Port Moresby, 24 April 2026 — Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has welcomed today’s National Court decision dismissing the case relating to Starlink and setting aside the earlier directive that had halted the licensing process, describing the ruling as an important step forward for communications access and digital progress in Papua New Guinea.
Prime Minister Marape said the court’s decision provides clarity and allows the country to move ahead with practical solutions to improve telecommunications services, especially for rural and remote communities that have long struggled with poor or non-existent network coverage.
“The National Court has spoken, and we respect its decision,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“My Government welcomes this outcome because Papua New Guinea urgently needs reliable, real-time communications services for our people, businesses, schools, health facilities, and disaster response agencies.”
He said recent natural disasters, including cyclone-related emergencies affecting parts of the country, had demonstrated the critical importance of dependable communication systems.
“Our recent disaster experience has shown us clearly that communication is no longer a luxury—it is a necessity.
“When communities are cut off during cyclones, floods, earthquakes, or other emergencies, lives can depend on real-time communication. We must ensure our people are never isolated in times of crisis.”
Prime Minister Marape noted that the Starlink process had commenced through lawful regulatory channels when the National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA) began public consultation in 2023 on Low Earth Orbit satellite internet services, with major global industry players participating in the process. Starlink subsequently applied for the necessary licences through NICTA.
He said the matter later became subject to intervention and legal proceedings, which created uncertainty around the rollout of the service.
“Today’s ruling restores certainty and confirms that proper regulatory institutions must be allowed to perform their lawful functions in the national interest,” Prime Minister Marape said.
