Papua New Guinea's Parliament has now twice refused to entertain a vote of no-confidence against the Prime Minister, Michael Somare, and this underrmining investor confidence according to the  world's leading economic and financial analysis firm.

IHS Global Insights, says Parliament's rejection of the no-confidence motion in the Prime Minister raises "real questions about the long-term stability of the country's political system" and "adds weight to claims that the government is manipulating the system to maintain its hold on power"

By Scott Waide

Tucked away behind the Nobnob mountain on Madang’s North Coast is a small school – the Nobnob primary school. Its students are the liveliest bunch of youngsters I’ve met this year. Keen to learn and well behaved even when the teacher is not there.    

By Barry Coates, Oxfam* 

For most of us, the Pacific means exotic islands where the people are happy, beaches are lined with coconut palms and there is a unique genetic sequence for rugby players.

In many ways the Pacific has huge wealth - natural resources, cultural diversity and resilient, capable people. These are vital ingredients for a decent standard of living for all.

By Kevin Pamba

THE country’s political and administrative elite has failed to deal with widespread corruption that is becoming a major killer in Papua New Guinea, a business leader said.