Former PNG Prime Minister O'Neill Raises Concerns Over Secret Security Deal with China
Former Papua New Guinea Prime Minister, Peter O'Neill, expressed deep concern over the revelation that the country's Minister of Foreign Affairs is engaging in discussions with China regarding internal police and security arrangements.
O'Neill emphasized the historical alliance between Papua New Guinea and Australia in matters of security, pointing out the shared values in democratic and human rights principles. He underscored the long-standing partnership with Australia as the key provider of security for Papua New Guinea and the broader Pacific region.
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| Former PNG Prime Minister O'Neill Raises Concerns Over Secret Security Deal with China |
Despite China being Papua New Guinea's largest trading partner and an important international ally, O'Neill questioned the current government's decision to enter into a secret security deal with China last year. He also raised concerns about the ongoing discussions regarding policing and security arrangements.
The former Prime Minister criticized the current government, led by Prime Minister James Marape, for potentially jeopardizing the nation's security by aligning with China. O'Neill accused Marape of undermining the independence and effectiveness of the PNG Police service, citing instances where the Commissioner of Police allegedly acted at the Prime Minister's directive.
O'Neill highlighted the recent Port Moresby riots in mid-January as evidence of the division and lack of control within the PNG Police service. He questioned whether Marape intends to utilize Chinese security forces to exert direct control over the police and military, raising concerns about a potential shift towards authoritarianism.
Expressing worry over a possible disregard for democratic processes, O'Neill called for attention to be directed towards restoring public and investor confidence in the country's law-and-order situation. He urged the Police Minister, rather than the Foreign Affairs Minister, to investigate and address the challenges faced by the PNG Police service.
Mr. O'Neill urged Prime Minister Marape and the Foreign Minister to reconsider their approach to the security developments, emphasizing that Papua New Guinea has the resources to maintain order and prosperity without compromising its democratic values. He cautioned against seeking external control mechanisms that could further erode the nation's democracy.
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