Commentary by George Lemako In recent years, Hela and Enga provinces have been consuming a disproportionate amount of Papua New Guinea's wealth, primarily due to the persistent breakdown of law and order. It is estimated that around 20% of the country's resources are annually funneled into these provinces to combat the ongoing turmoil. This allocation of resources reflects a serious and chronic issue that has long plagued these areas, raising significant concerns among Papua New Guineans. These provinces, rich in natural resources such as liquefied natural gas (LNG), gold, and copper, paradoxically remain hotbeds of violence and instability. Despite their economic potential, the wealth generated from these resources has not translated into peace or development. Instead, local leaders have been implicated in perpetuating the cycle of violence by supplying firearms, rigging elections, and hiring mercenaries to eliminate rivals. This troubling situation has caught the attention of many, including Enga Governor Sir Peter Ipatas. He has publicly questioned why the government and law enforcement agencies have consistently failed to address the escalating law and order issues in his province. Sir Peter's frustration is palpable as he cites numerous instances where authorities have neglected to investigate and prosecute those involved in electoral violence and tribal conflicts.
The recent manmade disaster related to the General Election 2022 in Enga highlights the severity of the issue. The ongoing tribal fights, which have devastated communities and caused millions of Kina in property damage, underscore the urgent need for effective intervention. Sir Peter specifically points to the Kompiam Ambum tribal fight, triggered by election disputes, which has now spread to Wabag, affecting multiple tribes. As governor, Sir Peter feels compelled to inform the public about the government's failure to manage law and order in the province. His calls for enhanced law enforcement and government intervention have repeatedly gone unheeded, leaving the province in a state of perpetual crisis. The lack of response from the authorities is not only disheartening but also indicative of a broader systemic issue within the governance of Papua New Guinea. The persistence of violence in Hela and Enga has led to the proliferation of high-powered firearms among the youth, who see gunmen for hire as a lucrative, albeit dangerous, occupation. This trend exacerbates the violence, leading to more deaths and destruction. The government's inability to track and shut down the supply of these weapons is a critical failure that needs urgent attention. The dire situation in these provinces calls for a comprehensive and multifaceted approach. Addressing the root causes of the violence, such as political corruption, lack of economic opportunities, and inadequate law enforcement, is crucial. The government must prioritize the restoration of law and order, ensuring that perpetrators of violence are held accountable and that the rule of law is firmly reestablished. Furthermore, there needs to be a concerted effort to involve the community in peace-building initiatives. Traditional leaders, civil society organizations, and the broader community must be engaged in dialogue and conflict resolution processes. Only through a collaborative effort can the cycle of violence be broken, and a path towards sustainable peace and development be forged. Ultimately, the situation in Hela and Enga is a stark reminder of the need for strong and effective governance. The country's leadership must rise to the challenge, addressing not only the immediate security concerns but also the underlying issues that fuel the unrest. It is only through such comprehensive efforts that Papua New Guinea can hope to reclaim the resources currently being lost to conflict and redirect them towards building a prosperous and peaceful future for all its citizens. Also read Comments are closed.
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