Support the fight for women
IT seems that the issue of violence against women is becoming a bigger concern for all Papua New Guineans. Now and then, we read and see articles in the newspapers about women being raped, tortured, killed or other inhuman acts inflicted upon them by men. All our mothers and sisters are now living in fear. Their rights to freedom and moving around have been restricted. Women today are trying to address this issue but they need support from the men. It is good to see that the only woman Member of Parliament and Minister for Community Development Dame Carol Kidu petitioning the Government to do something about violence against women. There is support for the petition from men in the formal and informal sectors. This is a good sign. Church groups, NGOs, business groups and Government members elected must all stand together and support the fight against violence on women. – Robin L, Madang

Respect our womenfolk
I AM disgusted with the behaviour of some PNG men. Our women too have rights, just like any citizen of this country. Please have respect for our womenfolk. Man comes from the womb of a woman. I call on the Government to toughen the law on those guilty of committing such crime. Sending a man to jail for 10, 20 or 25 years does not work. We need stiffer penalties. – Kari Siwi, via email

Why increase Unitech fees?
THERE has been no explanation as to why Unitech is increasing its fees next year. If it is because of the current debt situation, then authorities must investigate how the funds were spent. Those responsible for causing this situation must be dealt with. If all fairness, if there were to be increase in school fees, then university administration should give at least a year’s notice. – Unitech supporter, via email

Suggestions for students
I AM a former Unitech student and it is sad the university is making headlines for the wrong reasons lately. While I support some of the students’ actions, attacking administration members is wrong. I know the silent majority do not agree with some of the actions of the minority but there is nothing much they can do. I have some suggestions for the student leaders. They are – demand an explanation for the increase; demand for an external auditing of the university’s books and accounts; demand for a budget break-up and areas of spending; ask staff members to pay more for their rental accommodation, pay the cost of water and sewage; and, insist that operational cost of the university be reduced such as telephone, power, water and fuel. – Lucky tree, via email

Bigi is a real parent
I REFER to the report “Father sues defiant son in village court” (Oct 11). I would like to commend the action of the father Buka Bigi. His action is an eye opener for the nation and must be treated as a lesson for everyone in PNG. The legislative/judiciary should make a law that students who are “too hambak”" should appear in court. I support Bigi in his effort to save his son. He is the real parent. – Drex G, Jiangnan, China

Railway idea timely
THE Government’s foresight in developing a railway system is timely (Oct 8). Railways adopted by most countries around the world are cheaper to maintain and can last longer. If the proposed railway system is properly planned and executed, it will not only save the Government millions of kina but also minimise transport costs for businesses and ordinary citizens. I think this proposal will suit the needs of the people. – David Ketepa Ulg, Georgia, USA

PNG should turn to rail
THE road transport network proposal to link Port Moresby to the Highlands and Momase by the Minister of Public Works and Transport is commendable. But I believe the minister must also look into other options which may be easier and cheaper to maintain in the long run. Look at Australia and Japan. Both countries have extensive railway network which they use for transporting goods and cargoes as well as commuting. Take Ramu Sugar for example. Sugar can be sent to Lae port in only one shipment, saving hundred of hours and money. A lot of countries are now turning to rail and PNG should do so too. – Nemona Kanareki, via email

 

 
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