Papua New Guinea Government is fanning anti Asian sentiments

Let me state at the outset that I do not wish to sound like the Parliamentary opposition nor do I want to be seen to be speaking for them. But as a citizen of this country, I do have the right to speak out on government matters that have a bearing on my individual as well as our collective well beings. Indeed it is our right to scrutinise any Prime Minister of the day and his government, who are the custodians of our cultural, social, political and economic heritage.

That said, the Prime Minister has been acting in a highly suspicious manner in his response to the anti Asian riots that occurred in May this year. He initially made an appearance on the government owned television station, Kundu 2, just after the riots to address Papua New Guineans on the issue and ended up defending Asians and blaming our people for our predicament.

He did not stop there. His worst display was in an interview on the issue with the Arabic television station Al Jazeera where he visibly got emotional and stumbled all over his words defending Asians again and in the process casting Papua New Guineans in a very negative light as a bunch of lazy people. This interview made the popular internet motion image site youtube where the whole world saw and heard what our own Prime Minister thinks about us. Makes one wonder whose interest he really is serving.

While he successfully managed to get the wheels of blame game in full motion, he then turned around and set up the Parliamentary Bi-partisan Committee to investigate the matter as a way of showing us that he was doing something about the issue. But there was a catch. He wasn’t going to fund the committee’s activities. It now appears highly likely that this was a smoke screen to play the all too familiar delay tactics in the hope that Papua New Guineans will simply forget about the rot over time as we almost often do.

To the committee’s credit, the grossly under funded team laboured on under the leadership of Anglimp South Waghi MP Jamie-Maxtone Graham as its Chairman and conducted a series of inquiries into the matter in Port Moresby. Not surprisingly, the committee unearthed some horrifying evidences of a complete collapse of our governance systems and national defence and protection mechanisms, a range of illegal Asian activities and even an inference of a presence of Chinese triads in our country. In my view, the committee did an excellent job and was pushing ahead with its activities under difficult circumstances and with very limited funding support from the government.

But the Prime Minister and his government had other ideas. With their first strategy of shifting blame on Papua New Guineans clearly failing, they then turned to the committee as a façade with the hope of slowly suffocating it to death, and hence the demise of the issue, over a period of time by simply turning a blind eye on its funding requirements. This strategy clearly wasn’t going to work as Mr Graham and his committee refused to take this bait. So what did they do? Use the ultimate power of the Parliament to effectively disband the committee by terminating its chairman without prior notice and without caring to tell us why he was removed.

Paul Tiensten, the mover of this motion to oust Mr Graham, should hang his head in shame for his abusive and arrogant display of power. The picture all of this is painting to us is that Asian interests in Papua New Guinea, regardless of their legality, are deeply entrenched in our corridors of power and that it will be very difficult to address their illegal activities in our country in the most lawful and civilised manner possible. Our government’s seemingly compromised position on this issue raises the great fear we all hold that the man on the streets might grow impatient and start taking matters into his own hands again.

I sincerely hope that this never happens for the sake of the genuine Asian community in our country. But is there a possibility it might happen? Yes indeed. There is a high likelihood of it happening again. At about the time the Prime Minister made that villainous Al Jazeera appearance, the Australian Associated Press released a short news article in which they attributed comments by our own National Intelligence Organisation that the anti Asian sentiments among indigenous Papua New Guineans is at fever pitch high and it is the number one national security threat for our nation at this stage.

The NIO’s assessment is not unreasonable given the fact a certain unsigned e-mail is currently being circulated among working class Papua New Guineans calling and soliciting support for a complete destruction of Asian businesses and property on New Year’s Eve. I hope this doesn’t happen, and it may not happen. But what it means is that what was initially started by the common man has quickly caught on with the working class, and there can never be a more potent situation than this.

The Prime Minister and his government must not underestimate these sentiments and warnings because this is probably the one major thing that has the potential to cause mutiny in our police force and the military and throw the nation into total chaos and anarchy. Don’t forget that our policemen and soldiers are Papua New

Guineans first and foremost, and certain serving individuals would not hesitate to defy lawful orders from their hierarchy and do otherwise if they are convinced enough that the political leadership is incapable of effectively dealing with the issue.

At a time when we are looking for strong political leadership and direction to appropriately deal with this matter and defuse the tensions, our government sees fit to do the exact opposite. The Prime Minister and his government are only fanning anti Asian sentiments by removing Mr Graham under highly suspicious circumstances and must be prepared to take full responsibility if things get out of hand. With due respect to David Arore, he is an untested fresh face in the political arena with little experience in dealing with difficult issues and situations such as this.

We shall wait and see his ability to run the inquiries without fear and favour and to coerce the truth to come out as the committee’s work progresses under his leadership. In the mean time, we can only hope and pray that the common man on the ground can continue to hold his patience while we experiment with inexperienced people at the helm of a crucial investigation exercise of national importance. But for how long he can keep the lid on is another matter?

Source: Post Courier Weekender

Papua New Guinea Government is fanning anti Asian sentiments

Let me state at the outset that I do not wish to sound like the Parliamentary opposition nor do I want to be seen to be speaking for them. But as a citizen of this country, I do have the right to speak out on government matters that have a bearing on my individual as well as our collective well beings. Indeed it is our right to scrutinise any Prime Minister of the day and his government, who are the custodians of our cultural, social, political and economic heritage.

That said, the Prime Minister has been acting in a highly suspicious manner in his response to the anti Asian riots that occurred in May this year. He initially made an appearance on the government owned television station, Kundu 2, just after the riots to address Papua New Guineans on the issue and ended up defending Asians and blaming our people for our predicament.

He did not stop there. His worst display was in an interview on the issue with the Arabic television station Al Jazeera where he visibly got emotional and stumbled all over his words defending Asians again and in the process casting Papua New Guineans in a very negative light as a bunch of lazy people. This interview made the popular internet motion image site youtube where the whole world saw and heard what our own Prime Minister thinks about us. Makes one wonder whose interest he really is serving.

While he successfully managed to get the wheels of blame game in full motion, he then turned around and set up the Parliamentary Bi-partisan Committee to investigate the matter as a way of showing us that he was doing something about the issue. But there was a catch. He wasn’t going to fund the committee’s activities. It now appears highly likely that this was a smoke screen to play the all too familiar delay tactics in the hope that Papua New Guineans will simply forget about the rot over time as we almost often do.

To the committee’s credit, the grossly under funded team laboured on under the leadership of Anglimp South Waghi MP Jamie-Maxtone Graham as its Chairman and conducted a series of inquiries into the matter in Port Moresby. Not surprisingly, the committee unearthed some horrifying evidences of a complete collapse of our governance systems and national defence and protection mechanisms, a range of illegal Asian activities and even an inference of a presence of Chinese triads in our country. In my view, the committee did an excellent job and was pushing ahead with its activities under difficult circumstances and with very limited funding support from the government.

But the Prime Minister and his government had other ideas. With their first strategy of shifting blame on Papua New Guineans clearly failing, they then turned to the committee as a façade with the hope of slowly suffocating it to death, and hence the demise of the issue, over a period of time by simply turning a blind eye on its funding requirements. This strategy clearly wasn’t going to work as Mr Graham and his committee refused to take this bait. So what did they do? Use the ultimate power of the Parliament to effectively disband the committee by terminating its chairman without prior notice and without caring to tell us why he was removed.

Paul Tiensten, the mover of this motion to oust Mr Graham, should hang his head in shame for his abusive and arrogant display of power. The picture all of this is painting to us is that Asian interests in Papua New Guinea, regardless of their legality, are deeply entrenched in our corridors of power and that it will be very difficult to address their illegal activities in our country in the most lawful and civilised manner possible. Our government’s seemingly compromised position on this issue raises the great fear we all hold that the man on the streets might grow impatient and start taking matters into his own hands again.

I sincerely hope that this never happens for the sake of the genuine Asian community in our country. But is there a possibility it might happen? Yes indeed. There is a high likelihood of it happening again. At about the time the Prime Minister made that villainous Al Jazeera appearance, the Australian Associated Press released a short news article in which they attributed comments by our own National Intelligence Organisation that the anti Asian sentiments among indigenous Papua New Guineans is at fever pitch high and it is the number one national security threat for our nation at this stage.

The NIO’s assessment is not unreasonable given the fact a certain unsigned e-mail is currently being circulated among working class Papua New Guineans calling and soliciting support for a complete destruction of Asian businesses and property on New Year’s Eve. I hope this doesn’t happen, and it may not happen. But what it means is that what was initially started by the common man has quickly caught on with the working class, and there can never be a more potent situation than this.

The Prime Minister and his government must not underestimate these sentiments and warnings because this is probably the one major thing that has the potential to cause mutiny in our police force and the military and throw the nation into total chaos and anarchy. Don’t forget that our policemen and soldiers are Papua New

Guineans first and foremost, and certain serving individuals would not hesitate to defy lawful orders from their hierarchy and do otherwise if they are convinced enough that the political leadership is incapable of effectively dealing with the issue.

At a time when we are looking for strong political leadership and direction to appropriately deal with this matter and defuse the tensions, our government sees fit to do the exact opposite. The Prime Minister and his government are only fanning anti Asian sentiments by removing Mr Graham under highly suspicious circumstances and must be prepared to take full responsibility if things get out of hand. With due respect to David Arore, he is an untested fresh face in the political arena with little experience in dealing with difficult issues and situations such as this.

We shall wait and see his ability to run the inquiries without fear and favour and to coerce the truth to come out as the committee’s work progresses under his leadership. In the mean time, we can only hope and pray that the common man on the ground can continue to hold his patience while we experiment with inexperienced people at the helm of a crucial investigation exercise of national importance. But for how long he can keep the lid on is another matter?

Source: Post Courier Weekender

Papua New Guinea Government is fanning anti Asian sentiments

Let me state at the outset that I do not wish to sound like the Parliamentary opposition nor do I want to be seen to be speaking for them. But as a citizen of this country, I do have the right to speak out on government matters that have a bearing on my individual as well as our collective well beings. Indeed it is our right to scrutinise any Prime Minister of the day and his government, who are the custodians of our cultural, social, political and economic heritage.

That said, the Prime Minister has been acting in a highly suspicious manner in his response to the anti Asian riots that occurred in May this year. He initially made an appearance on the government owned television station, Kundu 2, just after the riots to address Papua New Guineans on the issue and ended up defending Asians and blaming our people for our predicament.

He did not stop there. His worst display was in an interview on the issue with the Arabic television station Al Jazeera where he visibly got emotional and stumbled all over his words defending Asians again and in the process casting Papua New Guineans in a very negative light as a bunch of lazy people. This interview made the popular internet motion image site youtube where the whole world saw and heard what our own Prime Minister thinks about us. Makes one wonder whose interest he really is serving.

While he successfully managed to get the wheels of blame game in full motion, he then turned around and set up the Parliamentary Bi-partisan Committee to investigate the matter as a way of showing us that he was doing something about the issue. But there was a catch. He wasn’t going to fund the committee’s activities. It now appears highly likely that this was a smoke screen to play the all too familiar delay tactics in the hope that Papua New Guineans will simply forget about the rot over time as we almost often do.

To the committee’s credit, the grossly under funded team laboured on under the leadership of Anglimp South Waghi MP Jamie-Maxtone Graham as its Chairman and conducted a series of inquiries into the matter in Port Moresby. Not surprisingly, the committee unearthed some horrifying evidences of a complete collapse of our governance systems and national defence and protection mechanisms, a range of illegal Asian activities and even an inference of a presence of Chinese triads in our country. In my view, the committee did an excellent job and was pushing ahead with its activities under difficult circumstances and with very limited funding support from the government.

But the Prime Minister and his government had other ideas. With their first strategy of shifting blame on Papua New Guineans clearly failing, they then turned to the committee as a façade with the hope of slowly suffocating it to death, and hence the demise of the issue, over a period of time by simply turning a blind eye on its funding requirements. This strategy clearly wasn’t going to work as Mr Graham and his committee refused to take this bait. So what did they do? Use the ultimate power of the Parliament to effectively disband the committee by terminating its chairman without prior notice and without caring to tell us why he was removed.

Paul Tiensten, the mover of this motion to oust Mr Graham, should hang his head in shame for his abusive and arrogant display of power. The picture all of this is painting to us is that Asian interests in Papua New Guinea, regardless of their legality, are deeply entrenched in our corridors of power and that it will be very difficult to address their illegal activities in our country in the most lawful and civilised manner possible. Our government’s seemingly compromised position on this issue raises the great fear we all hold that the man on the streets might grow impatient and start taking matters into his own hands again.

I sincerely hope that this never happens for the sake of the genuine Asian community in our country. But is there a possibility it might happen? Yes indeed. There is a high likelihood of it happening again. At about the time the Prime Minister made that villainous Al Jazeera appearance, the Australian Associated Press released a short news article in which they attributed comments by our own National Intelligence Organisation that the anti Asian sentiments among indigenous Papua New Guineans is at fever pitch high and it is the number one national security threat for our nation at this stage.

The NIO’s assessment is not unreasonable given the fact a certain unsigned e-mail is currently being circulated among working class Papua New Guineans calling and soliciting support for a complete destruction of Asian businesses and property on New Year’s Eve. I hope this doesn’t happen, and it may not happen. But what it means is that what was initially started by the common man has quickly caught on with the working class, and there can never be a more potent situation than this.

The Prime Minister and his government must not underestimate these sentiments and warnings because this is probably the one major thing that has the potential to cause mutiny in our police force and the military and throw the nation into total chaos and anarchy. Don’t forget that our policemen and soldiers are Papua New

Guineans first and foremost, and certain serving individuals would not hesitate to defy lawful orders from their hierarchy and do otherwise if they are convinced enough that the political leadership is incapable of effectively dealing with the issue.

At a time when we are looking for strong political leadership and direction to appropriately deal with this matter and defuse the tensions, our government sees fit to do the exact opposite. The Prime Minister and his government are only fanning anti Asian sentiments by removing Mr Graham under highly suspicious circumstances and must be prepared to take full responsibility if things get out of hand. With due respect to David Arore, he is an untested fresh face in the political arena with little experience in dealing with difficult issues and situations such as this.

We shall wait and see his ability to run the inquiries without fear and favour and to coerce the truth to come out as the committee’s work progresses under his leadership. In the mean time, we can only hope and pray that the common man on the ground can continue to hold his patience while we experiment with inexperienced people at the helm of a crucial investigation exercise of national importance. But for how long he can keep the lid on is another matter?

Source: Post Courier Weekender

What are we doing to eradicate corruption in Papua New Guinea?

Those of us from far and wide who think, speak, act, and rebuke against corruption in Papua New Guinea must join forces to condemn those who are implicated, playing and seek while continue to plunder and steal from the public coffers in broad daylight.

It can't happen over night but if you and I can educate our folks on where Papua New Guinea is heading, they will join us to be a force to reckon. Our illiterate folks in the villages have the kaukau and there is water to feed so they don't care what's going on in Papua New Guinea for that matter.

It frustrates me to say the least that, we don't act and speak boldly against all forms of corruption. As a democratic country, we have every right to speak against what is not right for us and our children. We constantly live in fear for further repercussions while tyrants like somare continue to lead Papua New Guinea like a tyranny.

As elites, I have a gloomy portrait of Papua New Guinea and come to grips to question Papua New Guinea's ultimate destiny. Something that strikes me is, my concern for my siblings and their future while they are young and still in school.

However, eradicating corruption is easily said than done, it has roots like a well-nourished tree with roots that reach as far as its height and roots submerged deep that its so strong, that no matter the strongest tornado will not be able to put it down, its all entangled around so many other roots, that just to get rid of it is just "sheer impossibility".

We wont do it (eradicating corruption), although if we do, we wont leave to see the fruits, nor will our kids nor the grand kids... it will take good portion of a generations to come to realize and cherish what it means to be a corrupt free nation.

Point is we need to change ourselves and then change the people.... corruption-free should be lived practically, and until that is adhered to, we will talk and talk but wont go anywhere.

Let us start now because it's not too late. Be a model citizen for others to follow, by then we will cause a ripple effect that will truly bring change. Union is power and Message is key, let's speak against corruption!

What are we doing to eradicate corruption in Papua New Guinea?

Those of us from far and wide who think, speak, act, and rebuke against corruption in Papua New Guinea must join forces to condemn those who are implicated, playing and seek while continue to plunder and steal from the public coffers in broad daylight.

It can't happen over night but if you and I can educate our folks on where Papua New Guinea is heading, they will join us to be a force to reckon. Our illiterate folks in the villages have the kaukau and there is water to feed so they don't care what's going on in Papua New Guinea for that matter.

It frustrates me to say the least that, we don't act and speak boldly against all forms of corruption. As a democratic country, we have every right to speak against what is not right for us and our children. We constantly live in fear for further repercussions while tyrants like somare continue to lead Papua New Guinea like a tyranny.

As elites, I have a gloomy portrait of Papua New Guinea and come to grips to question Papua New Guinea's ultimate destiny. Something that strikes me is, my concern for my siblings and their future while they are young and still in school.

However, eradicating corruption is easily said than done, it has roots like a well-nourished tree with roots that reach as far as its height and roots submerged deep that its so strong, that no matter the strongest tornado will not be able to put it down, its all entangled around so many other roots, that just to get rid of it is just "sheer impossibility".

We wont do it (eradicating corruption), although if we do, we wont leave to see the fruits, nor will our kids nor the grand kids... it will take good portion of a generations to come to realize and cherish what it means to be a corrupt free nation.

Point is we need to change ourselves and then change the people.... corruption-free should be lived practically, and until that is adhered to, we will talk and talk but wont go anywhere.

Let us start now because it's not too late. Be a model citizen for others to follow, by then we will cause a ripple effect that will truly bring change. Union is power and Message is key, let's speak against corruption!

What are we doing to eradicate corruption in Papua New Guinea?

Those of us from far and wide who think, speak, act, and rebuke against corruption in Papua New Guinea must join forces to condemn those who are implicated, playing and seek while continue to plunder and steal from the public coffers in broad daylight.

It can't happen over night but if you and I can educate our folks on where Papua New Guinea is heading, they will join us to be a force to reckon. Our illiterate folks in the villages have the kaukau and there is water to feed so they don't care what's going on in Papua New Guinea for that matter.

It frustrates me to say the least that, we don't act and speak boldly against all forms of corruption. As a democratic country, we have every right to speak against what is not right for us and our children. We constantly live in fear for further repercussions while tyrants like somare continue to lead Papua New Guinea like a tyranny.

As elites, I have a gloomy portrait of Papua New Guinea and come to grips to question Papua New Guinea's ultimate destiny. Something that strikes me is, my concern for my siblings and their future while they are young and still in school.

However, eradicating corruption is easily said than done, it has roots like a well-nourished tree with roots that reach as far as its height and roots submerged deep that its so strong, that no matter the strongest tornado will not be able to put it down, its all entangled around so many other roots, that just to get rid of it is just "sheer impossibility".

We wont do it (eradicating corruption), although if we do, we wont leave to see the fruits, nor will our kids nor the grand kids... it will take good portion of a generations to come to realize and cherish what it means to be a corrupt free nation.

Point is we need to change ourselves and then change the people.... corruption-free should be lived practically, and until that is adhered to, we will talk and talk but wont go anywhere.

Let us start now because it's not too late. Be a model citizen for others to follow, by then we will cause a ripple effect that will truly bring change. Union is power and Message is key, let's speak against corruption!

Every news from Papua New Guinea becomes increasingly depressing

By Paul Oates

Looking at the news from PNG has become increasingly depressing. When an expensive jet arrives to on Moresby's tarmac to ferry those large, overstuffed shirted 'elites' around and who are lucky enough to toast the arrival with Champagne while at the same time, their country's hospitals, schools and public facilities are non existent, must surely explain what's wrong.

Check out my conjecture in the following article below:

http://asopa.typepad.com/asopa_people/2009/10/has-png-passed-the-point-of-no-return.html

PNG does not have a democratic government any more. It has had an oligarchy for some time that is led by EMPTY (read M.T.) promises. 2012 will see no change to the status quo, given that the current 'kitchen cabinet' and their foreign backers will not allow any change to occur. A plan that pretends to get PNG back to where it should be by 2050 is just a convenient 'pie in the sky' that should fool no one.

There just appears to be no one with enough guts or ability to use what procedures there are currently in place to oust the perpetrators of the current regime. Consequently, what we are really looking at is a typical dictatorship masquerading as a PNG democracy. How has this happened one might well ask? That question usually leads to a blame game where people lash about trying to find someone, anyone really, to blame for their own actions. Prior to the last general election in PNG, there was a clear credibility gap between MT Somare and the Mekere Morauta led team.

Why did Somare retain power? Because he had the power in the first place and used it, by promising wealth and power to the majority who were elected, to keep him in power. It has been postulated elsewhere that this situation is merely the continuation of the traditional PNG 'Big man' culture and that PNG voters just voted for their own bigmen. These 'bigmen' then joined those who promised the best deal.

While ever this stumbling block of traditional culture continues across PNG at the village and Provincial level, there will be no change to what everyone from the Governor General down, acknowledges is the real problem. The real issue will be how to stop a new dictator arising when PNG completely implodes.

This new leader may well be worse than the present one, if that's possible however look at present day Africa. That's what should be worrying everyone including PNG's nearest neighbours right now. Sorry mate. I wish I could offer a better view from where I sit and that's a lot closer than where you are at the moment

Every news from Papua New Guinea becomes increasingly depressing

By Paul Oates

Looking at the news from PNG has become increasingly depressing. When an expensive jet arrives to on Moresby's tarmac to ferry those large, overstuffed shirted 'elites' around and who are lucky enough to toast the arrival with Champagne while at the same time, their country's hospitals, schools and public facilities are non existent, must surely explain what's wrong.

Check out my conjecture in the following article below:

http://asopa.typepad.com/asopa_people/2009/10/has-png-passed-the-point-of-no-return.html

PNG does not have a democratic government any more. It has had an oligarchy for some time that is led by EMPTY (read M.T.) promises. 2012 will see no change to the status quo, given that the current 'kitchen cabinet' and their foreign backers will not allow any change to occur. A plan that pretends to get PNG back to where it should be by 2050 is just a convenient 'pie in the sky' that should fool no one.

There just appears to be no one with enough guts or ability to use what procedures there are currently in place to oust the perpetrators of the current regime. Consequently, what we are really looking at is a typical dictatorship masquerading as a PNG democracy. How has this happened one might well ask? That question usually leads to a blame game where people lash about trying to find someone, anyone really, to blame for their own actions. Prior to the last general election in PNG, there was a clear credibility gap between MT Somare and the Mekere Morauta led team.

Why did Somare retain power? Because he had the power in the first place and used it, by promising wealth and power to the majority who were elected, to keep him in power. It has been postulated elsewhere that this situation is merely the continuation of the traditional PNG 'Big man' culture and that PNG voters just voted for their own bigmen. These 'bigmen' then joined those who promised the best deal.

While ever this stumbling block of traditional culture continues across PNG at the village and Provincial level, there will be no change to what everyone from the Governor General down, acknowledges is the real problem. The real issue will be how to stop a new dictator arising when PNG completely implodes.

This new leader may well be worse than the present one, if that's possible however look at present day Africa. That's what should be worrying everyone including PNG's nearest neighbours right now. Sorry mate. I wish I could offer a better view from where I sit and that's a lot closer than where you are at the moment

Every news from Papua New Guinea becomes increasingly depressing

By Paul Oates

Looking at the news from PNG has become increasingly depressing. When an expensive jet arrives to on Moresby's tarmac to ferry those large, overstuffed shirted 'elites' around and who are lucky enough to toast the arrival with Champagne while at the same time, their country's hospitals, schools and public facilities are non existent, must surely explain what's wrong.

Check out my conjecture in the following article below:

http://asopa.typepad.com/asopa_people/2009/10/has-png-passed-the-point-of-no-return.html

PNG does not have a democratic government any more. It has had an oligarchy for some time that is led by EMPTY (read M.T.) promises. 2012 will see no change to the status quo, given that the current 'kitchen cabinet' and their foreign backers will not allow any change to occur. A plan that pretends to get PNG back to where it should be by 2050 is just a convenient 'pie in the sky' that should fool no one.

There just appears to be no one with enough guts or ability to use what procedures there are currently in place to oust the perpetrators of the current regime. Consequently, what we are really looking at is a typical dictatorship masquerading as a PNG democracy. How has this happened one might well ask? That question usually leads to a blame game where people lash about trying to find someone, anyone really, to blame for their own actions. Prior to the last general election in PNG, there was a clear credibility gap between MT Somare and the Mekere Morauta led team.

Why did Somare retain power? Because he had the power in the first place and used it, by promising wealth and power to the majority who were elected, to keep him in power. It has been postulated elsewhere that this situation is merely the continuation of the traditional PNG 'Big man' culture and that PNG voters just voted for their own bigmen. These 'bigmen' then joined those who promised the best deal.

While ever this stumbling block of traditional culture continues across PNG at the village and Provincial level, there will be no change to what everyone from the Governor General down, acknowledges is the real problem. The real issue will be how to stop a new dictator arising when PNG completely implodes.

This new leader may well be worse than the present one, if that's possible however look at present day Africa. That's what should be worrying everyone including PNG's nearest neighbours right now. Sorry mate. I wish I could offer a better view from where I sit and that's a lot closer than where you are at the moment

PNG People's reactions on their government's Jet

A nonessential item: Only for the affluent

Unedited responses from Papua New Guineans worldwide on the above subject matter.

"I don't see the rationale in seeing the National Alliance (NA) government getting so much pride in the Jet's purchase when we have poor health infrastructures that are in dire need of urgent maintenance.

Even why cant they buy much needed HiTec medical equipments for the use in our hospitals, when majority of our mothers and wantoks (friends) are dying of simple illnesses which could be treated.

Why waste K120 million a jet that has no economic benefit to the nation? I don't see the impact its going to have on the economy at all, or perhaps I'm just blind and naive?. The lucky ones with funds are going overseas to be treated when some who cant afford are dying a painful death. A good portion of the portion don't have the funds to get treatment and we rely on our faithful nurses and doctors, who work tirelessly despite being underpaid.

The point is most of these poor Papua New Guinea folks don't deserve to die like that. A simple medical equipment costs less than UA$3 million (K7.5 Million) which can save thousands and thousands of lives.Its just sickening to see lives which could have been saved are lost because people at the top are filled with pride, greed, selfishness and just basically being IDIOTS.

They don't even have the faintest idea that someone, someone in PNG is dying because of their negligence. I wish the Governor General just dissolves the current government and calls for a fresh election.

Na Enemb Kund O-

Jimmy Mel

" Where was the opposition when NA decided to purchase this "Non-essential" luxury item? What is the oppositions job in parliament? Mekere, when will you stop being a kowtowing pygmie scourging curb and scrapes sunder somares' dinner table?"

- Eric Alom

What is the use of this million $ piece of shit gotta do for the people of PNG? What about buying a big one so everybody have benefit on it? Are you kidding???This is such a stupidity of current leaders not knowing what to do with people's fund. Its waste of time, NA ruling is bringing back again to the old age. Rausim OL!

- Nigel Kama

This statement sums up how out of touch the Pollies are --- “Hip hip hurray, hurray, hurray to the Falcon jet. Does it make us all here proud to be Papua New Guineans this morning,” the Acting Prime Minister Sir Puka said.

- Immanuel Meraveka

I guess we have more homeless people in PNG in terms of many reasons and what the heck the NA government spending much money on buying new jets instead, they should help people providing aids to orphanages, school leavers, poverty life styles etc...rich gets more richer while in lower classes are suffering.

What is going on !!Come on people, awake... See More and lets join hands together for the better. Get ride of all members even in the oppositions and vote fresh people in and lets see. I hope they will bring in new a ideas for change.

- Henry Pawako

PNG People's reactions on their government's Jet

A nonessential item: Only for the affluent

Unedited responses from Papua New Guineans worldwide on the above subject matter.

"I don't see the rationale in seeing the National Alliance (NA) government getting so much pride in the Jet's purchase when we have poor health infrastructures that are in dire need of urgent maintenance.

Even why cant they buy much needed HiTec medical equipments for the use in our hospitals, when majority of our mothers and wantoks (friends) are dying of simple illnesses which could be treated.

Why waste K120 million a jet that has no economic benefit to the nation? I don't see the impact its going to have on the economy at all, or perhaps I'm just blind and naive?. The lucky ones with funds are going overseas to be treated when some who cant afford are dying a painful death. A good portion of the portion don't have the funds to get treatment and we rely on our faithful nurses and doctors, who work tirelessly despite being underpaid.

The point is most of these poor Papua New Guinea folks don't deserve to die like that. A simple medical equipment costs less than UA$3 million (K7.5 Million) which can save thousands and thousands of lives.Its just sickening to see lives which could have been saved are lost because people at the top are filled with pride, greed, selfishness and just basically being IDIOTS.

They don't even have the faintest idea that someone, someone in PNG is dying because of their negligence. I wish the Governor General just dissolves the current government and calls for a fresh election.

Na Enemb Kund O-

Jimmy Mel

" Where was the opposition when NA decided to purchase this "Non-essential" luxury item? What is the oppositions job in parliament? Mekere, when will you stop being a kowtowing pygmie scourging curb and scrapes sunder somares' dinner table?"

- Eric Alom

What is the use of this million $ piece of shit gotta do for the people of PNG? What about buying a big one so everybody have benefit on it? Are you kidding???This is such a stupidity of current leaders not knowing what to do with people's fund. Its waste of time, NA ruling is bringing back again to the old age. Rausim OL!

- Nigel Kama

This statement sums up how out of touch the Pollies are --- “Hip hip hurray, hurray, hurray to the Falcon jet. Does it make us all here proud to be Papua New Guineans this morning,” the Acting Prime Minister Sir Puka said.

- Immanuel Meraveka

I guess we have more homeless people in PNG in terms of many reasons and what the heck the NA government spending much money on buying new jets instead, they should help people providing aids to orphanages, school leavers, poverty life styles etc...rich gets more richer while in lower classes are suffering.

What is going on !!Come on people, awake... See More and lets join hands together for the better. Get ride of all members even in the oppositions and vote fresh people in and lets see. I hope they will bring in new a ideas for change.

- Henry Pawako

PNG People's reactions on their government's Jet

A nonessential item: Only for the affluent

Unedited responses from Papua New Guineans worldwide on the above subject matter.

"I don't see the rationale in seeing the National Alliance (NA) government getting so much pride in the Jet's purchase when we have poor health infrastructures that are in dire need of urgent maintenance.

Even why cant they buy much needed HiTec medical equipments for the use in our hospitals, when majority of our mothers and wantoks (friends) are dying of simple illnesses which could be treated.

Why waste K120 million a jet that has no economic benefit to the nation? I don't see the impact its going to have on the economy at all, or perhaps I'm just blind and naive?. The lucky ones with funds are going overseas to be treated when some who cant afford are dying a painful death. A good portion of the portion don't have the funds to get treatment and we rely on our faithful nurses and doctors, who work tirelessly despite being underpaid.

The point is most of these poor Papua New Guinea folks don't deserve to die like that. A simple medical equipment costs less than UA$3 million (K7.5 Million) which can save thousands and thousands of lives.Its just sickening to see lives which could have been saved are lost because people at the top are filled with pride, greed, selfishness and just basically being IDIOTS.

They don't even have the faintest idea that someone, someone in PNG is dying because of their negligence. I wish the Governor General just dissolves the current government and calls for a fresh election.

Na Enemb Kund O-

Jimmy Mel

" Where was the opposition when NA decided to purchase this "Non-essential" luxury item? What is the oppositions job in parliament? Mekere, when will you stop being a kowtowing pygmie scourging curb and scrapes sunder somares' dinner table?"

- Eric Alom

What is the use of this million $ piece of shit gotta do for the people of PNG? What about buying a big one so everybody have benefit on it? Are you kidding???This is such a stupidity of current leaders not knowing what to do with people's fund. Its waste of time, NA ruling is bringing back again to the old age. Rausim OL!

- Nigel Kama

This statement sums up how out of touch the Pollies are --- “Hip hip hurray, hurray, hurray to the Falcon jet. Does it make us all here proud to be Papua New Guineans this morning,” the Acting Prime Minister Sir Puka said.

- Immanuel Meraveka

I guess we have more homeless people in PNG in terms of many reasons and what the heck the NA government spending much money on buying new jets instead, they should help people providing aids to orphanages, school leavers, poverty life styles etc...rich gets more richer while in lower classes are suffering.

What is going on !!Come on people, awake... See More and lets join hands together for the better. Get ride of all members even in the oppositions and vote fresh people in and lets see. I hope they will bring in new a ideas for change.

- Henry Pawako

A nonessential item: Only for the affluent

This is a reckless spending using the Papua New Guinea taxpayers' kinas on an aircraft to be used only by the well-to-do while the majority of the people of Papua New Guinea live in poverty and under crumbling infrastructure.

The government's refusal to hear public outbursts and clear motives to purchase such sumptuousness plane depicts a government which is hellbent on corruption flanked by scandals. How can Papua New Guinea develop when leaders give their backs to people when they say something on the monies they contribute to the government's purse year in and year out.
We got more questions than answers on the source of financing this luxury for few well-to-do. Where did the money come from? Who met half of the costs? How will it be economically viable? Was it fully paid for? For how long will the PNG taxpayers meet the cost if it was bought on a loan? etc...The people of PNG need to know some of the answers to these questions.

One hundred twenty million kina ($35M) would have done wonders for improving road conditions and other infrastructure establishments; for example, in places like Pangia in Southern Highlands, West Kambia in Western Highlands, Menyamia in Morobe, Lufa in Eastern Highlands, etc... if the government had the people's interests ahead of theirs in using these public monies. I would only dream of having such vital but necessary services for our village folks but wouldn't see our folks having them for decades.

Recycled leaders like somare and a bunch of others who share his corrupt deals and prey on public purses need to leave. The only way to do this, is to rally with like minded Papua New Guineans using all available avenues, ie; face book, emails, editorials, word of mouth, public boards, blogs, etc...so that we speak the same langauage come 2012. In a country of over eight hundred different languages, it is possible for us to speak one language. Yes, We Can!

A nonessential item: Only for the affluent

This is a reckless spending using the Papua New Guinea taxpayers' kinas on an aircraft to be used only by the well-to-do while the majority of the people of Papua New Guinea live in poverty and under crumbling infrastructure.

The government's refusal to hear public outbursts and clear motives to purchase such sumptuousness plane depicts a government which is hellbent on corruption flanked by scandals. How can Papua New Guinea develop when leaders give their backs to people when they say something on the monies they contribute to the government's purse year in and year out.
We got more questions than answers on the source of financing this luxury for few well-to-do. Where did the money come from? Who met half of the costs? How will it be economically viable? Was it fully paid for? For how long will the PNG taxpayers meet the cost if it was bought on a loan? etc...The people of PNG need to know some of the answers to these questions.

One hundred twenty million kina ($35M) would have done wonders for improving road conditions and other infrastructure establishments; for example, in places like Pangia in Southern Highlands, West Kambia in Western Highlands, Menyamia in Morobe, Lufa in Eastern Highlands, etc... if the government had the people's interests ahead of theirs in using these public monies. I would only dream of having such vital but necessary services for our village folks but wouldn't see our folks having them for decades.

Recycled leaders like somare and a bunch of others who share his corrupt deals and prey on public purses need to leave. The only way to do this, is to rally with like minded Papua New Guineans using all available avenues, ie; face book, emails, editorials, word of mouth, public boards, blogs, etc...so that we speak the same langauage come 2012. In a country of over eight hundred different languages, it is possible for us to speak one language. Yes, We Can!

A nonessential item: Only for the affluent

This is a reckless spending using the Papua New Guinea taxpayers' kinas on an aircraft to be used only by the well-to-do while the majority of the people of Papua New Guinea live in poverty and under crumbling infrastructure.

The government's refusal to hear public outbursts and clear motives to purchase such sumptuousness plane depicts a government which is hellbent on corruption flanked by scandals. How can Papua New Guinea develop when leaders give their backs to people when they say something on the monies they contribute to the government's purse year in and year out.
We got more questions than answers on the source of financing this luxury for few well-to-do. Where did the money come from? Who met half of the costs? How will it be economically viable? Was it fully paid for? For how long will the PNG taxpayers meet the cost if it was bought on a loan? etc...The people of PNG need to know some of the answers to these questions.

One hundred twenty million kina ($35M) would have done wonders for improving road conditions and other infrastructure establishments; for example, in places like Pangia in Southern Highlands, West Kambia in Western Highlands, Menyamia in Morobe, Lufa in Eastern Highlands, etc... if the government had the people's interests ahead of theirs in using these public monies. I would only dream of having such vital but necessary services for our village folks but wouldn't see our folks having them for decades.

Recycled leaders like somare and a bunch of others who share his corrupt deals and prey on public purses need to leave. The only way to do this, is to rally with like minded Papua New Guineans using all available avenues, ie; face book, emails, editorials, word of mouth, public boards, blogs, etc...so that we speak the same langauage come 2012. In a country of over eight hundred different languages, it is possible for us to speak one language. Yes, We Can!

Somare's Time is Up and Over

By Joseph Turian

As the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Mendi Hospital, I support good governance and good government. However, my opinion is that the current performance by the government and especially the behaviour of many of the government ministers does not convince me of their seriousness in managing this nation and its wealth for the common good of all Papua New Guinea citizens. Their effort to stamp out corrupt practices in government and government officers is appalling.

I have a lot of respect for the Hon Prime Minister as the father of the Nation, God bless him and his family. I must be honest to say that the father of the Nation’s time is up and he should retire gracefully now or at the end of his current term. We must now cultivate in new leader to lead our Nation. God bless who ever that might be.

I am a Papua New Guinean first and my province of origin is second. My wish, is for a good leader to manage Papua New Guinea for all of us and with those who come to work for us, live with us and visit us.
The removal of K200, 000,000.00 ($30m) from Health dept for health projects in Papua New Guinea is a shame and reflects the insensitivity of the Government to address the health infrastructure needs of the Hospital and rural health. This could have been down competently by the Department of Health.

We had development funds for Redevelopment of Mendi Hospital for K6.4 million and now we have to put up a fight to get it from the National Planning office. Why must I fight to get something that needs to be provided by my own government? This money is rightfully for Mendi Hospital.

The redevelopment plan was completed and this was going to be given to a contract only to be removed on November, 9th 2008. The National Planning & Management office do not have the capacity to assist Hospitals throughout the country.

When I see the gross abuse and negligence by the Government ministers and their cronies at the National Planning office for their own good, it saddens me and hurts me to my bone marrows.

God Bless PNG

Joseph Turian
Chief Executive Officer
Mendi Hospital

*** Joe,

Thanks for your thoughts.

I have been vocal on such issues and have written extensively to the editorials of the papers about corrupt leadership and their practices in some of the highest offices in Papua New Guinea.

While you have some respect for the somare family, I don't have any respect for the so called father of the nation because somare had never done anything to alleviate the level of poverty and infrastructure developments in our rural areas. Our villages still lack major infrastructure developments. For these motives, somare doesn't need to be at the helm remote controlling the country (PNG) like it is a family business.

Therefore, he and his cohorts need to be kicked in the butt so that NA will have no traces on the political scene in 2012 and beyond.I thank you and other CEOs of our major hospitals to work tirelessly under tiring conditions to keep the hospitals going so that our rural folks can get the care they needed. Good job and continue to fight for what is ours.

I think what you expressed is a scenario that portrays our leaders' level of ignorance and stupidity toward the people they represent. As you rightfully pointed out, unless we put in new bunch of leaders who put their people's interests ahead of theirs, Papua New Guinea will not develop in all aspects.

God bless you and your wantoks (friends) in Mendi and PNG.

Somare's Time is Up and Over

By Joseph Turian

As the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Mendi Hospital, I support good governance and good government. However, my opinion is that the current performance by the government and especially the behaviour of many of the government ministers does not convince me of their seriousness in managing this nation and its wealth for the common good of all Papua New Guinea citizens. Their effort to stamp out corrupt practices in government and government officers is appalling.

I have a lot of respect for the Hon Prime Minister as the father of the Nation, God bless him and his family. I must be honest to say that the father of the Nation’s time is up and he should retire gracefully now or at the end of his current term. We must now cultivate in new leader to lead our Nation. God bless who ever that might be.

I am a Papua New Guinean first and my province of origin is second. My wish, is for a good leader to manage Papua New Guinea for all of us and with those who come to work for us, live with us and visit us.
The removal of K200, 000,000.00 ($30m) from Health dept for health projects in Papua New Guinea is a shame and reflects the insensitivity of the Government to address the health infrastructure needs of the Hospital and rural health. This could have been down competently by the Department of Health.

We had development funds for Redevelopment of Mendi Hospital for K6.4 million and now we have to put up a fight to get it from the National Planning office. Why must I fight to get something that needs to be provided by my own government? This money is rightfully for Mendi Hospital.

The redevelopment plan was completed and this was going to be given to a contract only to be removed on November, 9th 2008. The National Planning & Management office do not have the capacity to assist Hospitals throughout the country.

When I see the gross abuse and negligence by the Government ministers and their cronies at the National Planning office for their own good, it saddens me and hurts me to my bone marrows.

God Bless PNG

Joseph Turian
Chief Executive Officer
Mendi Hospital

*** Joe,

Thanks for your thoughts.

I have been vocal on such issues and have written extensively to the editorials of the papers about corrupt leadership and their practices in some of the highest offices in Papua New Guinea.

While you have some respect for the somare family, I don't have any respect for the so called father of the nation because somare had never done anything to alleviate the level of poverty and infrastructure developments in our rural areas. Our villages still lack major infrastructure developments. For these motives, somare doesn't need to be at the helm remote controlling the country (PNG) like it is a family business.

Therefore, he and his cohorts need to be kicked in the butt so that NA will have no traces on the political scene in 2012 and beyond.I thank you and other CEOs of our major hospitals to work tirelessly under tiring conditions to keep the hospitals going so that our rural folks can get the care they needed. Good job and continue to fight for what is ours.

I think what you expressed is a scenario that portrays our leaders' level of ignorance and stupidity toward the people they represent. As you rightfully pointed out, unless we put in new bunch of leaders who put their people's interests ahead of theirs, Papua New Guinea will not develop in all aspects.

God bless you and your wantoks (friends) in Mendi and PNG.

Somare's Time is Up and Over

By Joseph Turian

As the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Mendi Hospital, I support good governance and good government. However, my opinion is that the current performance by the government and especially the behaviour of many of the government ministers does not convince me of their seriousness in managing this nation and its wealth for the common good of all Papua New Guinea citizens. Their effort to stamp out corrupt practices in government and government officers is appalling.

I have a lot of respect for the Hon Prime Minister as the father of the Nation, God bless him and his family. I must be honest to say that the father of the Nation’s time is up and he should retire gracefully now or at the end of his current term. We must now cultivate in new leader to lead our Nation. God bless who ever that might be.

I am a Papua New Guinean first and my province of origin is second. My wish, is for a good leader to manage Papua New Guinea for all of us and with those who come to work for us, live with us and visit us.
The removal of K200, 000,000.00 ($30m) from Health dept for health projects in Papua New Guinea is a shame and reflects the insensitivity of the Government to address the health infrastructure needs of the Hospital and rural health. This could have been down competently by the Department of Health.

We had development funds for Redevelopment of Mendi Hospital for K6.4 million and now we have to put up a fight to get it from the National Planning office. Why must I fight to get something that needs to be provided by my own government? This money is rightfully for Mendi Hospital.

The redevelopment plan was completed and this was going to be given to a contract only to be removed on November, 9th 2008. The National Planning & Management office do not have the capacity to assist Hospitals throughout the country.

When I see the gross abuse and negligence by the Government ministers and their cronies at the National Planning office for their own good, it saddens me and hurts me to my bone marrows.

God Bless PNG

Joseph Turian
Chief Executive Officer
Mendi Hospital

*** Joe,

Thanks for your thoughts.

I have been vocal on such issues and have written extensively to the editorials of the papers about corrupt leadership and their practices in some of the highest offices in Papua New Guinea.

While you have some respect for the somare family, I don't have any respect for the so called father of the nation because somare had never done anything to alleviate the level of poverty and infrastructure developments in our rural areas. Our villages still lack major infrastructure developments. For these motives, somare doesn't need to be at the helm remote controlling the country (PNG) like it is a family business.

Therefore, he and his cohorts need to be kicked in the butt so that NA will have no traces on the political scene in 2012 and beyond.I thank you and other CEOs of our major hospitals to work tirelessly under tiring conditions to keep the hospitals going so that our rural folks can get the care they needed. Good job and continue to fight for what is ours.

I think what you expressed is a scenario that portrays our leaders' level of ignorance and stupidity toward the people they represent. As you rightfully pointed out, unless we put in new bunch of leaders who put their people's interests ahead of theirs, Papua New Guinea will not develop in all aspects.

God bless you and your wantoks (friends) in Mendi and PNG.

Kandep by-election in Southern Highlands Province

Electoral Commissioner Andrew Trawen today announced that he has decided to delay the by-election for the Kandep Open seat by one week.

“The tentative election dates approved by the Governor General which I announced in Mt Hagen two weeks ago are still tentative as such until we (Electoral Commission) are satisfied that all arrangements for the by-election are in order,” Mr. Trawen said.

He says these arrangements include the release of K4.5 million funding by the Treasury department, gazettal of the appointment of three Electoral Commission officials tasked to run the by-election and the movement of necessary logistics such as ballot boxes and ballot papers to Kandep District.

Other arrangements, the Electoral Commission says, need to be in place are the movement of electoral officers who will conduct polling and counting to Kandep and security personnel arrangements to be put in place by the Police Commissioner, Mr. Gari Baki.

Mr. Trawen says until the Commission is satisfied that all these arrangements are in place, the Kandep by-election will proceed. He added that the delay will also allow the Electoral Commission to know the result of the notice of withdrawal of the Supreme Court review application filed by ousted member Don Polye’s lawyers which is scheduled for hearing on Thursday 10 September.

Mr. Trawen says the Electoral Commission has the duty and responsibility under the Constitution to conduct national elections and by-elections in PNG in accordance with the Organic Law on National and Local-level Government Elections.

Section 74 of the Organic Law on National and Local Level Government Elections clearly states that in case of a by-election, the Head of State acting with and in accordance with the advice of the Electoral Commission, shall as soon as practicable after the vacancy occurs, issue his writ for the election of a new member. The revised program for the Kandep Open seat by-election to be sanctioned by Government House is:

Issue of Writs: Thursday 17th September, 2009 (4:00 pm)

Nomination Closes: Wednesday 23rd September, 2009 (4:00 pm)

Polling Starts: Monday 16th November, 2009

Polling Ends: Friday 20th November, 2009

Return of Writs on or before: Friday 11th December, 2009

Meanwhile, Mr. Trawen has brushed aside comments by one David Ulg Ketepa in last Thursday’s Post-Courier newspaper viewpoint on the Kandep by-election branding them as mere “false impressions” by an ignorant person who is not up to date with laws and events.

“I did not announce the dates for the Kandep by-election within days…I did so after almost two weeks and after studying the National Court’s decision,” Mr. Trawen said.

Mr. Ketepa claims that the Kandep by-election would set a precedent as the dates were announced within days after the court of disputed returns nullified Mr. Polye’s 2007 election win.

On the Madang and Western Highlands Provincial seats, Commissioner Trawen has already explained that the matters were still before courts and it would be contempt if the Commission went ahead and announced the dates for by-elections.

Mr. Trawen says he is concerned that people do not understand the legal issues and implications concerning court-ordered by-elections, yet they make unsubstantiated media statements that serve no purpose but only cause more confusion.

APPROVED FOR RELEASE

ANDREW S. TRAWEN, CMG, MBE

ELECTORAL COMMISSIONER

06 TH OCTOBER, 2009

*** Mr. Trawen didn't address the questions I raised in my letter. The Western Highlands and Madang Regional seats were declared null and void. Why is it taking too long for by-elections for these seats? It seems to me that Mr. Trawen is a puppet dancing to the tunes played by the National Alliance led government.

If we don't see these regional seats in a by-election soon, we would confirm that Mr. Trawen is not only a puppet but rather a window-dresser at the Electoral Commission office. Mr. Trawen's reactions imply that so long as the National Alliance led regime is at the helm, they can manipulate the laws of Papua New Guinea to suit their hidden agendas.

Is that the scenario you're trying to show the six million people of Papua New Guinea?