By MIRIAM MALAWA
PROMINENT figures, including Belden Norman Namah, MP, have expressed deep concern and frustration over the recent government directives to recover stolen goods in the aftermath of widespread civil unrest on January 10.
Prime Minister James Marape and Minister for Internal Security, Peter Tsiamalili Jnr, are under scrutiny for what critics describe as a misguided and impractical response to the current crisis.
The directive, which is now part of the State of Emergency (SOE) Orders, has sparked controversy as citizens question its logic and relevance given the prevailing circumstances.
Critics argue that this move, reminiscent of military operations in post-conflict regions, is neither strategic nor focused on the immediate needs of the affected population.
Namah, a veteran in the military, has been vocal in denouncing the orders, calling them “complete nonsense” and pointing out the impracticality of recovering stolen goods while shops lay in ruins.
He stressed that the priority should be on restoring law and order, ensuring the safety of citizens, and rebuilding businesses that have suffered extensive damage.
The decision to prioritize the recovery of stolen goods over addressing the overarching security and law and order situation in the country has raised eyebrows.
Critics claim that this move reflects a lack of strategic thinking and analytical reasoning on the part of the government.
The decision to prioritize the recovery of stolen goods over addressing the overarching security and law and order situation in the country has raised eyebrows.
Critics claim that this move reflects a lack of strategic thinking and analytical reasoning on the part of the government.
“The government should be concentrating more on restoring law and order, returning peace, and normalcy in Port Moresby and throughout the country,” Namah said.
Meanwhile, business owners, particularly those whose establishments have been destroyed, are urging the government to focus on rebuilding efforts and providing stimulus packages rather than diverting resources towards recovering stolen goods. They argue that financial restitution for losses may be a more practical and immediate solution to address their concerns.
Meanwhile, business owners, particularly those whose establishments have been destroyed, are urging the government to focus on rebuilding efforts and providing stimulus packages rather than diverting resources towards recovering stolen goods. They argue that financial restitution for losses may be a more practical and immediate solution to address their concerns.
