PORT MORESBY (Pacnews) — After three decades as an independent, sovereign nation, Papua New Guinea is still “a country in turmoil and poor” despite its vast natural resources, says Lae businessman and co-founder of New Generation Party, Sir Bob Sinclaire.
“It failed to improve the well-being of the people because of political instability and weak economic management. Poverty is pervasive with significant regional disparities, health facilities and education are sub-standard and unemployment is high as the population growth accelerates.” he said in a statement.
Sir Bob said this trend must now end.
“PNG must recover lost ground and advance for the benefit of current and future generations to come,” he said.
He said the New Generation Party’s paramount goal, when in government, is to serve the people of Papua New Guinea to ensure common prosperity and durable improvements.
“The New Generation Party aims to build a strong, vibrant and democratic society for present and new generations, with a strong emphasis on our children,” Sir Bob, who will be contesting the Morobe Regional seat, said.
He said there was political stability in the last five years but the National Alliance-led government failed to achieve much for reasons only known to NA leaders.
“The economy has now been stabilized at the macro level, thanks to Bart Philemon. However, we see no significant outcomes at the micro level — 85 percent of our population remains poor,” he said.
“The only significant government policy rural Papua New Guineans now enjoy and warmly accept is the district treasury roll-out program. It’s time now for us to redirect the course of Papua New Guinea,” he said.
Meanwhile, the commander of the special security operations in Southern Highlands province, Chief Superintendent Samson Mapi, has issued a stern warning to all members of the security forces to refrain from providing escorts and security for politicians and intending candidates for the upcoming national election.
He issued the warning after receiving reports that certain policemen were using police resources and going around with politicians and intending candidates in the province.
A directive has been issued by the commander to disarm anyone who is found to be providing such escorts, as part of the efforts to maintain neutrality and impartiality on the eve of the elections.
Mapi met with all ground commanders on Wednesday at the Agiru Center and issued a directive for them to disarm and lay disciplinary charges on anyone who is found to be providing unauthorized escorts for politicians.
Mapi said the governor-general, opposition leader and prime minister were the only people authorized to have police bodyguards and police personnel. Security personnel found providing escorts for members of Parliament or aspiring politicians will face disciplinary charges.