United Resources Party Inc, United Resources Party Inc. P. O Box 874 Down Town Port Moresby, Port Moresby (2026)

02/09/2026

THE ARCHITECT BEHIND PNG LNG’S FUTURE
_The Strategic Decisions That Shaped PNG’s LNG Resources Future_

The untold story of PNG’sLNG development should be understood beyond ceremonies, inaugurations and political headlines. At its foundation were tough strategic decisions that shaped:
- Where PNG’sLNG be processed including Value creation.
- Who would benefit from the resources spinoffs?
- How much economic value would remain within PNG?
- Where employment,investment & business opportunities would be created?
- What resource legacy would be secured for our future generations?

Among the key figures associated with that strategic direction was Hon. William Mara Duma LLB,LLM,CMG, MP ,former minister responsible for Petroleum & Energy current Minister for State-Owned Enterprises and URP Party Leader. His critical foresight & knowledge contributed to PNG’s petroleum and energy sector deserves to be examined through the lens of policy, national interest and long-term economic strategy—not merely partisan politics.

At a critical juncture in the country’s petroleum history, the question was not simply whether PNG possessed commercially viable gas. The much larger question was; What PNG would do with that resource? A particularly significant decision attributed to his tenure was his brave wisdom to strongly oppose the proposed development pathway involving Chevron Niugini Limited, a subsidiary of the United States-based Chevron Corporation, under which PNG gas was to be pipeline to North Queensland, Australia, for further processing & value extraction.

The argument surrounding Duma’s intervention is that he recognized a fundamental national-interest issue: If PNG’s gas were processed offshore, much of the associated employment, industrial activity, contracting and downstream economic opportunities could also have been created offshore rather within PNG shores.

Hon.Duma strongly insisted on developing PNG’s gas resources on our shores for a LNG processing model represented a fundamental assertion of national economic sovereignty. Chevron subsequently exited PNG the very next day, with its assets later acquired by Oil Search, while the country continued along a different pathway of processing and extracting its values including benefits within the shores of PNG as it’s today.

Its significance lies in the development philosophy behind it, which was carefully crafted with the knowledge, wisdom, and foresight. It was fundamentally a debate about economic architecture and national participation.

Today, the fruits of PNG's LNG industry are visible across the country—in government revenues, infrastructure, businesses, employment, landowner benefits including Hela, Central & Western Provinces participation.

The deeper lesson, however, is greater than LNG itself: That single, consequential decision by Hon. William Duma helped lay an important foundation for the evolution of PNG’s LNG industry and set a strategic blueprint for future resource development. By insisting on a model that prioritized greater value creation within PNG, his leadership helped demonstrate that our natural resources can generate benefits beyond extraction and export—through employment, local businesses, infrastructure, investment and broader economic participation.

The emergence of PNG LNG, Papua LNG, Western and other major resource projects stands as part of that evolving legacy.

_True leaders of vision and foresight are not easily swayed by money, influence or short-term interests. They possess the courage and conviction to make difficult decisions for the greater good—safeguarding their nation’s interests, strengthening its economic sovereignty, and protecting the prosperity and wellbeing of future generations._

File Pic supplied.

Hon Jason Peter member for Huon Gulf, MP
Hon. Jelta Wong MP
PNG Political Limelights
Robert Mawe

28/08/2026

DUMA’S POWERFUL MESSAGE ON BOUGAINVILLE: CONSTITUTION, UNITY & RESPONSIBLE LEADERSHIP.

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Hon. William Mara Duma has demonstrated why he is regarded as one of PNG’s experienced political thinkers through his parliamentary statement on Bougainville’s independence.

His message is not about denying Bougainville’s aspirations, but about respecting the Constitution, the rule of law and the proper parliamentary process. While the 2019 referendum delivered an overwhelming vote for independence, the referendum itself was not the final legal step. Any change to PNG’s constitutional structure must be addressed through the constitutional and parliamentary framework.

Duma’s argument highlights an important principle: political emotions and slogans cannot replace constitutional procedures.

Bougainville’s unique history and peace process deserve recognition, but so too do the broader implications for a nation of more than 800 languages, cultures and communities.

PNG’s greatest achievement has been bringing this extraordinary diversity together under one sovereign Constitution.

National unity does not mean denying our differences; it means managing those differences through law, dialogue, mutual respect and responsible leadership.

Whether one agrees with Duma’s position or not, his intervention has placed the constitutional question firmly before the nation and Parliament.

Bougainville deserves respect. Diversity deserves respect. The Constitution deserves respect. And Papua New Guinea deserves leadership capable of thinking beyond today’s headlines and considering the consequences for generations to come.

That is the essence of Duma’s message: unity through constitutional democracy, not division through political rhetoric.

Enclsd: Minister Duma's press statement.

Hon Jason Peter member for Huon Gulf, MP Hon. Jelta Wong MP PNG Political Limelights
Western Highlands Province Hon. Richard Maru, MP

27/08/2026

𝖯𝖭𝖦 𝖢𝗈𝗆𝗆𝗂𝗍𝗍𝖾𝖽 𝗍𝗈 𝖣𝗂𝗀𝗂𝗍𝖺𝗅 𝖨𝗇𝖿𝗋𝖺𝗌𝗍𝗋𝗎𝖼𝗍𝗎𝗋𝖾 𝖣𝖾𝗏𝖾𝗅𝗈𝗉𝗆𝖾𝗇𝗍: 𝖣𝗎𝗆𝖺

𝟤𝟧/𝟢𝟪/𝟤𝟢𝟤𝟨

𝖲𝗍𝖺𝗍𝖾 𝖤𝗇𝗍𝖾𝗋𝗉𝗋𝗂𝗌𝖾 𝖬𝗂𝗇𝗂𝗌𝗍𝖾𝗋 𝖶𝗂𝗅𝗅𝗂𝖺𝗆 𝖣𝗎𝗆𝖺 𝗁𝖺𝗌 𝖾𝗆𝗉𝗁𝖺𝗌𝗂𝗓𝖾𝖽 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖼𝗈𝗆𝗆𝗂𝗍𝗆𝖾𝗇𝗍 𝗈𝖿 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖼𝗈𝗎𝗇𝗍𝗋𝗒 𝗍𝗈 𝖾𝗌𝗍𝖺𝖻𝗅𝗂𝗌𝗁𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝖺 𝗋𝗈𝖻𝗎𝗌𝗍 𝖽𝗂𝗀𝗂𝗍𝖺𝗅 𝗂𝗇𝖿𝗋𝖺𝗌𝗍𝗋𝗎𝖼𝗍𝗎𝗋𝖾 𝖾𝗌𝗌𝖾𝗇𝗍𝗂𝖺𝗅 𝖿𝗈𝗋 𝖺 𝗆𝗈𝖽𝖾𝗋𝗇 𝖾𝖼𝗈𝗇𝗈𝗆𝗒 𝖿𝗈𝗅𝗅𝗈𝗐𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗅𝖺𝗎𝗇𝖼𝗁 𝗈𝖿 𝖺 𝗌𝗈𝗏𝖾𝗋𝖾𝗂𝗀𝗇 𝖼𝗅𝗈𝗎𝖽 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖺𝗋𝗍𝗂𝖿𝗂𝖼𝗂𝖺𝗅 𝗂𝗇𝗍𝖾𝗅𝗅𝗂𝗀𝖾𝗇𝖼𝖾 (𝖠𝖨) 𝖽𝖺𝗍𝖺 𝖼𝖾𝗇𝗍𝖾𝗋.

𝖣𝗎𝗋𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗎𝗇𝗏𝖾𝗂𝗅𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗈𝖿 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖪𝗎𝗆𝗎𝗅 𝖢𝗅𝗈𝗎𝖽 𝖨𝗇𝖿𝗂𝗇𝗂𝗍𝗒 𝖺𝗍 𝖳𝗁𝖾 𝖲𝗁𝖾𝗋𝖺𝗍𝗈𝗇 𝖯𝗈𝗋𝗍 𝖬𝗈𝗋𝖾𝗌𝖻𝗒 𝖲𝗍𝖺𝗇𝗅𝖾𝗒 𝖧𝗈𝗍𝖾𝗅 & 𝖲𝗎𝗂𝗍𝖾 𝗈𝗇 𝖥𝗋𝗂𝖽𝖺𝗒, 𝖣𝗎𝗆𝖺 𝗁𝗂𝗀𝗁𝗅𝗂𝗀𝗁𝗍𝖾𝖽 𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗍 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝖼𝖾𝗇𝗍𝖾𝗋 𝗉𝗈𝗌𝗂𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇𝗌 𝖯𝖭𝖦 𝗍𝗈 𝗌𝖾𝖼𝗎𝗋𝖾𝗅𝗒 𝗌𝗍𝗈𝗋𝖾 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗉𝗋𝗈𝖼𝖾𝗌𝗌 𝖼𝗋𝗂𝗍𝗂𝖼𝖺𝗅 𝖽𝖺𝗍𝖺 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗇 𝗂𝗍𝗌 𝗈𝗐𝗇 𝗌𝗈𝗏𝖾𝗋𝖾𝗂𝗀𝗇 𝗃𝗎𝗋𝗂𝗌𝖽𝗂𝖼𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇.

"𝖳𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝗂𝗇𝗂𝗍𝗂𝖺𝗍𝗂𝗏𝖾 𝗐𝗂𝗅𝗅 𝖾𝗇𝗁𝖺𝗇𝖼𝖾 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖼𝗈𝗇𝖿𝗂𝖽𝖾𝗇𝖼𝖾 𝗈𝖿 𝗈𝗎𝗋 𝗂𝗇𝗌𝗍𝗂𝗍𝗎𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇𝗌, 𝖾𝗇𝗌𝗎𝗋𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗍 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗂𝗋 𝗂𝗇𝖿𝗈𝗋𝗆𝖺𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇 𝗂𝗌 𝗆𝖺𝗇𝖺𝗀𝖾𝖽 𝗅𝗈𝖼𝖺𝗅𝗅𝗒 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗂𝗇 𝗅𝗂𝗇𝖾 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁 𝗇𝖺𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇𝖺𝗅 𝗀𝗈𝗏𝖾𝗋𝗇𝖺𝗇𝖼𝖾 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗌𝖾𝖼𝗎𝗋𝗂𝗍𝗒 𝗌𝗍𝖺𝗇𝖽𝖺𝗋𝖽𝗌," 𝗁𝖾 𝗌𝗍𝖺𝗍𝖾𝖽.

"𝖨𝗍 𝗐𝗂𝗅𝗅 𝖺𝗅𝗌𝗈 𝗋𝖾𝖽𝗎𝖼𝖾 𝗈𝗎𝗋 𝖽𝖾𝗉𝖾𝗇𝖽𝖾𝗇𝖼𝗒 𝗈𝗇 𝖿𝗈𝗋𝖾𝗂𝗀𝗇 𝗂𝗇𝖿𝗋𝖺𝗌𝗍𝗋𝗎𝖼𝗍𝗎𝗋𝖾, 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗋𝖾𝖻𝗒 𝖻𝗈𝗅𝗌𝗍𝖾𝗋𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗋𝖾𝗌𝗂𝗅𝗂𝖾𝗇𝖼𝖾 𝗈𝖿 𝗈𝗎𝗋 𝖽𝗂𝗀𝗂𝗍𝖺𝗅 𝖾𝖼𝗈𝗇𝗈𝗆𝗒."

𝖣𝗎𝗆𝖺 𝗋𝖾𝖼𝗈𝗀𝗇𝗂𝗓𝖾𝖽 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖼𝗈𝗇𝗍𝗋𝗂𝖻𝗎𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇𝗌 𝗈𝖿 𝖢𝗅𝗈𝗎𝖽𝖲𝗂𝗀𝗆𝖺, 𝖧𝖯𝖤, 𝖭𝖵𝖨𝖣𝖨𝖠, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗈𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗋 𝗍𝖾𝖼𝗁𝗇𝗈𝗅𝗈𝗀𝗒 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗂𝗆𝗉𝗅𝖾𝗆𝖾𝗇𝗍𝖺𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇 𝗉𝖺𝗋𝗍𝗇𝖾𝗋𝗌 𝗐𝗁𝗈𝗌𝖾 𝖾𝗑𝗉𝖾𝗋𝗍𝗂𝗌𝖾 𝗉𝗅𝖺𝗒𝖾𝖽 𝖺 𝗉𝗂𝗏𝗈𝗍𝖺𝗅 𝗋𝗈𝗅𝖾 𝗂𝗇 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝗂𝗇𝗂𝗍𝗂𝖺𝗍𝗂𝗏𝖾.

"𝖦𝗈𝗏𝖾𝗋𝗇𝗆𝖾𝗇𝗍 𝖺𝗀𝖾𝗇𝖼𝗂𝖾𝗌 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖻𝗎𝗌𝗂𝗇𝖾𝗌𝗌𝖾𝗌 𝗇𝖾𝖾𝖽 𝖺𝗌𝗌𝗎𝗋𝖺𝗇𝖼𝖾 𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗍 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗂𝗋 𝖽𝖺𝗍𝖺 𝗂𝗌 𝗌𝖾𝖼𝗎𝗋𝖾, 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗂𝗋 𝗌𝖾𝗋𝗏𝗂𝖼𝖾𝗌 𝖺𝗋𝖾 𝗋𝖾𝗌𝗂𝗅𝗂𝖾𝗇𝗍, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗆𝖺𝗇𝖺𝗀𝖾𝗆𝖾𝗇𝗍 𝗈𝖿 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗉𝗅𝖺𝗍𝖿𝗈𝗋𝗆 𝖺𝖽𝗁𝖾𝗋𝖾𝗌 𝗍𝗈 𝗉𝗋𝗈𝖿𝖾𝗌𝗌𝗂𝗈𝗇𝖺𝗅𝗂𝗌𝗆, 𝗍𝗋𝖺𝗇𝗌𝗉𝖺𝗋𝖾𝗇𝖼𝗒, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖽𝗂𝗌𝖼𝗂𝗉𝗅𝗂𝗇𝖾," 𝗁𝖾 𝖿𝗎𝗋𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗋 𝗇𝗈𝗍𝖾𝖽.

"𝖮𝗎𝗋 𝖼𝗈𝗇𝗍𝗂𝗇𝗎𝗈𝗎𝗌 𝗂𝗇𝗏𝖾𝗌𝗍𝗆𝖾𝗇𝗍 𝗂𝗇 𝗈𝗎𝗋 𝗐𝗈𝗋𝗄𝖿𝗈𝗋𝖼𝖾 𝗂𝗌 𝖺𝗅𝗌𝗈 𝖼𝗋𝗎𝖼𝗂𝖺𝗅."

𝖧𝖾 𝖺𝖽𝖽𝖾𝖽, "𝖪𝗎𝗆𝗎𝗅 𝖢𝗅𝗈𝗎𝖽 𝖨𝗇𝖿𝗂𝗇𝗂𝗍𝗒 𝗂𝗌 𝗉𝗈𝗂𝗌𝖾𝖽 𝗍𝗈 𝖻𝖾𝖼𝗈𝗆𝖾 𝖺 𝖽𝗋𝗂𝗏𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝖿𝗈𝗋𝖼𝖾 𝖿𝗈𝗋 𝖻𝗋𝗈𝖺𝖽𝖾𝗋 𝖾𝖼𝗈𝗇𝗈𝗆𝗂𝖼 𝗈𝗉𝗉𝗈𝗋𝗍𝗎𝗇𝗂𝗍𝗂𝖾𝗌."

"𝖥𝗈𝗋 𝗌𝗆𝖺𝗅𝗅 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗆𝖾𝖽𝗂𝗎𝗆-𝗌𝗂𝗓𝖾𝖽 𝖾𝗇𝗍𝖾𝗋𝗉𝗋𝗂𝗌𝖾𝗌, 𝖼𝗅𝗈𝗎𝖽 𝗍𝖾𝖼𝗁𝗇𝗈𝗅𝗈𝗀𝗒 𝗐𝗂𝗅𝗅 𝗆𝖺𝗄𝖾 𝖺𝖽𝗏𝖺𝗇𝖼𝖾𝖽 𝖽𝗂𝗀𝗂𝗍𝖺𝗅 𝗌𝗒𝗌𝗍𝖾𝗆𝗌 𝗆𝗈𝗋𝖾 𝖺𝖼𝖼𝖾𝗌𝗌𝗂𝖻𝗅𝖾. 𝖥𝗈𝗋 𝖾𝗌𝗍𝖺𝖻𝗅𝗂𝗌𝗁𝖾𝖽 𝖻𝗎𝗌𝗂𝗇𝖾𝗌𝗌𝖾𝗌, 𝗂𝗍 𝗐𝗂𝗅𝗅 𝖾𝗇𝗁𝖺𝗇𝖼𝖾 𝗋𝖾𝗌𝗂𝗅𝗂𝖾𝗇𝖼𝖾 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖺𝖼𝖼𝖾𝗅𝖾𝗋𝖺𝗍𝖾 𝗂𝗇𝗇𝗈𝗏𝖺𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇. 𝖥𝗈𝗋 𝗀𝗈𝗏𝖾𝗋𝗇𝗆𝖾𝗇𝗍, 𝗂𝗍 𝗐𝗂𝗅𝗅 𝖿𝖺𝖼𝗂𝗅𝗂𝗍𝖺𝗍𝖾 𝗆𝗈𝗋𝖾 𝗌𝖾𝖼𝗎𝗋𝖾 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖼𝗈𝗈𝗋𝖽𝗂𝗇𝖺𝗍𝖾𝖽 𝖽𝗂𝗀𝗂𝗍𝖺𝗅 𝗌𝖾𝗋𝗏𝗂𝖼𝖾𝗌."

𝖣𝗎𝗆𝖺 𝖾𝗆𝗉𝗁𝖺𝗌𝗂𝗓𝖾𝖽 𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗍 𝖽𝖺𝗍𝖺 𝗁𝖺𝗌 𝖻𝖾𝖼𝗈𝗆𝖾 𝗈𝗇𝖾 𝗈𝖿 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗐𝗈𝗋𝗅𝖽'𝗌 𝗆𝗈𝗌𝗍 𝗂𝗇𝗏𝖺𝗅𝗎𝖺𝖻𝗅𝖾 𝗋𝖾𝗌𝗈𝗎𝗋𝖼𝖾𝗌.

“𝖶𝗂𝗍𝗁 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗅𝖺𝗎𝗇𝖼𝗁 𝗈𝖿 𝖪𝗎𝗆𝗎𝗅 𝖢𝗅𝗈𝗎𝖽 𝖨𝗇𝖿𝗂𝗇𝗂𝗍𝗒, 𝖯𝖭𝖦 𝗂𝗌 𝗆𝖺𝗄𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗂𝗍 𝖼𝗅𝖾𝖺𝗋 𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗍 𝗐𝖾 𝗋𝖾𝖿𝗎𝗌𝖾 𝗍𝗈 𝖻𝖾 𝗆𝖾𝗋𝖾 𝗌𝗉𝖾𝖼𝗍𝖺𝗍𝗈𝗋𝗌 𝗂𝗇 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝖽𝗂𝗀𝗂𝗍𝖺𝗅 𝗍𝗋𝖺𝗇𝗌𝖿𝗈𝗋𝗆𝖺𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇,” 𝗁𝖾 𝖺𝗌𝗌𝖾𝗋𝗍𝖾𝖽.

"𝖤𝗏𝖾𝗋𝗒 𝖽𝖺𝗒, 𝗀𝗈𝗏𝖾𝗋𝗇𝗆𝖾𝗇𝗍 𝖺𝗀𝖾𝗇𝖼𝗂𝖾𝗌, 𝖻𝗎𝗌𝗂𝗇𝖾𝗌𝗌𝖾𝗌, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖼𝗂𝗍𝗂𝗓𝖾𝗇𝗌 𝗀𝖾𝗇𝖾𝗋𝖺𝗍𝖾 𝖿𝗂𝗇𝖺𝗇𝖼𝗂𝖺𝗅 𝗋𝖾𝖼𝗈𝗋𝖽𝗌, 𝗁𝖾𝖺𝗅𝗍𝗁 𝗂𝗇𝖿𝗈𝗋𝗆𝖺𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇, 𝖾𝖽𝗎𝖼𝖺𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇𝖺𝗅 𝖽𝖺𝗍𝖺, 𝖼𝗈𝗆𝗆𝖾𝗋𝖼𝗂𝖺𝗅 𝗂𝗇𝖿𝗈𝗋𝗆𝖺𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗈𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗋 𝗌𝖾𝗇𝗌𝗂𝗍𝗂𝗏𝖾 𝖼𝗈𝗆𝗆𝗎𝗇𝗂𝖼𝖺𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇𝗌.

"𝖳𝗁𝖾 𝗊𝗎𝖾𝗌𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇𝗌 𝗈𝖿 𝗐𝗁𝖾𝗋𝖾 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝗂𝗇𝖿𝗈𝗋𝗆𝖺𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇 𝗂𝗌 𝗌𝗍𝗈𝗋𝖾𝖽, 𝗐𝗁𝗈 𝗁𝖺𝗌 𝖺𝖼𝖼𝖾𝗌𝗌, 𝗁𝗈𝗐 𝗂𝗍 𝗂𝗌 𝗉𝗋𝗈𝗍𝖾𝖼𝗍𝖾𝖽, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗎𝗇𝖽𝖾𝗋 𝗐𝗁𝗂𝖼𝗁 𝗅𝖾𝗀𝖺𝗅 𝗃𝗎𝗋𝗂𝗌𝖽𝗂𝖼𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇 𝗂𝗍 𝗈𝗉𝖾𝗋𝖺𝗍𝖾𝗌 𝖺𝗋𝖾 𝗇𝗈𝗐 𝖼𝗋𝗂𝗍𝗂𝖼𝖺𝗅 𝖻𝗎𝗌𝗂𝗇𝖾𝗌𝗌 𝖼𝗈𝗇𝗌𝗂𝖽𝖾𝗋𝖺𝗍𝗂𝗈𝗇𝗌.

Story by Melanesian News.

Hon Jason Peter member for Huon Gulf, MP
Hon. Jelta Wong MP
PNG Political Limelights
Western Highlands Province
Robert Mawe

09/08/2026

A LEADER WHO STANDS WITH HIS PEOPLE — IN JOY AND IN SORROW

A true leader stands with his people not only in times of celebration and joy, but also in moments of sorrow and grief. The presence of a leader at a funeral is a powerful expression of respect, compassion, solidarity, and genuine connection with the grieving family.

Hon. Minister William Duma recently paid his respects to the late Stanley Pena Ou at Keltiga Dika Mukuka Tribe in Mt. Hagen, Western Highlands Province, where he delivered a heartfelt speech in honour of the deceased and offered his condolences to the family.

The late Stanley Pena Ou was the son of the late Pena Ou, who holds an important place in the political history of Hagen and Papua New Guinea as the first national Member of Parliament for Hagen Open.

Pena Ou served as the Hagen Open MP from 1968 to 1977, succeeding Australian Keith Levy.

In 1977, he was succeeded by his uncle, Paias Wingti, who represented Hagen Open until 1987. Sir Paias subsequently contested the Western Highlands Regional seat and became Governor of Western Highlands Province.

In 1987, the Hagen Open seat was won by the late Paul Pora, who went on to serve three terms as Member of Parliament.

*A REMARKABLE POLITICAL HISTORY*

The period from 1968 to 1987 is particularly significant in the history of the Hagen Open electorate. For almost two decades, the seat was held by two relatives from the same family and clan — the late Pena Ou and Sir Paias Wingti, both of the Jiga Mukuka clan.

Then, in 2002, both the late Pena Ou and Sir Paias Wingti endorsed and supported Hon. William Duma in his bid for the Hagen Open seat.

Duma subsequently defeated the late Paul Pora and took over the Hagen Open seat after Paul Pora's three terms in Parliament.
There is an even deeper connection between these families.

Hon. William Duma's grandmother is from the Jiga Mukuka clan, the same clan from which the late Pena Ou and Sir Paias Wingti originated.

A LEGACY THAT CONNECTS GENERATIONS

Against this rich historical background, Hon. William Duma's presence at the funeral of the late Stanley Pena Ou carries a meaning that goes beyond a simple ceremonial visit.

It represents respect for the departed, compassion for the grieving family, and solidarity with the people. At the same time, it reflects the enduring bonds of family, clan, friendship, political history, and community that have connected these families and leaders across generations.

Leadership is not measured only by speeches delivered in Parliament, political victories, or public ceremonies. Sometimes, leadership is simply about being present when your people need you most.

Hon. William Duma's presence at this time of mourning is a reminder of those enduring relationships and of the importance of honouring the people and families who have contributed to the history of Hagen and Western Highlands.

May the departed soul of the late Stanley Pena Ou rest peacefully.

May his family, relatives, friends, and loved ones find strength, comfort, and peace during this difficult time.

Rest in eternal peace, late Stanley Pena Ou. 🕊️🙏🇵🇬

PC: Pamba Paka Images

Hon. Jelta Wong MP
Hon Jason Peter member for Huon Gulf, MP
PNG Political Limelights
Robert Mawe
Western Highlands Province

31/07/2026

DUMA'S LEGAL STRATEGY ON THE PPAs WILL EVENTUALLY BE RECOGNIZED.

Much has been said about the controversial Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), particularly the Dirio and Munum agreements. What is often overlooked is the legal strategy adopted by former Minister Duma during his tenure.

Recognising the significant financial implications of these agreements, Duma moved decisively through Kumul Consolidated Holdings (KCH) to engage reputable law firms to review all PPAs involving PNG Power Limited (PPL). This was not a political exercise but a calculated legal response to contracts that had the potential to impose substantial liabilities on the State.

The Dirio PPA became the subject of litigation after Dirio commenced proceedings against PPL and KCH in the National Court. The Court reaffirmed an important legal principle: PNG Power Limited is a separate corporate entity governed by its own Board and Management. The Court also noted that the Dirio PPA had received National Executive Council approval and had been executed by the then leadership of PPL, including the Acting CEO/Managing Director, J. Mangos, and Chairman Peter Nupiri, together with Dirio's directors.

The consequence of that finding was significant. The Court viewed the agreement as a binding commercial contract and ordered PPL to pay approximately K180 million to Dirio. While many focused on the judgment itself, Duma's response demonstrated that he understood the legal and institutional realities surrounding PPL.

As Minister, Duma could not simply direct PPL to challenge contracts that had already been executed by its own Board.
The law recognises PPL as an independent legal entity, and ministerial powers have clear limits. Rather than attempting to interfere with the company's governance, Duma used the legal standing of KCH, as the shareholder, to initiate court proceedings where appropriate.

That strategy also extended to the Munum PPA, which was challenged through KCH. Both matters have been placed before the courts, reflecting an approach that sought to work within the law rather than around it.

Following the National Court decision, Duma instructed PPL's legal team to prepare an appeal to the Supreme Court. However, before the appeal process could proceed under his leadership, ministerial responsibility was transferred to Minister Maru.

Minister Maru has inherited legal proceedings that were already underway. Rather than starting from scratch, he now has the opportunity to continue the work that was initiated before his appointment.

In politics, it is easy to judge outcomes without appreciating the legal constraints that shape government decisions. Duma could not rewrite contracts that PPL had already signed, nor could he disregard the corporate independence of a State-owned enterprise. Instead, he pursued what he considered to be the most effective legal avenue available through KCH.

Time will ultimately determine the outcome of the court proceedings.
However, if those challenges prove successful, history may well record that Duma's greatest contribution was not making the loudest political statements, but quietly laying the legal groundwork to protect the State's interests within the framework of the law.

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Hon. Jelta Wong MP
Hon Jason Peter member for Huon Gulf, MP
Hon. Richard Maru, MP

27/07/2026

DUMA REJECTS "KICKBACK" CLAIMS AT PNG POWER

Port Moresby,

28 July, 2026

Minister for State Enterprises Hon. William Duma has strongly rejected allegations of kickbacks and corruption in PNG Power Limited, saying the claims are politically motivated and made by people who do not understand how the national power company operates.

Speaking in Port Moresby this week, Mr. Duma said the constant public criticism ignores the “daily stress and countless hours” his office has spent with advisors, Kumul Consolidated Holdings and PPL management to stabilize the struggling utility.

"Kickbacks from a struggling and closely monitored company like PPL under my watch? That is unfair and baseless," Mr. Duma said.

He defended the government's oversight of PPL, outlining key accountability measures. The Minister stated that PPL’s books are audited annually by the Auditor-General and made public on the AGO website. He also said he tables PPL’s Annual Operating Plans to the National Executive Council every year for approval, and all expenditure on employees, contractors, diesel and equipment is done under those NEC-approved plans.

To address PPL’s long-standing financial problems, Mr. Duma revealed that KCH had engaged leading international advisory firms including KordaMentha and the Big Four accounting firms to conduct a full review of PPL’s structure and operations.

"The financial issues and challenges have been known to NEC," he said. "NEC has already approved the PPL Turnaround Plan, and the Board, now led by a competent expatriate CEO, is implementing it."

According to the Minister, it will take at least two and a half years for PPL to turn around, even if partial privatization proceeds. He clarified that all major agreements being questioned were signed in 2019, before he assumed the portfolio.

"Ministers do not negotiate or sign contracts. Boards and management do that," Mr. Duma stressed.

He said PNG Power is one of the most scrutinized SOEs because it affects every citizen and business daily. "Almost every day we encounter power issues. Any proper investigation will not reveal anything seriously new or seriously corrupt," he said.

Mr. Duma reaffirmed his commitment to reforming PPL and ensuring reliable and affordable power for Papua New Guineans.

//////////------Ends--------///////

22/07/2026

PNG PORTS DELIVERS 22.5MILLION INTERIM DIVIDEND TO STATE.

Virtually every major sector of the economy depends on efficient port operations.

The reported handling of 10.8 million tonnes of cargo over the past year represents a significant milestone. It demonstrates the scale of economic activity flowing through PNG's maritime network and reinforces the country's position as having one of the busiest port systems in the Pacific Islands region.

Such cargo volumes reflect robust activity across key export industries—including liquefied natural gas, mining, agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and manufacturing—as well as the importation of machinery, construction materials, fuel, food, and other consumer goods essential for economic development.

Strong port performance has a direct multiplier effect on the broader economy. Efficient cargo handling reduces shipping delays, lowers logistics costs, improves supply chain reliability, and enhances the competitiveness of PNG businesses. This, in turn, encourages domestic investment, attracts foreign capital, supports employment, and facilitates trade with regional and global markets.

The reference to Westpac Bank's report of economic growth exceeding 4% suggests that the country's macroeconomic fundamentals are strengthening. While economic growth is influenced by multiple factors—including commodity prices, investment, government expenditure, and private sector activity—the high throughput recorded by the ports serves as tangible evidence that commercial activity is expanding.

Increased cargo movements often correlate with greater production, stronger exports, rising imports of capital equipment, and increased business confidence.

The acknowledgement of PNG Ports, KCHL (Kumul Consolidated Holdings Limited), and Minister Duma recognizes the collaborative leadership behind these achievements

**PNG Ports Corporation is responsible for managing and operating the nation's declared ports, ensuring safe, efficient, and commercially sustainable maritime services.

**Kumul Consolidated Holdings Limited, as the State's trustee shareholder for many commercial entities, provides strategic oversight and governance to ensure state-owned enterprises deliver both commercial returns and national development outcomes.

** Minister Duma, in his ministerial capacity overseeing state enterprises, has been instrumental in promoting reforms, infrastructure investment, and operational improvements across government-owned commercial entities.

This feat reflects not only of operational success but also of strategic leadership that has enabled continued investment in port infrastructure, modernization of facilities, improved governance, and stronger financial performance.

Looking ahead, sustaining these gains will require continued investment in port expansion, digitalization of cargo management systems, enhanced maritime safety, climate-resilient infrastructure, and stronger connectivity between ports and inland transport networks.

As PNG's economy continues to grow and regional trade opportunities expand, particularly within the Asia-Pacific, efficient ports will become even more important in supporting exports, facilitating investment, and improving the cost of doing business.

This achievement is more than a record cargo figure.

It is an indication that the nation's ports are a strategic national asset whose performance is closely linked to economic growth, trade competitiveness, job creation, and the prosperity of Papua New Guinea.

The successful handling of 10.8 million tonnes of cargo, coupled with economic growth above 4%, reflects the positive impact of effective management, sound governance, and sustained investment in one of the country's most vital pieces of economic infrastructure.

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PC: TV WAN
Hon. Jelta Wong MP
Hon Jason Peter member for Huon Gulf, MP

14/07/2026

Jiwaka Provincial Government Commits K1.023 Million to Support UPNG Students

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Port Moresby | 13th July 2026

Students from Jiwaka Province studying at the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) have expressed their heartfelt appreciation to the Jiwaka Provincial Government following the disbursement of K1.023 million in tuition assistance under the province's higher education support program.
The funding, amounting to K3,000 per student, will significantly ease the financial burden faced by Jiwaka students and their families, allowing them to focus on their academic studies without the added pressure of tuition costs.

Speaking on behalf of Jiwaka students at UPNG, student representatives acknowledged the leadership of Jiwaka Governor Hon. Simon T. Kaiwi and the Jiwaka Provincial Government for prioritizing education and investing in the province's future human resource development.

The students described the support as more than just financial assistance, saying it represents a strong commitment by the provincial government to empower young people through higher education. They noted that many families make considerable sacrifices to support their children's education, and the tuition subsidy provides timely relief amid increasing educational expenses.

The students further emphasized that the investment demonstrates the provincial government's confidence in the next generation of leaders, professionals, and public servants who will one day contribute to the sustainable development of Jiwaka Province.

In response to the government's support, the students pledged to remain committed to academic excellence, uphold the values of integrity and hard work, and complete their studies successfully. They also reaffirmed their commitment to return home after graduation to contribute their knowledge, skills, and expertise towards improving education, healthcare, agriculture, business, infrastructure, and public service throughout the province

The UPNG Jiwaka student community extended its sincere gratitude to Governor Hon. Simon T. Kaiwi and the entire Jiwaka Provincial Government administration for recognizing education as a vital investment in the province's future.

"As beneficiaries of this support, we are deeply grateful for the confidence that our provincial government has placed in us. We will strive to excel in our studies and repay this investment by serving our communities with dedication and professionalism," the students said.

The tuition assistance initiative reflects the Jiwaka Provincial Government's ongoing commitment to increasing access to tertiary education and developing a skilled workforce capable of driving long-term social and economic development across the province.

The students concluded by thanking the provincial leadership once again for standing with them in their educational journey and for making higher education more accessible for young people from Jiwaka.

----------Ends----------

12/07/2026

Minister William Duma Meets Hagen Central Students at UPNG

Port Moresby | 12 July 2026

Member for Hagen Open and Minister for State-Owned Enterprises, Hon. William Mara Duma, attended a meet-and-greet session hosted by the Hagen Central Students Association (HCSA) of the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) this evening, 12th of July 2026.

The event was held at the UPNG Main Lecture Theatre (MLT) and brought together students from Hagen Central studying at the country's premier university.

Minister Duma was accompanied by the United Resources Party (URP) General Secretary, Mr. Thomas Kumin, along with other party executives.

In his address, Minister Duma encouraged the students to become productive citizens and strive for excellence in their respective fields of study. He emphasized the importance of integrity, responsibility, and honesty, urging students to uphold these values throughout their professional careers as well as within their families and communities.

He reminded the students that education remains the key to success, describing it as a pathway to freedom and personal liberation.
"Education is the key to success. It is freedom and liberation. Make sure to give your best shot at it, as you are among the fortunate few who have secured a place at this premier university of the South Pacific," Minister Duma said.

Speaking on behalf of the students, HCSA Patron Mr. Presley Puri, who also serves as the Deputy National Statistician, expressed gratitude to Minister Duma for taking time out of his busy schedule to meet with the association.

Mr. Puri said the students were honoured to host their local Member of Parliament, describing Minister Duma as not only an experienced politician but also a successful lawyer and entrepreneur whose achievements serve as an inspiration to young people from Hagen Central.

The meet-and-greet provided students with an opportunity to interact with their local leader, discuss issues affecting young people, and receive encouragement as they pursue their academic and professional aspirations.

------------------End-------------------

09/07/2026

Minister Jelta Wong Champions Culture and Development in East New Britain
/////////////////////////
Kokopo, East New Britain – Fisheries and Marine Resources Minister and Member for Gazelle, Hon. Jelta Wong, played a central role in two significant milestones for East New Britain, demonstrating his continued commitment to preserving the province's rich cultural heritage while advancing its economic and infrastructure development.
Minister Wong joined East New Britain Governor Hon. Michael Marum, provincial leaders, and thousands of people in celebrating the 29th Coca-Cola Tolai Warwargira and Mask Festival in Kokopo, one of Papua New Guinea's premier cultural events.
Originally scheduled to be hosted in Pomio District, this year's festival was relocated to Kokopo due to adverse weather conditions, ensuring the successful staging of the iconic celebration. Having hosted the festival last year, Minister Wong was instrumental in supporting the smooth transition and reaffirming the festival's importance as a showcase of Tolai identity, culture, and unity.

The celebrations began before dawn with the traditional Kinavai ceremony at 4:00 am, where the renowned Tolai dukduk and tubuan masks emerged in a spectacular procession to Kokopo Sports Ground. The sacred ritual, symbolising spiritual awakening and the enduring strength of Tolai customs, set the tone for a day filled with traditional dances, music, art, and cultural performances.
Minister Wong actively participated in customary obligations throughout the festival, including the exchange of traditional shell money, reinforcing the cultural values that continue to unite communities across East New Britain.

A highlight of the festival was the ceremonial passing of the traditional spear to Hon. Ereman Tobaining Jnr, Member for Kokopo, who will host next year's festival. The symbolic handover reflects the continuity of leadership and the collective responsibility to preserve and promote Tolai culture for future generations.
Speaking through his participation and support, Minister Wong reaffirmed that protecting cultural heritage remains essential to building strong communities while creating opportunities for tourism and economic growth in the province.

Beyond the cultural celebrations, Minister Wong also witnessed another landmark achievement for East New Britain—the approval of four energy licences to the East New Britain Energy Company by the National Energy Authority.

The licences were formally presented by National Energy Authority Managing Director Mr. Ronald Makenta in the presence of Governor Michael Marum, Minister Wong, Hon. Elizah Wesley, Chairman of the Provincial Executive Council Committee for Commerce, Local Level Government Presidents, and other provincial leaders.

The approvals mark a significant step towards provincial management of energy services, enabling East New Britain to take greater responsibility for electricity generation, distribution, and retail while working alongside PNG Power to improve electricity access throughout the province.

Minister Wong welcomed the development as a major investment in the province's future, noting that reliable power infrastructure will support rural communities, attract private investment, strengthen local businesses, and improve essential services.

Governor Marum described the licence approvals as a long-awaited achievement that will empower the province to deliver better energy services, particularly to rural communities, in partnership with the Marape-Rosso Government and the National Energy Authority.

The initiative is expected to strengthen collaboration between the provincial government, Local Level Governments, and the East New Britain Energy Company, creating new opportunities for economic growth while ensuring more reliable electricity for households and industries.

Minister Wong commended the Marape-Rosso Government, the National Energy Authority, and all stakeholders whose collaboration made the milestone possible, saying the achievement reflects the government's commitment to empowering provinces and improving the lives of Papua New Guineans.

The twin events—the celebration of one of Papua New Guinea's most treasured cultural festivals and the advancement of critical energy infrastructure—highlight East New Britain's continued progress in preserving its unique heritage while embracing sustainable development.

Together, they reflect a province that is honouring its traditions, strengthening its communities, and building a brighter future through visionary leadership and strong partnerships, with Minister Jelta Wong continuing to play a prominent role in both its cultural and development agenda.

/////////Ends////////////

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