Member of Parliament gets death threats
An Opposition Member of Parliament has filed a police report following death threats from an unknown mobile number.
Keith Iduhu, the Member for Hiri-Koiari and also Shadow Attorney General and Minister of Justice, in a letter to Police Commissioner David Manning stated, “I wish to register and file an official complaint with your office and the cybercrime unit for appropriate investigation and prosecution.
“On Sunday, April 14, 2024, at approximately 0834hrs I received a message from an unknown number (+675 7586 8300) on my personal WhatsApp account suggesting threats against my life and family.”
Mr Iduhu claimed the “person who messaged me appeared to be a disgruntled supporter or possible associate of the Prime Minister and government.
It appears they have issues with my outspoken stance against the Prime Minister and government, which I maintain is within our rights prescribed by our constitution for freedom of speech.”
Prime Minister James Marape has publicly condemned the threats directed at Opposition MP Keith Iduhu and has ordered a thorough police investigation
“As an advocate for free speech, non-violence, and democracy, I must firmly condemn the recent threats on a Member of Parliament. I have directed the police to thoroughly investigate these allegations and to prosecute the offender accordingly.
“My leadership has encountered challenges from Opposition leaders since June 2019, but prior to 2024, none have involved such severe threats. We take these allegations seriously and will not overlook them.”
The prime minister emphasised the importance of a robust Opposition for effective governance.
“We have requested that the police diligently pursue this matter. While we welcome constructive criticism, threats against leaders are unacceptable,” Mr Marape said.
Mr Iduhu maintained that “as an elected representative of parliament, I am well within my rights to speak out against a government and Prime Minister which I believe are doing our country more harm than good – just like any individual does.
“I understand my position as a member of parliament and public office holder makes me open to criticism and scathing commentary at times, which is welcomed. However, when criticism borders into threats against not only me, but my family, this is where I put my foot down and demand these individuals face the rule of law.”
Earlier this year, another Opposition MP Alan Bird publicly revealed death threats he had received.