By Samantha Roger- UPNG Journalism Student
MEMBER for Kandep, Hon. Don Polye has raised concerns over the misuse of social media platforms to attack Members of Parliament (MPs).
He stated that such actions are causing division and undermining national unity.
Polye specifically criticized the use of social media to circulate offensive content featuring images of the Prime Minister and other MPs.
“They are antagonizing us by posting these statements on social media, which is deeply damaging to our leaders and is fragmenting solidarity. This should not happen,” Polye said.
He pointed out that several MPs, including himself, have been targets of disrespectful and defamatory posts, adding that such behavior is an affront to leaders who are committed to serving the nation.
“Our young Papua New Guineans need to understand that what they are doing is destroying the country by attacking the very leaders who are guiding them,” he said.
Polye also highlighted the need for collective progress, urging citizens to rise above provincialism and ethnocentrism.
“Our main goal as a nation is to move forward together and transform ourselves for the better, not to categorize and divide ourselves based on personal biases,” he said.
Acknowledging human imperfection, Polye urged Papua New Guineans to foster a culture of support rather than destruction. “Every human being has their flaws, but we should strive to build each other up instead of tearing each other down,” he stated.
Polye also appealed to social media users to cease spreading profanity and hatred, advocating instead for the creation of a space built on love and unity, which he believes is essential for national progress.
