Concerns Raised Over PNG Police Testing of Social Media Technology Without Regulatory Oversight
The Media Council of Papua New Guinea has expressed alarm over the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary’s recent testing of new technology aimed at monitoring social media platforms, which was conducted without the knowledge or approval of key government regulatory agencies. The council criticized the move as a breach of jurisdiction and a potential threat to free speech and democratic principles.
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| Concerns Raised Over PNG Police Testing of Social Media Technology Without Regulatory Oversight |
The controversy emerged after Police Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr. announced on Monday that the trial of the undisclosed technology had been successful. According to Tsiamalili, the initiative was designed to curb the misuse of social media platforms. However, it later came to light that neither the National Information and Communication Authority (NICTA) nor the Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT)—the two primary agencies responsible for regulating communication technologies in the country—were informed about the testing.
In response, the Media Council called for greater transparency among government agencies, particularly when addressing matters that could impact freedom of expression. The council voiced serious concerns about the lack of public warning or consultation before such tests were carried out in community spaces like social media. They argued that the absence of open dialogue and full disclosure undermined democratic values and highlighted a concerning disregard for constitutional rights.
“The police minister described the exercise as a success, claiming the technology tested could effectively combat the abuse of social media platforms,” said Neville Choi, President of the Media Council. “But conducting such trials without informing citizens raises questions about accountability and edges dangerously close to autocratic practices and human rights violations.”
Choi further revealed that inquiries made by the council to both NICTA and DICT confirmed their complete unawareness of the initiative. This lack of coordination between government agencies has been labeled unacceptable, especially given the potential implications for civil liberties.
Adding another layer to the debate, Information and Communications Technology Minister Timothy Masiu acknowledged that statutory powers exist under laws such as the Counter-Terrorism Act 2024 and the National Information and Communications Technology Act 2009. These provisions grant authorities, including the Commissioner of Police and the ICT Minister himself, certain emergency powers. However, Masiu emphasized that these powers are subject to constitutional safeguards and cannot be exercised arbitrarily.
“I reiterate that any use of these powers must adhere strictly to constitutional constraints and require specific conditions to be met beforehand,” Masiu stated. He urged all stakeholders, including government bodies and private entities, to work collaboratively to strengthen the nation’s cybersecurity framework while respecting international obligations.
Despite assurances from officials, the incident has sparked widespread unease about the balance between national security and individual freedoms. Critics argue that the government’s approach risks eroding public trust and fueling misinformation due to the lack of clear communication with mainstream media and the general populace.
As discussions continue, many are calling for stricter oversight mechanisms to ensure that future technological initiatives align with democratic norms and prioritize transparency, safeguarding both public safety and fundamental human rights.
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