Conduct study on black magic
WE should introduce strict laws to punish people who execute others accused of sorcery.
Those found practising sorcery or witchcraft must also be severely punished.
I raised the issue a couple of years ago and note that the phenomenon has come under the spotlight again recently.
Many people living in both the rural and urban communities are affected.
Sorcery, as I understand it, is the craft of using black magic or unseen forces to cause misfortune, harm and even death to others.
Usually, there is little or no evidence.
People who do not believe in it argue that the belief is based on superstitions even though it has a huge influence on others.
First, the old practice of killing suspected sorcerers must stop.
Whether we believe in it or not, it has to be agreed that it is a problem that needs attention.
I suggest an extensive survey be carried out by the authorities with the full backing of the media to gauge the views of villagers, alleged sorcerers, doctors, the police and educated elites.
I am confident that the findings will be a real eye-opener.
Armed with the information, we can then review the laws to severely punish sorcerers and those who kill them.
Until a serious approach is taken to address this issue, killings will continue.

Upisa Wana, Port Moresby
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