By ELAI YAWAKE & ADAMS AWAPE
A peaceful march and prayer service was held today in Kagua Central, led by the Catholic youths of Kagua Catholic Church as part of a united call for peace, normalcy, and stability in the area.
The march was coordinated by the Catholic Youths under the leadership of Adam Awape, Eastern Deanery Catholic Youth Coordinator, with participation from St. Mary’s Primary School, the FSM Sisters, and members of the wider Christian faithful. The peaceful procession moved through Kagua Station and concluded at the Kagua Police Station, where a Holy Mass was celebrated.
The Holy Mass was led by Fr. Paul Leme, assisting priest of Kagua Catholic Church, together with Fr. Alex Remba, Fr. Justine Purisi from Sumi, Brother Peter and Brother Paul, alongside the youths and faithful Christians of Kagua Central.
The purpose of the peaceful march and Mass was to dedicate prayers to God for mercy, reconciliation, and peace between the two tribes, and to call for an end to ongoing tensions affecting daily life in Kagua. Participants emphasized that education, health services, and other essential government services must function properly, and that public servants must be allowed to move freely and safely.
Speakers during the program stressed that despite past ups and downs, normalcy and stability must prevail in Kagua Central. They reiterated that violence only disrupts development and harms innocent communities, while peace creates space for progress and unity.
The peaceful protest was conducted with the full support and presence of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, who stood alongside the marchers to ensure order and safety throughout the event.
Organizers concluded the program by affirming that God must remain at the center of all efforts toward peace, stating that lasting peace can only be achieved through unity, forgiveness, and respect for life. They called on all leaders, youths, and community members to choose dialogue over conflict and to work together for a stable and peaceful Kagua.
“We need peace, normalcy, and stability. God is the only winner in all that we do on this earth,” the organizers said.