PNG GOVERNMENT AGENCIES NEED A COORDINATED APPROACH IN THEIR ROLE AND EMPHASIZES OF SHUTTING DOWN FACEBOOK IN PNG

Authorized by

Kila Gulo-Vui

Posted on Transformation PNG WhatsApp

Chief Executive Officer - NICTA PNG

Monday 24 March 2025, Port Moresby Papua New Guinea.

NICTA CEO Clarifies Role and Emphasizes Need for Coordinated Approach

In response to reports that Facebook was inaccessible in Papua New Guinea throughout the day today, National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA) took immediate steps to investigate the matter.

NICTA reached out to the PNG National Cyber Security Centre and a query was placed with Meta, the parent company of Facebook. At this stage, the exact cause of the access issue remains unclear. We appreciate the public's patience and understanding as we continue to investigate this matter and will provide further updates as soon as more information becomes available.

Later this evening, a media statement by Police Minister Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Jnr regarding the successful testing of innovative technology to regulate the use of Facebook and other online platforms came to NICTA’s attention. NICTA CEO Kila Gulo-Vui clarified NICTA's role and emphasized the importance of a well-coordinated, transparent approach to online regulation.

While NICTA supported efforts to promote responsible online communication and mitigate harmful content such as hate speech, misinformation, and exploitation, Mr. Gulo-Vui confirmed that he was neither consulted nor involved in the testing referenced by the Police Minister.

Mr. Gulo-Vui acknowledged that actions concerning the regulation of online platforms appear to be grounded in clear legal frameworks, such as Sections 14 to 18 of the Counter-Terrorism Act 2024 and the National Information and Communications Technology Act 2009 under Section 72, which requires NICTA operator licensees to cooperate with law enforcement authorities.

However, he stressed the need for greater inter-agency coordination to ensure that such efforts are transparent, well-communicated, and do not inadvertently impact public trust.

"Public confidence in our digital governance relies on transparency and consistency in how we approach online regulation. It is essential that all key stakeholders, including NICTA, law enforcement, telecommunications providers, and government agencies, collaborate closely to ensure that any actions taken are well-understood and properly executed," Mr. Gulo-Vui stated.

He further emphasized that while maintaining national security is a priority, the balance between safety and digital freedom must be carefully managed. Mr. Gulo-Vui will be addressing this matter with the Minister for ICT tomorrow to ensure NICTA's role continues to align with the government's broader policy objectives while fostering a cohesive and united approach to digital regulation.

Commentary by editor:

"It begs the question why NICTA, as the ICT Regulator was not consulted, despite the Police Minister stating to the contrary. During my time at NICTA, I received numerous directives from the Government to ban Facebook but had always advised against it. Off course now it is different, where provisions of the Anti-Terrorism Act are also being invoked."