Mahlon WINSTON

The PNG Chiefs rugby league recruitment strategy has come under scrutiny from fans concerned about the age of the players being signed.Many of the newly recruited athletes are in their late 20s or approaching 30, prompting questions about the long-term planning and development of local talent.PNG Hausbung had the opportunity to ask the PNG Chiefs General Manager, Michael Chammas about the recruitment strategy and if it will bring success for the club, as most of the players recruited will be almost 30 or will be already 30 when they arrive at the club in 2028.In response, Mr. Chammas emphasized that the strategy is deliberate and aimed at fostering a culture of professionalism and learning for young Papua New Guinean players coming through the ranks or pathways.“We want to teach young Papua New Guineans coming through the system what it takes to be a professional athlete. The players we’ve recruited will serve as mentors and role models, sharing their experience and understanding of what it takes to win.”The recruited players boast an impressive track record, with a total of 15 premiership titles among them. Notable among them are Jerome Lui, with four premierships; Brian To’o and Maddie Lee, each with four; Joey Manu with two; and Alex Johnston with one.Additionally, head coach Willie Peters brings valuable experience, having led his previous team to a treble victory, and in the Super League last year and secured a premiership.Chammas said that the presence of seasoned players is a strategic move to challenge and uplift younger talent.“They understand what winning looks like, and they’re here to challenge the young guys to improve and educate them on what it takes to succeed,” he said.He said another aspect of the strategy is to address the challenges of relocating away from family and friends.“Players at this age are better equipped to handle that change. They are more mature and can better manage the transition of living away from loved ones, especially as they will be living together as a team.”Chammas added that the recruitment drive, which is set to intensify come November 1, also aims to make the club more attractive to emerging local talent.“When we tell young players, they can come and play alongside experienced stars like Jerome Lui, Alex Johnston, and Joey Manu, it becomes a more appealing opportunity for them to develop their careers,” he added.While some fans remain cautious about the age of the recruits, the PNG Chiefs maintain that this approach is part of a broader plan to build a strong, competitive team that balances experience with the development of local talent.

The PNG Chiefs today announced that BSP Financial Group Limited (BSP) is its official Principal Foundation Partner.The announcement today at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby city is a landmark partnership that marks the largest sponsorship in the history of the National Rugby League (NRL).The PNG Chiefs' Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ms. Lorna McPherson said that his partnership is unprecedented.“BSP has become the biggest jersey sponsor in the history of the NRL — not just for an expansion club or in the Pacific, but in the entire 118-year history of the league,” said McPherson.She emphasized that the significance of the partnership is beyond just mere branding.“When our jersey is revealed next month, it will carry more partnership value than any other NRL team — around $AU20 million on a single shirt. Our sponsorship already totals approximately $AU25 million for our first season, putting us at the top of the competition in commercial revenue even before we've played a game,” she said.She highlighted BSP’s commitment to Papua New Guinea’s development, is to build PNG and the Pacific, and this partnership reflects that.“It’s not just a logo on a jersey; it’s a statement that we back ourselves, our people, and our young men and women to compete globally. This deal isn’t just about sponsorship; it’s about creating pathways for our juniors, establishing training centers, and supporting women’s participation in sport,” said McPherson.McPherson also shared plans for future initiatives, including a training and accommodation center for 50 top young players.“Having BSP sponsor us enables us to build our own center of excellence, support our women’s teams, and create jobs for Papua New Guineans in Port Moresby. Every kina invested by BSP flows back into these programs. This is why it matters to every Papua New Guinean,” she explained.“When our team runs out with the name of our nation on its chest and the BSP logo proudly displayed, no one will ever question why Papua New Guinea belongs in the world of elite sport,” McPherson declared.BSP Board Chairman – Robert Bradshaw, underscored the importance of the partnership.“The PNG Chiefs bring us all together under one name, one jersey, and one flag. Supporting the Chiefs isn’t just about rugby; it’s about fostering national pride and inspiring our youth. When the team takes the field in Australia or Port Moresby, they carry the hopes of an entire nation,” he said.Bradshaw acknowledged the collaborative effort behind the partnership and whose vision that made it a reality.CEO of BSP – Mark Robinson, reiterated the significance of the alliance.“Our partnership with the PNG Chiefs is the largest in NRL history and reflects our ambition to support more than just a team. We will engage fans, support development programs, and work to improve financial literacy across PNG,” he said.Robinson noted that the long-term nature of the partnership will see BSP support the club from 2026 to 2030, with hopes of extending even further.“These builds on our existing sponsorship of PNG’s Rugby League World Cup match against Lebanon, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to PNG sports.”As the PNG Chiefs prepare for a historic debut in the NRL, the partnership with BSP signals a new era for Papua New Guinea’s sporting ambitions.In her concluding remarks, McPherson summed it all up and said, “This is more than sponsorship. It’s a commitment to our country’s future, our people, and our pride. Today, your bank has stood with you.”Meanwhile, the official jersey reveal is scheduled for October 22, straight after the unveiling of the new Logo, which will be prior to that on October 21.

The 53rd Hiri Moale Festival has commenced its celebrations starting with the First Judging event for the 13 Hanenamo contestants, which was held at Tutu Beach Retreat, Taurama.The registered contestants took the center stage in their beautiful and colorful traditional attires and proudly represented their villages.The contestants come from villages within the Motu and Koitabu villages of Gaire, Boera, Porabada, Elevala Lahara, Elevala Laurabada, Kouderika, Pari-Taurama, Korobosea, Kira Kira, Araira and Pari Taoata.Day 2, Wednesday 09 September will feature the Hiri Moale Float Parade that will start at the NCD City Hall and ends down at Era Kone (Ela Beach). WR Carpenters Group are the proud sponsors of 22 vehicles that will be used for the float parade around Port Moresby city from 10a to 1pm.Hiri Cultural Showcase on Thursday, Day 3 will feature cultural performances from the Hiri people and the Gulf people. The event will be hosted at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium from 10am in the morning to 5pm in the afternoon. Apart from cultural performances, live string band performances and other musical and cultural activities will be part of the celebrations.On Friday 11th September, Day 4 will see the second judging event for the thirteen Hanenamo contestants from 5pm to 9pm in the evening, held privately for the sponsors at Apec Haus.On Saturday 12th September, Day 5 will feature Vanagi-Asi Asi (Canoe Racing) from 10am till 5pm in the afternoon. The iconic Lagatoi that was used during the Hiri trade and the main attraction for the festival will make its arrival, sailing in from Manu Manu village, in the Central Province. Other extra events will be also happening during the racing dayThe final Day on Sunday 13th September, will be the main event, featuring more cultural and traditional performances from the Gulf and Motu-Koita people from 10 to 5pm, ending with the announcement and crowning of the 2026 Hiri Hanenamo Queen. The event will be held at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium.The Organizers from the Motu-Koita Assembly are inviting all residents of Port Moresby city to come out and be part of the celebrations, as the people of Gulf and Motu-Koita showcase their rich cultural heritage.

The 2026 Namea Cup has once again proved to be a vibrant celebration of rugby league and community spirit, attracting a record 50 teams from across Mekeo LLG, in Kairuku District, Central province this weekend.Held in the Aipeana Village, the tournament marked a historic milestone as it featured three divisions for the first time since its inception, reflecting the growing strength and enthusiasm for the sport in Kairuku District.This year’s competition included six teams in the women’s division, 16 teams in the Development Division (ages 16-18), and 10 teams in the Open Men’s division.As a lead-up event to the annual Independence celebrations, the tournament continues to serve as a vital platform for nurturing local talent and fostering community unity.The finals series was officially opened on Saturday by Peter Namea Isoaimo, Minister for Energy and Member for Kairuku.In his address to players, officials, and supporters, Minister Isoaimo emphasized the importance of sports as a vehicle for national development and youth empowerment.“There are a million opportunities in rugby league,” he stated passionately.“With the backing of the National Government, we are committed to creating pathways for our young talents. Sport keeps our youths away from illegal activities and illicit drug use. We need strong, healthy young people to take our country into the future.”Minister Isoaimo urged the players to stay dedicated and disciplined, emphasizing that their commitment and sacrifice in the game will pay off in the long run if they remain faithful to the sport.He also praised the tournament organizers and officials for their efforts in maintaining security and peace throughout the event, highlighting the importance of community-led initiatives in fostering unity.The tournament’s success was made possible through funding of K70,000 from the Community Law and Justice Sector under the Kairuku DDA DSIP program.Of this, K20,000 was allocated as prize money for the three divisions, with each division offering substantial incentives to winning teams.In the Women’s Division: K2,000 plus trophy for the winners, K1,000 for the runners-up, K500 for third place, K400 for fourth place, K100 for the Best and Fairest Female Player of the tournament.For the Development Division, from the K8,000 allocated for prize money the winner receives K5,000, Runner-up K2,000 while third and fourth placed teams receive K1,000 each. The Same break up applies to the Men’s Open Division.Inauaia Roosters were crowned 2026 Namea Cup Champions following their 23-15 win against St Pauls in the Cup final on Sunday 6th September, 2026. The Rooster walked away with the Namea Cup and the K5,000 prize money.Henry Maino, the tournament’s Chief Representative, confirmed the prize distribution and expressed pride in the tournament’s growth.“This year’s event has surpassed expectations, bringing together some of the best young talents in the province. The prize money and recognition are designed to motivate players and encourage continuous development.”The 2026 Namea Cup not only celebrates sporting achievement but also reinforces the importance of youth engagement, discipline, and community involvement.As the tournament concludes, local leaders remain committed to supporting initiatives that foster healthy lifestyles and create opportunities for future leaders.The tournament continues to be a shining example of how sport can unite communities, inspire youth, and contribute to national progress.

The Chairman of the Special Parliamentary Committee on Gender Equality and Women Empowerment (GEWE), NCD Governor Powes Parkop, highlighted the importance of monitoring policy outcomes to ensure development benefits reach communities.He emphasized that effective reporting on policy indicators is essential for sustainable growth.The Department for Community Development and Religion, on Monday, presented an update on the revised National Gender Policy. This revised policy is based on extensive consultations with stakeholders, partners, and government agencies, aiming to deliver tangible results in advancing gender equality across the country.The first priority area is Women’s Economic Empowerment, including Leadership. The policy seeks to boost women’s participation in the economy and leadership roles. It includes temporary special measures for women’s representation in national elections, mentorship programs for young women, and promotes male advocacy engagement through partnerships with churches and civil society.Economic initiatives focus on creating safe workplaces, improving access to finance and markets, and enacting legal reforms to secure women’s land and property rights. It also calls for amendments to employment laws to strengthen maternity and paternity leave and protect workers from harassment, especially women.The policy also aims to expand access to essential health services, including reproductive health, cancer screenings, family planning, and HIV/AIDS support, addressing Women’s health and well-being. It also highlights strengthening health data collection disaggregated by gender and disability to address disparities and promote inclusive healthcare.The third priority area focuses on Protection Against Gender-Based Violence. Whereby the policy aims to combat GBV across all sectors, from the public to the private, down to the sub-national levels and other levels. It also advocates for legal and workplace reforms, such as amendments to employment provisions and workplace harassment protections.These measures are designed to create safer environments for women and foster gender-sensitive policies across all sectors.The Department stated that, the development of this policy involved nation-wide consultations, with Development Partners, NGO’s and other stakeholders including, Bougainville stakeholders.The Department also made it clear that, the policy will be developed in a way that policies are aligned with the specific functions, from which policy plans are developed and implemented.They also clarify that the department is only providing the coordinating role as this is a government policy and it needs to be reviewed and aligned properly, but in no way, they are limiting the roles and responsibility of their partners and stakeholders.Furthermore, the Department said that they are only stating on what the policy consultations has informed to what the stakeholders want to see in terms of outcomes and in terms of strategy and implementation level that they are collaborating to develop the policy plans.  The revised policy aligns with international commitments to gender equality and human rights. It provides a clear roadmap toward a more equitable society, with specific indicators to track progress in the coming years.

The people of Ovoka village in the Mekeo Local Level Government (LLG) in the Kairuku District of Central province, were challenged to harness the potential of their vast land and venture into agricultural activities to foster community growth and self-sufficiency.During his official electorate visit on Saturday, Honorable Peter Namea Isoaimo, Minister for Energy and Member of Parliament for Kairuku, urged the villagers to adopt an open-minded and creative approach towards development.“If you want to see real change in your communities, you must work the land and explore agricultural opportunities,” he told the gathering.Minister Isoaimo emphasized that the government’s District Service Improvement Program (DSIP) funds are allocated specifically to support vital projects across districts and Local Level Governments (LLGs).“These funds are meant to reach you, the people, and help improve all sectors of development, be it infrastructure, health, education, or agriculture,” he explained.“As your mandated leader, I am doing my best to ensure that services are delivered effectively not only to Mekeo but to the entire Kairuku District.”The MP also addressed ongoing infrastructure projects, notably the upgrade of the road connecting Ovoka village to the Hiritano Highway.“This is a national government road,” he said, highlighting its significance.“It starts from the Hiritano Highway and travels inland, passing through Ovoka village all the way to Aipeana. Improving this road will open up more opportunities for trade and access to services for our people.”Isoaimo called on villagers to embrace change and be proactive in developing their land and resources.“Your land is your future. With effort and innovation, you can turn your land into productive farmland, creating jobs and improving the livelihoods of your families and community,” stated Isoaimo.The visit underscored the government’s commitment to rural development and the importance of community participation in nation-building.The villagers of Ovoka were reminded that progress begins with collective effort and a willingness to explore new avenues for growth.

Kairuku District has drawn a firm line on the Papua LNG Project, demanding a bigger and fairer share of project benefits and warning that the district will not again be sidelined in a major resource development taking place within its traditional territory.Energy Minister and Kairuku MP Peter Namea Isoaimo made the position clear at the Papua LNG Development Forum in Port Moresby on Friday (04 September 2026), presenting the District’s Proposed Benefit-Sharing Framework to the National Petroleum Authority, State representatives and project facilitators.Mr. Isoaimo said Kairuku’s demands were based on its actual geographical, social, and economic footprint in the project, particularly its involvement in the offshore midstream pipeline corridor.He said Kairuku had been disadvantaged during the earlier PNG LNG Project when it was part of the former Kairuku-Hiri District, claiming the district received no meaningful recognition in the project’s benefit matrix despite its geographical and traditional interests.“We will never again allow ourselves to be written off, left out, or buried under the administrative shadow of another district,” Mr. Isoaimo told the forum.Under its proposed framework, Kairuku wants Central Province to receive 40 per cent of the provincial benefit allocation, compared with the State’s initial proposal of 38 per cent, with the remaining 60 per cent allocated to Gulf Province.At the Central provincial level, Kairuku is proposing a revised split of 45 per cent for the Central Provincial Government, 30 per cent for District Development Authorities, and 25 per cent for Rural Local Level Governments.Mr. Isoaimo said the adjustment was intended to ensure a more equitable distribution of benefits and recognize the statutory responsibilities of DDAs in delivering services and infrastructure across their districts.Kairuku is also proposing a 70:30 split between Hiri Koiari and Kairuku, giving Kairuku a 30 per cent share across the relevant district and LLG benefit allocations.The district’s technical assessment puts its midstream footprint at 20 kilometres of offshore pipeline, representing about 26 per cent of the total midstream pipeline length. It estimates Kairuku’s apportioned capital expenditure at K2.86 billion, or 26.2 per cent of total midstream Capex.The assessment identifies three affected villages, 22 recognized clans and about 8,084 residents, while also highlighting a substantial marine project footprint.For landowners along the midstream pipeline, Kairuku has presented five possible benefit-sharing formulas based on factors including pipeline length, population, clan numbers, capital expenditure and spatial footprint. The proposed Kairuku landowner share ranges from 19 to 31 per cent, depending on the methodology applied.Mr. Isoaimo said the figures were the result of 60 days of technical work involving engineering data, clan census information, and geographic mapping.“Kairuku is not asking for special treatment, nor are we asking for charity,” he said, insisting the district was seeking what it regarded as its fair and legally earned share of the Papua LNG Project.Kairuku is expected to formally submit its detailed counterproposal to the National Petroleum Authority and facilitators as the Papua LNG, benefit-sharing negotiations continue.

Papua New Guinea’s national airline, Air Niugini, has reaffirmed its commitment to celebrating the country’s rich cultural heritage by coming on board as a sponsor of this year’s Hiri Moale Festival.Announcing the recent partnership, the airline’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Alan Milne emphasized the importance of supporting cultural initiatives that promote unity and pride among Papua New Guineans.“I am truly proud to continue our support of the Hiri Moale Festival and, most importantly, the Hiri Hanenamo quest.”“We have been involved for several years now, and it is our privilege and pleasure to continue that support.”As part of its sponsorship, Air Niugini will sponsor the 2026 Hiri Hanenamo winners on a memorable holiday cruise to three Pacific Island nations including Fiji, Vanuatu, and the Solomon Islands.The newly crowned Hanenamo Queen will travel to Fiji, while the first runner-up will visit Vanuatu, and the second runner-up will journey to the Solomon Islands.Mr. Milne emphasized that this initiative transcends sponsorship, highlighting the airline’s role in supporting cultural preservation.“This is much more about partnership and sponsorship,” Milne stated. “We at Air Niugini believe we have a responsibility to support initiatives that celebrate and preserve our nation’s diverse cultural heritage.”“Our support is also a recognition and acknowledgment of the Motu-Koita people as the traditional custodians of the land where we operate.”“We are privileged to operate from this land and to be part of this community,” he added. “Through our continued partnership with the Hiri Moale Festival and the Hiri Hanenamo quest, Air Niugini is proud to stand alongside the Motu-Koita community in celebrating culture, empowering our people, and preserving our heritage.”Meanwhile, Motu-Koita Chairman and Deputy NCD Governor Mr. Russell Simon Wavik, expressed his gratitude for Air Niugini’s support, emphasizing the importance of the festival as a celebration of identity and unity.“On behalf of the Motu-Koita Assembly and the people of Motu-Koitabu, I sincerely thank Air Niugini for their valued support towards the Hiri Moale Festival.”“This festival is more than a celebration; it is a platform to promote cultural pride, unity, and participation among our youth. Your partnership is vital in helping us achieve these goals.”Mr. Wavik highlighted that the festival also aims to educate and reconnect the community with its history, particularly through the re-enactment of the Hiri Trade voyage, an ancient maritime trade route established by their ancestors.This year’s Hiri Hanenamo contest has also introduced new measures to ensure safety and respect for the contestants, who are selected based on strict criteria including completing formal education up to Grade 12 or higher.Thirteen young women would participate in the quest, with modifications made to the dress code to ensure their protection amid modern safety concerns and technological advancements.“For safety reasons and to discourage discrimination, we have decided that contestants will wear clothing covering from the waist down,” Wavik explained.“It is important that we respect and protect our young women while celebrating their role in our culture.”In closing, Mr. Wavik extended heartfelt gratitude to the leadership of Air Niugini and the broader community, expressing hope for continued partnership.“May God bless your operations, your partnership, and our mutual efforts to promote our culture and heritage.”“Together, we can ensure that the spirit of the Hiri Moale Festival endures for generations to come.”The Hiri Moale Festival continues to serve as a vital cultural showcase, with corporate support including Air Niugini who continues to play an essential role in safeguarding and celebrating Papua New Guinea’s unique traditions.The 2026 Hiri Moale Festival will run from September 8th-13th in Port Moresby, with Ela Beach serving as the main event hub for the week’s festivities.

In a significant boost to this year’s Hiri Moale Festival, WR Carpenters Group announced its role as the official gold sponsor, reaffirming its commitment to supporting Papua New Guinea’s rich cultural heritage.The announcement was made during a ceremony held on Thursday, September 03rd, at the Boroko Motors Showroom, highlighting the importance of community, tradition, and corporate partnership in preserving the nation’s identity.Mr. Boe Dairi, General Manager of WR Carpenters Group, expressed pride in their association with the festival, emphasizing the cultural significance of the event.“The Hiri Moale Festival is more than just an annual celebration. It is a powerful expression of our culture, heritage, identity, and traditions.”“It provides an important opportunity for showcasing the rich cultural history of Papua New Guinea, particularly the traditions of the movement people.”The group’s sponsorship will include logistical support such as transportation assistance including trucks and light vehicles, to facilitate the movement and activities associated with the festival.“As a group of companies, we are proud to support an event that brings our communities together and provides an opportunity for our culture to be celebrated, preserved, and shared with future generations.”This support aligns with WR Carpenters Group’s broader commitment to community development and cultural preservation, reinforcing its role as a responsible corporate citizen in Papua New Guinea.Echoing these sentiments, Mr. Russell Simon Wavik, Chairman of the Motu-Koita Assembly and Deputy NCD Governor, who acknowledged the vital role of corporate support in making the festival a success.“We came here purposely seeking support from business houses to help us make this event possible.”“It is my great pleasure on behalf of the Motu-Koita Assembly to sincerely acknowledge and thank Bronco Motors for their generous support towards the Hiri Moale Festival.”He expressed gratitude for the substantial contribution of 22 vehicles from Boroko Motors, which include 19 vehicles for the road and motorcade, two buses for the Hiri-Hanenamo celebrations, and one vehicle for logistics.“This is a substantial contribution and will greatly assist us in ensuring that the festival is conducted in a safe, organized, and dignified manner.”He also highlighted the importance of partnerships such as these, stating that support from Boroko Motors and WR Carpenters Group demonstrates a sense of corporate citizenship and a genuine commitment to working alongside our communities.Concluding his remarks, Wavik extended sincere gratitude to the management and staff of both companies, emphasizing the role of such partnerships in strengthening cultural identity and community cohesion.The Hiri Moale Festival continues to be a vital platform for celebrating and preserving the culture of the Motu-Koita people, with corporate support playing an increasingly important role in ensuring its success and safety.This year’s celebrations will take place from September 8th to 13th, 2026, centered at Ela Beach (Era Kone) in Port Moresby.

The PNG Chiefs are set to mark a significant milestone in the club’s history with the unveiling of its official logo at a special ceremony in Port Moresby on October 21.This event heralds the next chapter for the club as it prepares to enter the NRL in 2028.Built on the pillars of pride, ambition, and a deep connection to Papua New Guinea’s people, culture, and passion for rugby league, the new logo will serve as a unifying symbol for the nation.It aims to foster a strong identity for the club both on and off the field as it continues to establish itself as a representative of PNG.Designed in consultation with local PNG design experts, the logo reflects the spirit of the PNG Chiefs and embodies the values the club stands for. It will become the emblem that carries the club into its bright future.PNG Chiefs Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Lorna McPherson, emphasized the significance of the upcoming event, describing it as a watershed moment for the club and a proud day for rugby league in Papua New Guinea. “For a club that has had many special moments to date and will have many more to come in the future, this will be a remarkable occasion of celebration – not only for the PNG Chiefs but for Papua New Guinea as a whole,” McPherson said. “Our logo will give our club a recognizable identity and symbol that our players, staff, sponsors, community and supporters can resonate with and truly call their own.”“It represents where we have come from as a nation, the values we will stand for as a club, and the future we want to build together for all Papua New Guineans.”“This is a logo that belongs to the entire PNG Chiefs community. It is a mark of pride for Papua New Guinea and for everyone who has believed in what this club can become, and we are incredibly excited to walk into the next era of the Chiefs in this way.”The unveiling of the logo will be followed by the launch of the club’s inaugural jersey, which will be revealed and made available for purchase on October 22.The jersey has been proudly designed by a local artist and team, with careful consideration given to affordability and accessibility for all Papua New Guineans.

After taking her Oath of Office today and creating history as the first female Public Prosecutor of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea, Ms. Helen Roalakona expressed her commitment to reform, build capacity, and uphold the rule of law while in office amid ongoing challenges facing the nation.In her first address to the media as the Public Prosecutor, Ms. Roalakona emphasized the importance of her role and the support she has received.“Today has been a significant event for me and for the Office of the Public Prosecutor, having been sworn in to take on the office as the first female public prosecutor for Papua New Guinea,” she stated.“The role is not a very light role. I understand the weight that comes with it and I think what is reassuring is the support of the government and recognition of the Office of the Public Prosecutor and the role it plays.”Ms. Roalakona understands that the pressure is on and acknowledged her former boss for having confidence in her ability to do the job.“I take on the role as a human being who can do the job. So, I take it on with that confidence.“We’re at a stage with the country's current situation of law and order, and especially with the country being placed on the grey list, where a lot of attention has been given to the lack of prosecutions. It is an important time for the Office of the Public Prosecutor to step up, to carry out its mandate, and to uphold the rule of law.”Her immediate focus is on strengthening the operations of the office which she now occupies.“We hope that within the tenure of my appointment, we are able to achieve, firstly, strengthening the operations of the Office of the Public Prosecutor to increase our manpower and capacity, essentially to meet the demands of the country, to respond positively to the country's position with the grey listing, and being part of the strategy to take the country out of the grey listing are some of our important priorities during the tenure of my appointment,” she said.The new Public Prosecutor also highlighted the Office’s regional engagement.“In the recent past, we’ve engaged with our Melanesian partners, where we have signed MoUs with the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu. We intend to provide assistance and capacity building to our neighbouring countries, our Melanesian brothers, to strengthen their capacity and share our skills.”She reaffirmed the unique status of the Public Prosecutor’s Office in PNG, as a very unique law office, where they are the only Prosecutor’s Agency in the country with powers to take on very seriously, and ensure to exercise and to control that power according to the law.Despite being a small team, she expressed confidence in her staff and for the support she has received over the past 12 months during her acting tenure. She also thanked and acknowledged her two deputies for their support and ensuring the operations during her acting tenure ran smoothly.Looking ahead, she outlined her strategic vision for the next six years.“Our overall objective is to raise the standard of prosecutions in this country, to increase our skills and capacity, and to deliver prosecution services that are effective and efficient for the people of Papua New Guinea,” she said.Institutional reform and expansion are also on the agenda.“Currently, we have about 11 provincial offices, and we aim to increase that to at least 15 or 20, especially in provinces with resident judges and high volumes of criminal matters,” she added.“This will require an increase in manpower, and we have approval to recruit the right people to fill these positions. It’s part of our five-year corporate plan to expand our presence into all provinces, especially where the need is greatest.”Her appointment marks a new chapter for the Office of the Public Prosecutor and the nation’s justice system.“It is an important time for the Office to step up and meet the demands of the country. We are committed to strengthening our institution and delivering justice for all Papua New Guineans.” Roalakona concluded.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) marked a significant moment in its legal history today with the official swearing in of Ms. Helen Roalakona as the country’s first female taking charge of the Office of the Public Prosecutor.The emotional swearing-in ceremony was witnessed by Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika and Minister for Justice and Attorney General Pila Niningi, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Ms. Roalakona’s legal career.Ms. Roalakona had served as Acting Public Prosecutor following her appointment to the position in 2025.Her appointment as Public Prosecutor was subsequently announced in August this year by Minister Niningi in his capacity as Chairman of the National Judicial Council.Congratulating Ms. Roalakona, Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika reflected on his own experience as a public prosecutor, acknowledging that the role was demanding and carried significant responsibility.Sir Gibbs reminded the new Public Prosecutor that the Office of the Public Prosecutor is the prosecuting authority of Papua New Guinea, with a constitutional responsibility to administer criminal prosecutions independently and in the public interest.He said the Public Prosecutor’s Office plays an important role in representing the interests of the people of Papua New Guinea in criminal proceedings, including ensuring that accused persons are prosecuted fairly and that the law is applied without fear, favour or improper influence.Sir Gibbs described Ms. Roalakona’s appointment as a historic occasion and wishes her and her team success as they take the Office into its next chapter.Justice Minister and Attorney General Pila Niningi also congratulated Ms. Roalakona, describing her appointment as well deserved.Mr. Niningi said he was confident that Ms. Roalakona would provide strong leadership and guide the Office of the Public Prosecutor into a new era of professionalism, accountability and effective prosecution.In her first remarks after taking the oath, Ms. Roalakona identified strengthening the prosecution of public corruption cases as one of her immediate priorities.She said addressing corruption was critical to restoring public confidence in the country’s justice system and would also contribute to Papua New Guinea’s efforts to address concerns associated with its grey-listing status.As Public Prosecutor, Ms. Roalakona will have responsibility for overseeing the prosecution of criminal offences on behalf of the State, providing legal direction to public prosecutors, determining whether and how serious criminal matters should proceed, and ensuring prosecutions are conducted fairly, independently and in accordance with the law.Her office also plays an important role in protecting the integrity of the criminal justice system by ensuring that prosecutions are based on sufficient evidence, safeguarding the rights of accused persons while representing the public interest, and working with law enforcement and other justice-sector agencies to strengthen the administration of criminal justice.Ms. Roalakona’s appointment comes at a time when Papua New Guinea is seeking stronger action against corruption and greater public confidence in its justice institutions.Her immediate focus on public corruption prosecutions is therefore, expected to place the Office of the Public Prosecutor at the centre of efforts to strengthen accountability and the rule of law in the country.