PNG Opposition Leader Slams Vagrancy Act as Anti-Poor Law

1/4/2026

Papua New Guinea Opposition Leader James Nomane has strongly criticised the newly passed Vagrancy Act, describing it as a law that unfairly targets poor citizens across PNG.

Speaking after Parliament overwhelmingly endorsed the Bill, Nomane — who cast the only vote against it — said the legislation fails to address the real drivers of crime and hardship in the country.

He argued that the Government had chosen a short-term approach instead of tackling deeper national challenges affecting communities.

“The Vagrancy Act is a band-aid solution for surface-level symptoms,” Nomane said.

PNG Constabulary Confirms Start Date for New Police Recruits

29/3/2026

PNG Constabulary Confirms Start Date for New Police Recruits

Successful applicants for the 2025 police recruitment drive in PNG have been formally notified, with the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary confirming that training will commence in April next year.

The announcement covers candidates drawn from key regions including the Highlands, New Guinea Islands, NCD, Central and Gulf, all of whom have been selected to undergo the Regular Recruit Training Program.

PNG to introduce six new seats in 2027 General Election

29/3/2026

Six new electorates have been approved in Papua New Guinea and will come into effect during the 2027 General Election, allowing thousands of voters to take part under newly defined boundaries.

Electoral Boundaries Commission chairperson and Acting Electoral Commissioner Margaret Vagi announced that the expansion will bring the total number of electorates in PNG to 124, up from the current 118.

At present, the country comprises 96 open seats and 22 provincial electorates, inclusive of Bougainville and the National Capital District, but the new additions are expected to reshape representation in several regions.

PNG Commuters Stranded: Police Sound Alarm on PMVs Cutting Routes Short

20/3/2026

Port Moresby City residents have been urged by Port Moresby Police to remain alert and report any Public Motor Vehicles (PMVs) that fail to complete their designated routes. The call follows ongoing concerns about buses leaving passengers stranded before reaching their intended destinations.
Police say there has been an increase in complaints from commuters who are being dropped off halfway or not transported to the end of their routes. This has caused inconvenience for many residents who rely on PMVs for their daily travel across the city.

PNG backs new vagrancy law as leaders push for safer cities

19/3/2026

An overwhelming vote in Papua New Guinea’s Parliament has paved the way for stricter controls on repeat offenders, with lawmakers endorsing the revised 2025 Vagrancy Act.

The bill, championed by Powes Parkop, passed 80 votes to one, signalling broad support for measures designed to curb crime in Port Moresby and beyond.

Under the new framework, the District and National Courts are empowered to classify persistent offenders as vagrants and issue orders sending them back to their home areas for a period determined by the courts.

PNG backs new vagrancy law as leaders push for safer cities /File Photo

PNG Engineers Break New Ground with Airbus A220 Certification

19/3/2026

Four Papua New Guinean engineers have made aviation history after securing Airbus A220 type ratings, becoming the first nationals endorsed on the modern aircraft.

Air Niugini confirmed the milestone, saying it reflects years of investment in training and the development of local technical expertise.

The certifications were granted by Civil Aviation Safety Authority of Papua New Guinea following a rigorous assessment process covering theory, practical training and competency evaluations.

PNG O’Neill Raises Concern Over Possible K12 Billion Papua LNG Concessions

19/3/2026

PNG O’Neill Raises Concern Over Possible K12 Billion Papua LNG Concessions

Papua New Guinea’s former prime minister Peter O'Neill has cautioned the government against granting massive concessions in the ongoing Papua LNG discussions, saying such a move would disadvantage the nation.

Speaking publicly, he questioned reports suggesting that as much as US$3 billion could be offered to project developers, warning that this would place an unnecessary burden on the country’s economy.

Alex Johnston Breaks NRL Try Record with Historic 213th

14/3/2026

Alex Johnston Breaks NRL Try Record with Historic 213th/NRL Photo

Papua New Guinea rugby league fans joined supporters across the world in celebrating a historic moment after South Sydney winger Alex Johnston broke the NRL’s all-time try-scoring record with his 213th career try on Friday night.

The milestone came during the Rabbitohs’ clash at Allianz Stadium when Johnston crossed the line in the 41st minute, surpassing a long-standing record that had remained untouched in the premiership for more than five decades.

PNG TSC Urges Retired Teachers to Vacate School Housing After Six Months

12/3/2026

Papua New Guinea’s Teaching Service Commission has clarified that retired teachers must leave school accommodation within six months after finishing their service.

Acting Chairman Mr. Maini Mike Ugaia said the Commission recognises the dedication of teachers who have served the country for many years but noted that school houses are reserved for those who are actively teaching.

He explained that these homes are owned by the schools and the Division of Education and are intended to support teachers who are currently posted in those institutions.

PNG Enga PPC Moves to Scrap Customary Compensation for Criminal Acts

1/3/2026

Papua New Guinea’s Enga Province has taken a firm step toward strengthening formal law enforcement, with newly appointed Provincial Police Commander Chief Superintendent Steve Harris announcing that customary compensation will no longer be accepted as a way of settling criminal offences.

Chief Superintendent Harris made the declaration during his official hand-over-take-over ceremony in Wabag Town, where senior officers of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, public servants and members of the community gathered to witness the leadership transition.

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PNG Opposition Leader Slams Vagrancy Act as Anti-Poor Law

PNG Constabulary Confirms Start Date for New Police Recruits

PNG to introduce six new seats in 2027 General Election

PNG Commuters Stranded: Police Sound Alarm on PMVs Cutting Routes Short

PNG backs new vagrancy law as leaders push for safer cities

PNG Engineers Break New Ground with Airbus A220 Certification

PNG O’Neill Raises Concern Over Possible K12 Billion Papua LNG Concessions

Alex Johnston Breaks NRL Try Record with Historic 213th

PNG TSC Urges Retired Teachers to Vacate School Housing After Six Months

PNG Enga PPC Moves to Scrap Customary Compensation for Criminal Acts

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