recovery activities where necessary.
Limited funding has continued to hamper the agency's operations, particularly as demand for weather information increases during the current conditions.
The National Weather Service has also experienced a reduction in its annual budget, dropping from K5.4 million last year to K3.9 million this year.
With about four months remaining before El Niño is expected to reach its peak, officials say progress on preparedness measures will largely depend on approval of the K70 million funding submission.
"Funding will be used for monitoring, assessments and recovery efforts."

Headlines

• PNG Benefits as Chinese Firms Expand Investments Across Key Industries
• ​'Surrender or Be Arrested': PNG's Enga Commander Warns Armed Offenders
• PNG Niusky Board Commits to Safer Skies Through Network Modernisation
• PNG on high alert as El Niño declaration triggers drought response

More than 10,000 Papua New Guineans have secured direct employment through Chinese-owned businesses operating in PNG, as investment from China continues to spread across vital sectors of the economy, Chinese Ambassador Yang Xiaoguang says.

He said the growing level of Chinese business activity reflected stronger economic ties between the two countries, with companies investing in projects ranging from energy and infrastructure to agriculture, telecommunications and mining.

Yang said Chinese investors had played a role in delivering several major developments, including the Edevu hydropower project, the Napa Napa solar power project and the Noble Centre.

He said the expanding number of Chinese companies operating in Papua New Guinea had also created many additional jobs through supporting industries beyond the workforce directly employed by the businesses.

The ambassador said Chinese enterprises continued to uphold legal and ethical business standards while supporting economic growth and community development throughout the country.

Yang also described the China-PNG Business Roundtable in Guangdong as productive, with more than 250 companies from both nations taking part. The meeting followed the signing of an enhanced economic partnership framework agreement between China's Commerce Minister Wang Wentao and PNG International Trade and Investment Minister Richard Maru.

He said trade between the two countries had remained steady at about US$4 billion annually, equivalent to around K17.6 billion, with Papua New Guinea continuing to enjoy a favourable trade balance. Yang added that China was preparing to welcome Prime Minister James Marape and his delegation during the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting later this year.

"Chinese businesses have invested in and constructed projects such as the Edevu hydropower and the Napa Napa solar power project."

"These companies have directly employed more than 10,000 PNG staff and the number of indirect jobs created are much more."

"China is ready to welcome Prime Minister James Marape and his delegation when they attend the APEC economic leaders' meeting in November."

Headlines

• PNG on high alert as El Niño declaration triggers drought response
• ​Don Polye Walks Free After Court Dismisses Corruption Case
• Kumul Haus to Reshape PNG Government Business Hub in Port Moresby
• PNG Police Refuse Bail for 20 CS Officers After Armed Standoff