Emulate Allen, say no to graft

The Member for Unggai-Bena and Minister for Environment and Conservation Benny Allen has made a bold statement that must not only be commended but emulated by all Papua New Guineans, especially political leaders on both sides of the House.
PNG has an open-door policy to investment and it is obvious that some fly-by-night profiteers are bound to get on the band wagon.
It is up to all of us as a people, at all levels of our society, to say “NO” to bribery and corruption. We must stop blaming the foreigners and the system.
We, as a people, are allowing graft and corrupt practices to flourish because we allow it in the first place by saying “YES.” All it takes is a two letter word – NO.
Political leaders must set the benchmark for the people.
The future direction and development of this country depends almost entirely on the political will and vision of our leaders.
These corrupt operators know that if they can get to the big boys, the deal is as good as done.
If you are a facilitator, you get away with your commission, which is more than your two weeks pay but remember that you have not only sold yourself but your people and your country.
It is therefore very important for all of us, especially our leaders at all levels of our society to exercise discretion and willpower to resist the offer of very attractive inducements in cash or kind.
Allen, you have done your people and country proud by taking a stand on such a very important issue.
Some of our pristine environments (flora/fauna/fish etc) are being depleted at very alarming rates.
Man made “natural disasters” are being perpetrated against our environment in broad daylight, facilitated by our own people. Know it or not, Papua New Guinea is one of the very last frontiers: forests everywhere are gone.
Foreigners know this for a fact, we don’t. It needs a man of courage to stem the tide of wanton looting and destruction without due regard for the environment and the people.
Enough is enough – let us all rise with one accord and say NO to corruption.
May the Fear of the Lord continue to guide the minister and all like-minded people of this nation to make a stand today.

Allan Kamale
7 Mile