A senior Minister in the ruling Peoples National Congress Party (PNC) is appealing to opponents to stop smear campaigns in the 2017 National Election.
Minister for Trade, Commerce and Industry Richard Maru told Loop PNG that candidates must campaign on their policies and not lies.
“I think we have to stand on policies, why are you standing, what will do, that somebody else won’t do,” the Yangoru Sausssia MP said.
“That is what we must focus on, and not all the lies and propagandas like, PNC ‘salim kantri’ (sold the country), what do you mean by PNC salim kantri (sold the country)?
“This is a kind of bulls… going around in the electorate, candidates are talking to people in the village who do not understand the economy and do not have a formal education.
“If you think you are a leader, and will add value, tell them (voters) what makes you a good candidate for them to give you the mandate,” Maru said.
The first term MP is confident of returning for his second term.
“Last Thursday at my own home, people of Yangoru – Saussia walked up and gave K100, 000 in cash, contributed to fund my election.
“That is a clear indication that the people are right behind me.
“I have the support right across the entire four LLGs, I did not have the support in my last election, that I must say,” Maru told Loop PNG.
Sixteen candidates will be contesting for the Yangoru – Saussia Open in East Sepik Province.