By ANDREW ALPHONSE
SECURITY force personnel engaged to provide
security for the 2007 elections have been warned against taking bribes
from candidates.
Addressing about 3,000 security personnel in Mt Hagen last Saturday
after the biggest parade in PNG’s history, Police Commissioner Gari Baki
said members of the disciplined forces had sworn an oath to protect and
serve members of the public and this oath will be very important during
the national election.
Mr Baki warned that candidates and their supporters would be doing
anything to get into office including the use of force, threats and
bribery.
He said there had been instances in the past where candidates had bribed
the entire polling and security officials to allow them to have things
done their way.
“Make no mistake. You members will be approached. You will be offered
money. You may even be threatened. But I ask each one of you to stand
firm. Do not sell yourselves.
“Do not lose your dignity and self respect. Do not be bribed.”
He urged the security forces to remember that no amount of money can buy
back their dignity and self-respect.
“If you receive K50 now, you will be branded for life as a corrupt,
useless, good-for-nothing police, Defence or correctional officer.
People will lose their respect for you. They will talk behind your back
and laugh at you. This will affect your families, especially your wives
and children,” Mr Baki said.
He urged them not to take sides with any candidate but provide an
environment where people can cast their votes without fear or undue
influence.
He also warned candidates and their supporters against violence, threats
and intimidation.
He said they were ready to provide an environment free from threats,
intimidation, undue influence and foul play.
“We will not, I repeat, we will not tolerate threats, intimidation or
any foul play during the elections.
“You have one vote, go in, cast your vote and go home,” Mr Baki said.
But he said he expected a free, fair and trouble-free elections.
