Judge: Respect the uniform

By ZACHERY PER
A JUDGE has called on security personnel involved in the 2022 general election to respect the uniform they wear and not bring their forces into disrepute.
President of the National and Supreme Court Judges Justice Panuel Mogish made the call in Goroka on Monday while addressing members of the Police and Correctional Services during a parade staged to welcome the Supreme Court in Goroka this week.
“Members of the disciplined force, you have a huge role to play in this election, many allegations have always been levelled against you for bribery and corruption,” he said.
“The uniform you wear does not come from your mother and father, it comes from the Government of PNG, from the tax payer.
“When you wear the uniform, wear it with pride and be on top of everything.
“If anyone wants to corrupt you, must say ‘no’ and your actions must educate the people.”
Justice Mogish said members of the Police, Correctional Services and the Defence Force had a vital role to play during the elections to ensuring it was safe, fair and free.
He also called on the people, especially voters and supporters of candidates, to respect members of the security force and cooperate with them to have peaceful elections.
Judges of the National and Supreme Courts decided to have Supreme Court sittings in provinces instead of sitting in Waigani only.
Justice Mogish said Supreme Courts had already held in Kokopo, Kimbe, Alotau and this week it would be in the Eastern Highlands capital.
He said sittings would also be held in other provinces.