NICTA not aware of Facebook shutdown as CEO calls for proper coordination in future

Tuesday, 25 March 2025, 4:16 pm

NICTA chief executive officer Kila Gulo-Vui.

In response to reports that Facebook was inaccessible in Papua New Guinea throughout yesterday, 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," CEO Kila Gulo-Vui said

Yesterday evening, a media statement by Police Minister 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.

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."