By GINNAH MINI
MINISTER for Police and Internal Security Sir John Pundari has issued a strong warning that there will be zero tolerance for gun violence during the 2027 National General Election.
Sir John said candidates who could not win an election without relying on illegal firearms should not contest, warning that they would not be allowed to disrupt a peaceful election or undermine the democratic rights of citizens.
While addressing the media at the State Function Room at Parliament House, Sir John said the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) would ensure that the election was free and fair for all Papua New Guineans.
“Police operations will consider the election as people’s election and not candidate elections,” Sir John said.
“Candidates must not disrupt peaceful elections.”
He said police would operate independently during the election to ensure a safe and secure polling period while respecting the rights of every citizen.
“Be assured that you (candidates) will be enemy number one if you want to win the election with illegal guns,” Sir John said.
He also warned supporters who backed candidates using illegal firearms that they could be treated as accomplices in attempts to steal an election through violence.
He said the full force of the law would be applied to candidates, supporters and other accomplices involved in election-related violence.
“Accomplices, supporters, including candidates, surrender your guns and don’t be tempted by it and think that you will use it at the time of election,” he said.
“No one should support a candidate who uses illegal firearms, for he is a criminal,” the Minister said.
“You will be a criminal too if you support them.”
Sir John further warned sitting members who relied on illegal firearms and intended to contest the 2027 election that they would be unfit to hold public office and could face criminal consequences.
He urged all candidates and their supporters to surrender illegal firearms and allow the 2027 National General Election to proceed peacefully and without intimidation or violence.