JUNE 19 2022
Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has commended the people of Tari-Pori and Hela for their behavior during the campaign of People’s National Congress (PNC) leader and Ialibu-Pangia MP Peter O’Neill in Tari on Friday (June 17 2022).
He said today (June 19 2022) that the peace and calm displayed by the people of Tari-Pori and Hela, despite O’Neill being his strongest opponent during the elections, should be a good example for the rest of Papua New Guinea.
PM Marape, who was in Eastern Highlands on Friday campaigning for his Pangu Pati candidates, said there was no need for violence during the elections.
The Prime Minister, as well as Hela Governor Hon. Philip Undialu and other leaders of the province, have recently been urging their people not to cause trouble during the elections.
“I want to commend the people of Hela for their behaviour during the visit of PNC leader and former prime minister, Peter O’Neill, on Friday,” he said.
“Their good citizenship has shone, despite so much negativity about the province, and is a shining light for the rest of Papua New Guinea.
“The people of Hela have obviously listened to our appeals for peace during the elections, and while there have been election-related violence in other provinces, there have been none to date in the province.
“Our Huli people are good people, who have understanding, and do not cause unnecessary violence.
“My people of Hela did not tear down any flags or posters, or cause commotions, and O’Neill was received in peace.
“He went to Tari, conducted his rally, and he left safely.
“I thank the people of Hela for allowing O’Neill in to do his campaigning in the true spirit of democracy.
“This is the type of mindset and attitude I want to see spread right around the country, especially in this election period, when we do not want to see violence.
“People should be allowed to listen freely to all candidates, and from there, make up their minds and vote for the candidate of their choice.”
***