Justic Ellis orders immediate ceasefire in Wapenamanda

A National Court judge has ordered for an immediate ceasefire within 7 days of a tribal fight between two warring tribes in Wapenamanda district in Enga.

Among 7 orders issued by Justice Graham Ellis this morning to the Yakuman and Yangakun tribe is for a final peace agreement that is expected to be reached on the 24th of October.

This depends on how the mediation team communicate between themselves.

The leader of the Yakuman Tribe Danny Katie and the local MP and leader of the Yangakun Tribe Miki Kaeok and other parties concerned were present to hear the final orders.

Justice Ellis says that all weapons should be laid down, there shall be no hostile engagements, cease from any provocative behavior including oral and written communication or in the social media. More importantly there should be no roadblocks or any disturbances along the highway.

The judge further adds that the police will arrest and detain anybody who defies these orders and may be prosecuted for Contempt of Court.

"Also in order number 6, I call Danny Katie and Hon. Miki Kaeok (the leaders) to obey all reasonable directions of the following mediators. The Acting Provincial Police Commander or his nominee and Provincial Administrator or his nominee, "Ellis says.

A final peace agreement is expected to be reached on the 24th of October or a later date in response to a written request from either of the mediators if any.

The Court expects both leaders to negotiate in good faith as any failure may constitute to contempt of court.