Keep emotions in check, leaders told

National
Source:
The National,Tuesday July 5th, 2016

 By FREDRICK JEJERI
POLITICAL leaders should refrain from making any emotional statements and stand as leaders to address issues, Northern regional assistant police commissioner Peter Guinness says.
Guinness said emotional statements involving sensitive issues such as the killing of a student at the  University of Technology in Lae and burning down of properties a week ago could ignite violence.
“Unlike Moresby, Lae was well-maintained through open dialogue between police, students’ representatives and the University of Technology without any injuries, damage or threats during the boycott of classes,” he said.
“The incident (killing) occurred after the situation had calmed down following an assurance between Southern Highlands and Enga students to have reconciliation the next day.
“All the parties were well aware of the event.
“Police were at the campus but did not go to the extreme of dispersing fire arms which could have injured more people.”
Imbonggu MP Francis Awesa blamed the police and Unitech’s administration for the death of a first-year lands and surveying student.
“Facts should be obtained from Lae police and Unitech before issuing of such statements concerning our work,” Guinness said.