President of PNG Core Warns of Insurance Gaps Amidst Riot Damage in Port Moresby

 In a poignant statement, Allan Bird, the Governor of East Sepik in Papua New Guinea, lamented  the distressing turn of events that unfolded, expressing deep concern over the escalation of violence amidst disputes.

Reflecting on a day marred by destruction, Bird lamented, "A day I always feared occurred today." He highlighted a concerning shift in conflict resolution, observing that instead of dialogue, violent acts now seemed to be the chosen method to address grievances. The Governor expressed dismay over the wanton destruction of vital infrastructure such as classrooms, clinics, government buildings, and the ransacking of supermarkets, painting a bleak picture of what appears to be a disheartening cultural shift.

Acknowledging past grievances and their peaceful resolutions, Bird underscored the disheartening turn toward violence, citing instances where disputes were once settled through dialogue without resorting to such destructive measures. He specifically referenced police issues being previously addressed through established processes, contrasting it with the recent violent turn that led to property damage and loss of life.

The Governor painted a grim picture of the aftermath, highlighting the immediate repercussions of the chaos: burnt shops, stolen goods, and the distressing plight of countless families left without access to daily essentials. He emphasized the devastating impact on ordinary citizens, many of whom rely on daily purchases rather than bulk buying, likening the looted shops to gardens razed to ashes.

Expressing gratitude to the citizens of Sepik for maintaining peace in their town, Bird commended other provinces that similarly preserved civility amidst the turmoil. However, he urged reflection among those involved in the unrest, including members of the police force, cautioning them about the enduring consequences of their actions.

While acknowledging the frustrations within the country's governance, Bird implored for restraint, urging citizens to exhaust all peaceful avenues before resorting to violence. He stressed that violence often hurts the innocent the most and called for a collective effort to avoid it at all costs.

The Governor ended his statement by highlighting the grim economic fallout, with businesses shutting down for several days, some facing closures for up to a year. He urged contemplation on the day's events, hoping that some positive change could emerge from this distressing chapter in Papua New Guinea's history.

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President of PNG Core Warns of Insurance Gaps Amidst Riot Damage in Port Moresby