National election violence

In a press release, the EU says it deplores the election-related inter-tribal violence in the Highlands region, in particular the wanton loss of lives in Enga Province.

The European Union is appealing to all to respect democratic principles by observing peaceful and orderly elections. 

Morobe Provincial Police Commander, Jacob Singura, said while they are yet to establish the cause of the incident, they are aware that it was between supporters of the incumbent MP, Rainbo Paita and former MP, Theodore Zurenuoc.

“We have investigators and reinforcement on the ground who will give us a detailed report on the initial cause of the incident but from reports received so far, Theodore Zurenuoc’s supporters lost a vehicle (10-seater), which was burnt by the current sitting Member’s supporters,” said Singura.

A police report was filed yesterday at the Morobe Provincial Police headquarters in Lae, stating that a group of men, armed with bush knives and slingshots, started terrorising the family members and supporters of candidate, Wagao Openg, on Sunday, 19^th June.

On Sunday afternoon, a group of men waited at the Timbe wara for Openg’s supporters, who had gone to Songin for the opening of his campaign posters.

The armed gang allegedly attacked a boy, a man and two women during that time and shredded a poster.