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

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.

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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.

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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.

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09/07/2026

Minister Jelta Wong Champions Culture and Development in East New Britain
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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.

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01/07/2026

SUMKAR MP DELIVERS VEHICLES, COMMUNITY FUNDING AND PMIZ SUPPORT

The Member for Sumkar and Vice Minister for Petroleum, Hon. Alexander Suguman Orme, has reaffirmed his commitment to fair and equal development across Sumkar District with the presentation of three new Toyota Land Cruisers to the Presidents of Sumgilbar, South Karkar, and North Karkar LLGs to strengthen local service delivery.

A new administrative support vehicle was also presented to the Rampi PMIZ Landowners Association, together with a K50,000 mobilisation cheque from the Sumkar District Development Authority (SDDA) to support landowner organisation and preparations for the Pacific Marine Industrial Zone (PMIZ) Impact Project.

PMV operators on Route 17B from Rampi to Bunabun Route 17E (Sumgilbar North Coast Road) also received MVIL registration support to improve safe and reliable public transport services.

The SDDA further committed more than K100,000 to support schools, churches, women's (Mama) groups, and other community-based projects in Rampi 1 and Rampi 2, recognising Rampi as one of the largest communities in Sumkar and the district's gateway to Madang District.

In support of youth development, Hon. Orme also announced a commitment of K50,000 to assist youths in the Sum area to organise a major sports tournament. The funding will be presented at a later date as part of the district's ongoing support for youth empowerment, sports, and community unity.

Hon. Orme said the initiatives reflect the SDDA's commitment to ensuring fair and equal development reaches every ward and community across Sumkar District.

"Our vision is to deliver development fairly across all of Sumkar. These investments strengthen local leadership, support our communities, prepare our people for opportunities such as the PMIZ, and empower our youth. More development is on the way," Hon. Orme said.

& Photo by SDDA page

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29/06/2026

Good morning to the children, youths, and people of Koroba–Lake Kopiago District, Hela Province, and Papua New Guinea.

I have been relatively offline for some time due to national and local commitments and the important work we continue to undertake for our people. Over the coming days, I will share updates on the various developments and projects taking place across our district.

As we approach the 2027 National General Elections, I remain focused on delivering services and development outcomes for our people rather than engaging in political criticisms, media propaganda, and unnecessary distractions.

Today, I am pleased to share a historic achievement for our district. For the first time, a vehicle has successfully crossed into Telefomin through the Lake Kopiago–Strickland road corridor. This milestone demonstrates that our vision of connecting some of the most remote parts of our country through road infrastructure is becoming a reality.

The successful crossing is not merely a transportation achievement; it is a symbol of progress, connectivity, and economic opportunity for our people. Improved road access will strengthen trade, improve service delivery, reduce travel hardships, and create new opportunities for communities along the corridor.

At the same time, we continue to invest in health, education, and infrastructure development. The opening of the Temporary Koroba District Hospital and the ongoing construction of the new Koroba District Hospital reflect our commitment to improving essential services for our people.

Leadership is measured not by words, political rhetoric, or social media commentary, but by the results delivered to the people. I encourage our communities to judge leadership based on development outcomes and the positive changes taking place throughout Koroba–Lake Kopiago District.

Together, let us continue to build a stronger, more connected, and prosperous district for future generations.

May God bless Koroba–Lake Kopiago, Hela Province.

Hon. William Bando, MP
Member for Koroba–Lake Kopiago
Minister for Coffee

27/06/2026

A New Chapter for Road Development in Western Highlands.

Today marked the official launch of the HATI/Confarm Junction to Ambra Junction and Ouglebeng Junction Upgrade and Sealing Project (21km) at the Mt. Ambra Coconut Gate.

The project was officially launched by Hon. Wai Rapa, Governor of Western Highlands Province, alongside Hon. William Mara Duma, Member for Hagen Open, Senior Minister for State-Owned Enterprises (SOE), and Leader of the United Resources Party (URP).

This major infrastructure project is a joint initiative of the Western Highlands Provincial Government (WHPG) and the Mt. Hagen City Authority (MCA), reaffirming their commitment to improving road networks and delivering better services to the people.

The project will be constructed by Goodwill Works Limited, with the WHPG Engineering Division overseeing project management.
Once completed, the 21-kilometre upgrade and sealing will provide safer and more reliable travel, improve access for local communities, support farmers and businesses, and drive economic growth throughout the project area.

Ambra Coconut Gate, Western Highlands Province.

Blue Thunder Media Production

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19/06/2026

Final Funeral Service for Late Chief Leo Kulda Kunjip Held at Kontla, Kelua 2

Today, family members, friends, leaders, and people from across Western Highlands Province gathered at Kontla, Kelua 2, to pay their final respects to the late Chief Leo Kulda Kunjip during his final funeral service.

The service was attended by Hon. William Mara Duma, Senior Minister for State-Owned Enterprises (SOE), Leader of the United Resources Party (URP) together with Western Highlands Governor Hon. Wai Rapa, Provincial Executive Council (PEC) members, community leaders, and many mourners who came to honor the life and legacy of the respected leader, businessman, and community figure.

Late Chief Leo Kulda Kunjip was one of the pioneering businessmen of Western Highlands Province whose contributions helped drive economic growth, create employment opportunities, and support the development of local communities. His leadership, wisdom, and commitment to serving his people have left a lasting impact that will be remembered for generations.

Tomorrow at 10:00 AM, the final burial service will be held at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Mt. Hagen. Family members, friends, and the wider community will gather one last time to bid their final farewell before he is laid to rest.

“I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.” – John 11:25

May his soul rest in eternal peace. 🕊️🙏🏽

Story and image by: Blue Thunder Media Production .

United Resources Party Inc

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