Father Victor Roche

Alleged FB ban bad news: Fr Victor

In a press briefing today, Father Victor said it is sad that people defame leaders and others through social media.

However, he believes the Minister for Communication should take action through legal means rather than attempt to ban Facebook or social media.

He says this is a time Papua New Guinea wants to showcase itself to other member countries of APEC, to show that we are up-to-date with development and human rights.

Minister Sam Basil’s plan to shut down Facebook follows rising concerns about social well-being, security and productivity.

Death toll reached 55: CBC

This is according to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference based on reports received from the Mendi Diocese in SHP.

General Secretary for Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands, Father Victor Roche, said coordination amongst authorities, churches and parties on ground is key during this trying time. 

Initial reports provided by the Mendi Diocese following the earthquake confirm 20 deaths in Hela Province and 35 in parts of Mendi.

Church calls for transparent government

Sir John Ribat and Father Victor Roche are also calling on citizens to exercise calm, peace and patience as we await the announcement of the country’s next Prime Minister.

They are also calling on candidates who lost the elections to accept defeat and refrain from engaging in violence.

Furthermore, the country also has a lot to learn from the 2017 National General Elections.