THE Catholic Professionals Society PNG has called on the government to make strong interventions regarding the escalating law and order issues affecting communities throughout the country. They are appealing for Law and Justice authorities to fully implement measures to address the prevailing law and order issues and allow them to run their course.
President of Catholic Professionals PNG, Paul Harricknen, expressed the need to stand in unity with the Law Society of PNG to implement countermeasures about the increasing law and order issues in the country.
Mr. Harricknen was very vocal about the poor law and order enforcement in the country and believes that part of the problem is the leadership failure in the relevant government agencies like Police, CIS and Defence organizations in the frontline.
“Where is the rule of law? The rule of law does not provide a guarantee for protection without enforcement of the law”, President Harricknen stated.
“Our communities in both urban and rural settings are not free and safe, especially for women and children. Government seems absent and wanting”.
He further stressed that people deserve a safe community and environment in which to freely walk around, and called on the responsible leaders in the government, including those in Police and Justice Departments, to take the lead.
President Harricknen also appealed to communities to refrain from criminal and illegal activities but to help promote a safe environment for their families.
He said that those participating in criminal activities are hurting themselves and people in their village.
“They should take ownership of their community, family, and country, and help advocate for a stronger and better nation”, President outlined. He highlighted the great need to stand up for what is right and condemn those engaging in illegal activities within society.
While the government can work on addressing its leadership among the frontline agencies, President Harricknen urged other church denominations to also join in the call to advocate for peace and promote harmony and peaceful coexistence amongst the communities, towns, and cities.
Mr. Harricknen expressed that PNG is a better place to stay, but that the leaders are only lacking in tightening up loose ends, as far as law and order and justice is concerned.
