Magarima MP condemns recent torture and killing of woman in his district

The local MP for Magarima and Minister for Bougainville Affairs, Manasseh Makiba has condemned the recent torture and brutal killing of a woman in Magarima District of Hela Province.

The woman was accused of practicing sorcery, and allegedly responsible for her husband’s death.

In his statement, he expressed deep shock and shame over the violent act, highlighting that such horrific occurrences had not been witnessed in the district for many years.

Mr Makiba said the Sorcery Act of 1971 was repealed in July 2013, which had previously allowed sorcery accusations as a defense in cases of violence.

This repeal followed public outcry and gruesome killings related to sorcery accusations. It aimed to address sorcery accusation violence.

He said the new provision in the Criminal Code Act 1974 [Section 299A] now considers intentional killing based on sorcery accusations are willful murder.

“I am heartbroken to see defenseless and innocent women, especially widows and single mothers, who are excessively accused and subjected to brutal violence, including torture, burning, and public execution.

“Justice should be pursued through lawful means, not mob violence. The world is increasingly standing against sorcery accusation-related violence [SARV],” he said.

He further stated that Hela Governor Philip Undialu has also condemned this act in the highest possible term and wants those perpetrators to be arrested and charged immediately.

“We have directed Provincial Police Commander Superintendent Michael Welly to immediately carryout an investigation and arrest those responsible.

"I have instructed all community leaders, the ward councilors and the LLG presidents to work together with the reserve and regular police officers in Magarima District to ensure those responsible are identified and brought to justice,” he said.

Makiba also stressed that communities must not be just bystanders, they must be the first line of defence against such act. By standing with law enforcement and rejecting violence, they can help end this tragic cycle.