It seems to us that at this time worthy politics and democracy are at risk in Papua New Guinea says Bishop Arnold Orowa President, Catholic Bishops’ Conference Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands.
He says that honesty and commitment to the common good are essential ingredients of worthy politics.
Moreover in a true democratic system political authority is accountable to the people it represents.”
“No person, including members of parliament, is above the law. There is the one law for everyone in Papua New Guinea.”
“Yet recent events, with accusations, dismissals and political manouverings appear to disrespect the Constitution and the rule of law.”
“Our people continue to search for security and prosperity in a socio-political scene that seems even more confusing and complex.”
“Instability and oppressive law enforcement reflecting the interest of a few is hurting our entire society.”
“If this continues it will be detrimental to the soul of the nation. Investors confident and a good image of our nation will be lost,” said Orowa.
“‘The truth will make you free’ (John 8:32). As Church leaders we call for a peaceful and truthful resolution of the current political turmoil.
The values we refer to are found not only in the Holy Bible, but are expressed in civil law, yet have their origin in God.”
“In God’s name we call on the elected leaders of this nation to give priority to the respect for law, the common good and future of our nation.”
The Papua New Guinea national court this week reinstated the anti-corruption task force Sweep which was disbanded by the prime minister, Peter O’Neill, last month after it turned its investigations towards him.
O’Neill disbanded the organisation and sacked its chief, Sam Koim, accusing it of being compromised by political and media ties, after new evidence in a long-running corruption investigation prompted an arrest warrant for O’Neill.
The warrant related to allegations he authorised multimillion-dollar illegal payments to a Port Moresby law firm, which he has consistently denied.
Koim had applied to the court last week to have O’Neill’s decision overturned.
Fr Giorgio Licini writing in the Catholic Reporter PNG says that since independence Papua New Guinea has been marred in poor governance and corruption but now people have had enough.
“They had enough of dubious payments; uncompleted projects; political consent and votes captured every five years with unfulfilled promises.”
There is a third post-independence generation of Papua New Guineans fast emerging after the Somares and the O’Neills.He says the dream for a clean and honest running of the public affairs is palpable at the grassroots. he says
“They want a more mature democratic process and a totally transparent management of public wealth and funds.”
Source
- The Catholic Reporter PNG
- Supplied: The Catholic Reporter PNG
- The Guardian
- Image: The Catholic Reporter PNG
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News category: Asia Pacific.
