Central Bougainville Regional Women’s seat now has a new member, Ms. Theresa Baranangko who was officially declared the Member-Elect for the Central Bougainville Regional Women's Seat.Ms. Baranangko won by a landslide victory of 23,303 votes after the final exclusion. The Returning Officer Mr. Tonny Moera made the declaration at 12.12amBST at the Tupukas Primary School Hall in Arawa over the weekend on Saturday morning. Out of the five female candidates that contested the Women's seat, Theresa maintained the lead, collecting over 16,000 votes in the primary count across the ten Constituencies of Central Bougainville and the ballots from the BIBs and BOBs voters, and later picked up more than 7,000 votes in the elimination round to finish off with 23,303 votes. Second runner up was the sitting member, Geraldine Yolanda Paul who finished with 14,000 votes. Speaking at the declaration, Ms. Baranangko vowed to work with all stakeholders including fellow candidates, and citizens of all ten Constituencies of Central Bougainville to deliver Bougainville's aspiration for independence.

After addressing the 80th United Nations General Assembly, Prime Minister James Marape issued a powerful appeal to world leaders and industries to take urgent action to preserve the planet, warning that Earth is fast approaching a “boiling point” due to human-induced climate change.He stated that science is clear that the anthropogenic impacts of industrialization and fossil fuel use are pushing the planet toward an irreversible tipping point. “We have inherited a liveable planet from our ancestors; we must pass on a liveable planet to our descendants.” “There is no other planet in the observable universe with the properties to sustain life like Earth, thus God has made this one planet for human beings—why destroy it?” Prime Minister Marape urged the G20 nations and global industries with the largest carbon footprints to invest in conservation partnerships with forest-rich nations like Papua New Guinea (PNG). “If you are not yet transitioning fully away from coal and fossil fuels, then assist nations like PNG to preserve our forests and oceans, and to reforest and regenerate nature.” “These are global assets—oxygen providers—that keep Earth in balance.” PNG, as a major tropical forest and ocean nation, contributes significantly to the global carbon sink and Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed PNG’s willingness to use its vast forest, ocean, and biodiversity resources as part of the solution, but called for genuine international support. “Our forests are a solution and in Articles 5 and 6 of the Paris Agreement talk about saving forests, and PNG offers our resources sustainably.” “We want our people to earn from conserving their forests, not only from harvesting them.” The Prime Minister said PNG would continue to advocate strongly at COP30 in Brazil, wherefor the first time a major forest nation will host the global climate conference. He emphasized that preservation must begin now, warning that in the future humanity could be forced to fight for oxygen “carrying it in bottles.” In addition, he also announced that PNG will not pursue carbon taxes on companies operating in its economy, given its carbon-negative position, but instead provide a “green certificate” to industries operating sustainably in PNG. “Our total carbon footprint is far less than our carbon absorption capacity, and Companies that operate in PNG will receive certification that they are working in a carbon-negative country.” “For their operations abroad, we welcome them to offset emissions by supporting conservation in PNG.” He further concluded with a reminder that the Earth is humanity’s shared home were everyone live in one planet and what happens in one part of the world affects the rest of us as COVID-19 has demonstrated. “The responsibility to save Earth starts now, and leaders, industries, communities, big or small, we all owe it to our children and grandchildren to preserve this planet.”

Prime Minister James Marape expressed gratitude and praised United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres for his strong support towards Papua New Guinea’s ongoing advocacy for climate justice, sustainable forestry, and ocean conservation.In recent meeting between Prime Minister Marape and Secretary-General Guterres in New York following the UN General Assembly, the UN chief reaffirmed his commitment to stand with Papua New Guinea and other climate-vulnerable nations in pushing for meaningful global action. “The Secretary-General has given us his full support in ensuring that Papua New Guinea’s voice is heard,” Prime Minister Marape said. “He reaffirmed that our advocacy for forestry and ocean resources will be supported at the highest level, and that bigger polluting nations must contribute to assist us in conserving these critical resources.” The Prime Minister emphasized that Papua New Guinea, still stands as both a forest and ocean nation, occupies a unique position in the fight against climate change. While its carbon footprint is small, the country’s forests and oceans act as vital carbon sinks that benefit the whole world. “It is no secret that if we are to stop forest harvesting, then those with the largest Carbone missions must help us save our forests and oceans,” he said. “Forestry and ocean resources are global mitigation tools, and we intend to bring this conversation to COP30 in Brazil.” Papua New Guinea has also pitched for Australia to host COP31, creating a symbolic link between ocean and forest nations as hosts of successive climate conferences Prime Minister Marape further highlighted the urgent need for adaptation strategies to address sea-level rise, extreme weather events, and shifting global climate patterns, which continue to threaten PNG’s Island communities. “Secretary-General Guterres not only recognized these realities but assured me of his full support for Papua New Guinea’s advocacy,” Prime Minister Marape said. “He continues to champion climate justice and stands with us in calling for bigger nations to take responsibility and help those of us most affected.” The Prime Minister concluded by reaffirming Papua New Guinea’s dual role as both a victim of climate change and a provider of solutions, noting that the country’s forests and oceans remain essential to restoring the global carbon balance.

The incumbent President of the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, Ishmael Toroama has retained the Bougainville Presidency seat after surpassing the absolute majority.This was announced at around 4:20pm this Friday afternoon, 26th September 2025. Following the completion of the quality check, Toroama secured a commanding total of 90,443 votes, well above the absolute majority of 69,629.This declaration confirms President Toroama’s mandate to continue leading Bougainville over the next five years through its political transition.

Mr. Robert Hamal Sawa was declared today Friday 26th September 2025 as the Member-elect for Hagogohe Constituency, North Bougainville retaining his seat in the 2025 Bougainville election.Sawa secured a total of 1,270 votes, surpassing the absolute majority of 1,212 by 68 votes.Counting for Peit Constituency is currently underway, with Halia and Haku constituencies left to complete the single constituencies in North Bougainville.Still in North Bougainville a declaration was also made yesterday for the Tsitalato Constituency.Mr. John Bosco Ragu was declared the Member-elect for Tsitalato Constituency yesterday, retaining his seat.Bosco Ragu secured a total of 1,724 votes, surpassing the absolute majority of 1,595. He finished ahead of Benson Kiha, who polled 1,465 votes to take second place.For more election updates, all are urged to follow the official ABG WhatsApp Channel and Facebook page.

Prime Minister James Marape has reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) commitment to global climate action, pledging stronger national targets and calling for greater international support ahead of the pivotal COP30 negotiations in Brazil.He made these remarks at the United Nations (UN) Secretary-General’s Special Event on Climate Change, co-convened with H.E. Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, President of Brazil.The event brought together world leaders and climate advocates to set the tone for bold action as COP30 approaches.Prime Minister Marape praised the UN’s leadership under Secretary-General António Guterres and acknowledged President Lula’s efforts in championing forests and oceans as critical to the global response to climate change.“As we head towards COP30, I reaffirm Papua New Guinea’s support, as both a forest and ocean nation, we stand with Brazil and support Australia’s bid to host COP31, so that the world recognizes the central role that forests and oceans play in climate change mitigation.”He stressed that PNG’s dual role in the climate struggle, stating that the country is both a victim of climate change and a provider of solutions.“We are custodians of the world’s third-largest tropical rainforest and vast oceans that host seven percent of global biodiversity.”“Despite our small carbon footprint, we remain one of Earth’s greatest natural carbon sinks.”He emphasized that forests and oceans in their natural state are the foundations of the planet’s carbon balance and vital to sustaining life on earth.In addition, the Prime Minister outlined ambitious national commitments to climate action, including enhanced Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC)with stronger targets such as;• A pledge to achieve net-zero deforestation by 2030.• A new national policy to safeguard mangroves, seagrass, and coastal ecosystems.• Scaling up renewable energy investments.• Investments in climate-resilient infrastructure and early warning systems to protect communities.“These commitments will cost an estimated US$7.7 billion by 2030.”Calling for scaled-up international support, the Prime Minister urged developed nations to deliver on climate finance pledges, expand technology transfer, and strengthen global funds for vulnerable countries.“At COP30, we need to launch genuine public–private partnerships to deliver on the promise of reversing global deforestation by 2030.“That goal will never be achieved unless we dramatically increase finance. Forest nations need this placed at the top of the COP30 agenda.”He concluded by reaffirming PNG’s solidarity with Brazil, Australia, and other forest and ocean nations, pledging to continue offering both forests and oceans as solutions to the climate crisis.“It is the forests and oceans in their natural state that will sustain life on earth. At COP30, Papua New Guinea will stand with Brazil and other nations to ensure our planet’s survival.”

Following the announcement for the new date for the return of writs by the Bougainville Electoral Commissioner, from September 22nd to the August 6th, 2025, the Bougainville Parliamentary Services has now revised all dates for all parliamentary events that is to follow election. Following the change to the date of the return of the writs, the revised dates for the main events are as follows: • Swearing-in of Caretaker Bougainville Executive Council – Monday 6th October 2025 (immediately after the return of writs) • Members Dedication Mass/Service – Thursday 9th October 2025 • Swearing in of all Members of the Fifth House of Representatives – Friday 10th October 2025 • Members Induction – Monday 13th to Friday 17th October 2025 • Parliament Meeting – Tuesday 28th October to Thursday 30th October 2025 • Ombudsman Commission Workshop – Thursday 30th to Friday 31st October 2025 • Committee Chairs and Deputy Chairs Induction – Monday 3rd to Wednesday 5th November 2025 • Members Constituency Executive officers’ induction – Thursday 6th November 2025 All these are the new revised and confirm dates for parliamentary events after return of writs.

Today is the day for the return of the writs for the 2025 Bougainville General Elections, however, after careful consideration, the Office of Bougainville Electoral Commission (OBEC) has determined that there is insufficient time to return the writs by 22nd September 2025 as earlier anticipated. At the moment all counting for the 2025 Bougainville General Elections are proceeding calmly, transparently and peacefully. OBEC’s priority is the timely establishment of a new House of Representatives, and to achieve this, the scrutiny and counting of votes must be carried out with the highest standards of accuracy and transparency. In line with Sections 146 and 147 of the Bougainville Elections Act, and under public notice, the Commissioner has responsibly decided it is necessary to extend the date for the Return of Writs until 6th October. “OBEC is committed to ensuring the count is conducted in a transparent, peaceful, and calm environment, and remains grateful for the cooperation of candidates, scrutineers, observers, and the public,” said Electoral Commissioner, Mr. Desmond Tsianai. After polling, ballot boxes were securely transported to the four counting centres, with police providing constant security. “Due to logistical issues, counting began three days later than expected, on 12th September and continues to progress steadily.” OBEC reaffirms its commitment to completing the counting process as quickly and transparently as possible. The Commissioner extended his gratitude to OBEC electoral officials for their resilience, to candidates and scrutineers for their engagement, and to observers and media for their oversight. “This has been a transparent and peaceful election process,” the Commissioner said. "Together, with the patience and commitment of all involved, we will bring this election to a successful conclusion.” For electoral updates, Like and Follow OBEC via its Facebook page and visit the election platform www.abgelections2025.com

While the rest of the country celebrated the 50th Independence in freedom, inmates in correctional institutions around the country too held independence celebrations. The Bomana Correctional Service (CS) institution outside Port Moresby city was no exception has they were blessed with donations of food and drink cartons by Bhuiyan Group of Companies to make their celebration a success. The donations included cartons of frozen food and beverages, five cartons of chicken, six cartons of lamb flaps, 10 cartons of sausages, 10 cartons of soft drinks (24 packs each), and 50 cartons of bottled water. Those food donations catered for the entire prison population, including warders and their families, as they join the rest of the nation in celebrating Independence Day on Tuesday. Bomana Prison Minor Security Unit (MSU) Officer-in-Charge, Senior Inspector Joe Yamason, received the donation from Bhuiyan Group of Companies Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Gius Uddin Bhuiyan and his team, acknowledging the company’s continued support and contribution on many occasions, thanking them for putting smiles on the faces of the prisoners. Snr Insp Yamason emphasized that the company has no formal ties with the Correctional Service but continues to provide heartfelt support. “They are not our service providers, and the government does not fund them, however they are outsiders who came with good hearts to support us with this donation of food, knowing that its Independence Day,” Snr Insp Yamason said. CEO Gius Uddin Bhuiyan, a long-time resident of Port Moresby for the past 23 years, said Papua New Guinea is like home to him. He added that his business has supported communities over the years and will continue to do so. Mr. Bhuiyan also confirmed that Bhuiyan Group employs more than 400 Papua New Guineans across the country. Team member John Bria, who assisted with the presentation, stated that all businesses operating in the country should have community obligations. “Companies should give back to communities rather than just operating for profit without contributing.” “The government should not allow outsiders to come into the country, make profits, and leave without giving back,” Mr. Bria said. CIS Senior Inspector Yamason confirmed that Bomana currently houses more than 700 prisoners, with 400 convicted and the remainder on remand. “The prison population includes 60 women, 32 juveniles, and the rest in both the high-security and minimum-security units.”

At exactly around 4pm this afternoon, Mr. Didymus Kisso Napto was officially declared the Member-elect for Nissan Constituency, successfully retaining his seat. He was declared by the North Regional Returning Officer Mr. Gary Kenehe. Mr. Napto secured victory after the second exclusion, polling a total of 1,758 votes, surpassing the absolute majority of 1,715. The exclusion of Candidate Ephrem Samuel saw 364 votes distributed, with Julian Tombola Lamasam (1,047) and John Paul Toll (623) following behind. The formal declaration confirms Mr. Napto’s return to Parliament as the incumbent, reaffirming the people’s confidence in his leadership. Also, in North Bougainville earlier today Mr. David Braun Vatavi was declared the Member-elect for Taonita Tinputz Constituency. Vatavi was declared after the 12th exclusion, which saw sitting member Morris Opeti eliminated with 985 votes. Mr. Vatavi secured a final progressive total of 1,784 votes, surpassing the absolute majority of 1,601, ahead of Dyson Kaetavara who finished with 1,416 votes. The people of Taonita Tinputz Constituency now have a new leader.

The Moresby North- East District in the Nation's Capital delivered the biggest number of shows to mark the 50th Independence Anniversary of Papua New Guinea. In Moresby North-East District alone, a total of 21 shows and events were hosted including Independence sports competition in all the wards in the district. The Independence Celebration program in the district started off on the 12th of September and wrapped up yesterday, Wednesday 17th September with the last show at Bushwara. Speaking during the report submission meet yesterday at Manuti, Member for Moresby North-East John Kaupa congratulated all the 21 Chairmen for organizing and successfully hosting the 21 Independence Shows respectively. “I am very proud of the outcome, your Show Chairmen have done tremendous job, and I look forward to working with you all come next year Independence.” Mr. Kaupa highlighted that it is not good for one to travel far to celebrate independence when the show can be brought to the people, to where they live, where they are known, amongst people and place they are familiar with because safety and security is paramount. “I want to congratulate the people of Moresby North- East for taking ownership, for celebrating peacefully and for showing the true spirit of unity.” Mr. Kaupa highlighted that the National Government has allocated K2million and the North-East District Office has allocated another K1million, so a total of K3million was budgeted for the Independence show for the people of Moresby North-East. “The money was allocated for the people, it’s the people’s money, therefore, it is the right thing to do to get everyone involved in the celebrations so that they too can at list benefit from the K3million.” Furthermore, Mr. Kaupa highlighted that from the K3million, he had also given funds to schools and institution within the district so that they too could feel part of the big district family. “All primary schools within the district were given K5,000, all secondary schools in the district were given K10,000 each, all tertiary institutions within the district were given K20,000 each and the Bomana Prison was also given K20,000, these fundings were given to assist in the 50th Independence celebrations.” “My focus now is to look at all the show reports submitted back to the office by the Show Chairmen and I will sit down with my board and we will make budget breakups and fix payments according to the size of each shows, and we will not go wrong as we have officers visiting each show, and I as your member too, I have visited yours shows so you will be paid accordingly.” Mr. Kapua reiterated that all who have taken part, in traditional bilas, sing-sing, traditional dance, creative dance, sports and all other activities that were part of the show will be paid an incentive as token of appreciation for their participation in the districts 21 shows for the 50th Independence Anniversary. “I want to also thank the two police commanders, Inspector Henry Map from 7mile Police station as well as Inspector Leonard Wai from our new 9 mile Police Station and their officers including our good soldiers from Kiki Barracks here at ATW for providing security in the district, thus, the outcome was a trouble free and happy celebrations in the district.”

To mark an end to official visits, programs and celebrations for the 50th Independence Anniversary in Papua New Guinea (PNG), a flag lowering ceremony was conducted at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium at Konedobu in Port Moresby on Tuesday September 16, 2025. Fifty years ago, Sir Hubert Murray stadium was the venue the Australian flag was lowered and fifty years later the PNG flag was lowered, folded and handed over to the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward to mark the closing of the official golden celebrations and to also signify the start of a journey for another fifty years for the people of PNG. Speaking during the occasion was Governor General Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae who thanked the Monarchy and his Royal Highness Duke of Edinburgh for gracing the people of PNG with his presence. Sir Bob stated that PNG has grown and evolved despite challenges, as a nation of culture. With 800 languages and unique tradition, PNG has stood together, united as one nation and one country. Sir Bob highlighted that on 16th September 1975, it was a proud moment for PNG, under the stewardship of late Grand Chief Sir Micheal Somare PNG came to be. “His Majesty King Charles, who was then Prince, was present here at this very stadium to witness the birth of this country.” “He showed constitutional monarchy as our system of government to be part of the commonwealth, as a realm of nation and Queen Elizabeth was our head of state.” In addition, Sir Bob reiterated that PNG is thrilled to have his Royal Highness officiate the special occasion and that PNG will continue close relationship with our Head of State under His Majestic Reign. “PNG is grateful for the Monarchy’s contribution to the development of PNG.” “Your Royal Highness we are immensely proud and honored that you are here with us and that may you take with you, fond memories of PNG in which we welcome you to visit us again." Meanwhile, Sir Bob added that PNG is overwhelmed with joy, pride and deeper appreciation of the association to the monarchy and the presence of the Royal Highness Duke of Edinburgh which signifies the important connection. “If I may convey through your royal highness on behalf of the people of PNG and the government, our profound gratitude to his majestic King Charles 3rd.” Sir Bob also added that he is proud of the people of PNG and the journey the people of this country have all forged together in the last fifty years. “PNG will continue to grow stronger, thus reaffirming its commitment to be a country that is friend to all and enemy to none.” “God Bless Papua New Guinea.”