OPPOSITION leader Sir Mekere Morauta has paid tribute to senior magistrate Ivo Cappo who was killed following an accident in Port Moresby last weekend.
Sir Mekere, who is overseas, said in a statement that he was shocked by the incident and extended his condolences to the family.
He said Cappo was a true Papua New Guinean who embraced everyone irrespective of whether they were Highlanders or people from the coast.
“Although he was a very senior public servant and a high-profile member of the magisterial service, he was held in high esteem by people from all walks of life,” he said.
“He was well regarded by his peers and his death leaves a vacuum.”
Sir Mekere, who is the MP for Moresby North West, said Cappo’s killing breached all norms of civilisation and human decency.
“No one has the right to take somebody else’s life, and I wonder what kind of people can commit such heinous acts,” he said and called on the police to ensure that those responsible were brought to justice.
“People who have no regard and respect for life must be made accountable for their actions.”
Sir Mekere also praised the people for exercising great control over the matter so far and urged them to continue to pursue redress through the lawful avenues.