Issues must be addressed

The National Letters

MANY have observed that the General Election 2022 (GE22) has been much worse compared to past elections, while others argue that all elections have had their share of trouble and GE22 is no different.
While there may be truth on both fronts, what we are seeing today is not a one-off or isolated event.
Updating the common roll, security, logistics, contested appointment of elections officials, unlawful behaviour of candidates and supporters etc are key issues
but there are deeper underlying issues which serve as triggers for election violence and, if left unattended, General Election 2027 will rip this country apart, they include:

  • THE growing number of younger people as a result of dropping out from the education system.
    This isn’t just the case in urban centers, it’s also increasing in the rural communities.
    Feeling rejected and unemployed, many youths are heavily involved in drugs and unsociable behaviour.
    In tribal fights these vulnerable young people are used as machines and during elections, they are used by candidates as hit men to control polling booths, create chaos and cause mayhem;
  • EXPLOITATION of resource owners by government officials and foreign companies.
    This may not be so in all parts of the country, but it is prevalent up in the Highlands.
    Resources owners are feeling frustrated and angry over unfulfilled promises.
    The build-up of arms, especially in the upper Highlands, is a form of rebellion which manifested itself in the recent chaos.
    If not addressed, it may lead to a repeat of Bougainville crisis;
  • UNEVEN distribution of wealth leading to widening gap between the rich and poor.
    Poverty is a rich breeding ground for all sorts of negative behaviours and election violence is perceived as a form of struggle of the poor to have a share of wealth through political power;
  • UNEVEN sharing of political power.
    The 1-2-3 voting system naturally favours the sitting candidate.
    Frustrated supporters of losing candidates find ways to unleash their anger; and,
  • CORRUPTION. Corruption has become more than a political and economic issue, it permeates into all spheres, culture and levels our society.
    It completely breaks down the moral fabric of our society.
    The solution is a collective and proactive approach by all stakeholders at all levels.
    GE22 is a manifestation of corruption at the highest level.
    The new government needs to not only address the surface issues, but also those underlying ones as well.

Kelvin Waukave
EHP