Dede Sophie

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape today brushed aside reports on social media about his son’s alleged involvement in the transportation of monies amounting to K1.56 million from Port Moresby to Komo in Hela Province.  He clarified this when speaking to the media upon returning from voting in his electorate this afternoon. PM Marape’s son was detained by Police at Komo airport in Hela Province after he was in possession of about K1.56 million [Photo by Komo Police] Mr. Marape said his son was at a location nearby to where the suspect was found with the monies. He said the money allegedly belonged to a local construction company – Ipwenz Construction Limited. Mr. Marape said “He was not in the plane carrying the money. He was not part of the team that was carrying the money. It was a complete isolated matter from another person who was transporting the money who happened to be Director of the company. Nothing to do with me. My son had no input in the tra...

The Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is the first foreign leader to address the Papua New Guinea  National Parliament since independence. He was ushered into the chamber this morning and seated at the right side of Speaker Job Pomat. The Australian Prime Minister was allowed to address the House under a provision of the Parliament Standing Orders as a special guest. Australian Prime Minister Albanese addresses PNG Parliament [Photo by NBC News] In his speech, the Labor leader says it is a great honour for him to speak to the members and people of this nation. He reaffirmed the Australian Government’s commitment in key areas of health, education, trade and security, and others. Prime Minister James Marape welcomed Mr. Albanese and said his visit to the country will enhance the peculiar history both nations shared. Mr. Marape also acknowledges the Australian Prime Minister’s recognition of our shared past and highlighted many issues that both nations need to address ...