Belden Namah calls out government on its lack of intervention to addressing law & order issues

Vanimo Green MP Belden Namah asked a series of questions today directed to Prime Minister James Marape on the government’s plans on addressing the ongoing law and order issues in the country.

Namah’s questions without notice were raised in relation to the mass killings that were reported over the weekend in Enga Province.

Reports confirmed that 49 men were massacred in Enga as a result of the ongoing inter-tribal fights across the province.

When parliament reconvened for its sitting in the second week today, Mr. Namah took the opportunity during question time, calling out the prime minister on his plans to curb this issue.

“Can the Prime Minister tell us what are the plans of the government in addressing these ongoing law & order issues?” Namah asked Marape today.

The Vanimo Green MP then went on to ask if the government had received reports of arrests made in similar incidents since 2019.

He asked if those responsible would be held accountable and liable for committing crime in both Enga and Hela provinces respectively, where tribal killings have mounted.      

Mr Marape when responding to Mr Namah’s questions, said a more detailed response would be provided on the floor of parliament tomorrow.

But in a nutshell, the prime minister admitted that what transpired was worrisome for a country that has been declared a Christian nation.

He affirmed that government was truly aware of the unending situation since he took office and requires a combined effort to address and resolve law & order issues.

Meanwhile, Commissioner of Police, David Manning, confirmed yesterday [Monday] that additional security forces personnel were deployed to the Wapenamanda area following tribal fighting on Sunday [February 17].

In a statement, Manning described what unfolded in the Highlands region as disgraceful act of atrocity.

“There is absolutely no excuse for this senseless violence that has caused a significant number of deaths and ruined the lives of many families, and further harmed the reputation of Enga and the Nation,” he said.

"The total number of dead and injured is still being assessed as police recover further remains from dense scrubland

"Police responded to the situation as soon as was possible under the circumstances.

"Details on the conflict are still being investigated and information on what occurred will be released as confirmed this comes to hand.

"However, there is no other way to look at this situation other than it is an act of domestic terrorism.”

Namah made recommendations, stating the government should introduce a new ministerial department purposely intended to address law & order.