Dr. Temu added that PNG needed to move forward as a developing country and everyone should make a concerted effort to be involved in awareness to educate people more about respecting women and the important roles they play within our communities.
He said as deputy prime minister, he will push for more programs that encourage citizens to participate equally in their respective communities where men and women could harmoniously share decision making roles in the homes and at the work place.
The government will also continue to support the work of organizations the fight against gender violence, Temu said.
He was speaking at a small presentation ceremony at Parliament House organized by the White Ribbon ambassadors, the national group to speak out for women and children’s rights, where he received his official badge as a White Ribbon ambassador.
He joins a group of prominent Papua New Guineans and White Ribbon ambassadors that include Governor-General Sir Paulias Matane, Police Commissioner Gari Baki, Chief Ombudsman Chronox Manek, Community Development Minister Dame Carol Kidu, and former chief ombudsman Ila Geno.
Manek, in a statement, said the White Ribbon campaign was initiated to denounce violence and pledged not to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women in any form and to promote gender equality and respect for human rights.
Manek encouraged men, in particular, to take a strong stand on the importance of ending violence and to make this Christmas their resolve to respect women and children and help in promoting peace and harmony within their home, family, community and country.
