Port Moresby | Sunday, 20 July 2025
Minister for Information and Communications Technology, Hon. Timothy Masiu, is alive, well, and recovering following a brief hospital stay in Cairns, Australia, according to a public statement issued today by the Minister for Police and Regional Member for Bougainville, Hon. Peter Tsiamalili Jr., MP.
The statement comes in response to a fake Facebook post circulating online that falsely claimed Minister Masiu had passed away while receiving treatment in Australia.
“Contrary to the misinformation being spread, I can unequivocally confirm that Minister Masiu is alive, well, and in good spirits,” said Minister Tsiamalili. “I was with him in Cairns from Monday to Thursday last week after he was airlifted there for precautionary medical tests due to a low blood level reading on Sunday, 15 July.”
Minister Masiu has since been discharged from Cairns Base Hospital and is currently resting as advised by his attending doctor. Tsiamalili further assured the public that he had spoken directly with Minister Masiu shortly before issuing the statement and confirmed the Minister is recovering well.
The Prime Minister has been formally briefed on both Minister Masiu’s health status and the social media misinformation incident.
Minister Tsiamalili condemned the fake post, describing it as deeply harmful and irresponsible. “It is disheartening to see some Papua New Guineans engage in the spread of false and distressing information,” he said.
He confirmed that the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has acted swiftly to trace the origins of the post. “Two individuals linked to the post have already been identified, and several Facebook accounts have been taken down.”
Minister Tsiamalili assured the public that the perpetrators will be held accountable. “We are working quickly to ensure those responsible face prosecution. Spreading fake news, especially regarding someone’s life, is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”
The Government has reiterated its commitment to combating misinformation and promoting responsible use of digital platforms in Papua New Guinea.
