Lae police did well in controlling riot

 ANTHONY Wagambie Jnr, his men and the Defence Force personnel at Lae’s Igam barracks must be commended for the outstanding professional and matured policing and controlling of the crowds during last week’s protest march in Lae. This is what the public expects from our disciplinary forces. 

Although the march was illegal, the police and military under the command of Wagambie have to adhere to their code of conduct to protect lives and properties. They have not denied the citizens freedom of speech and suppress the citizens from expressing their views but they have made sure the citizens express their views within the laws. 

Some of the protestors have assaulted the police and defence officers by swearing at them, criticizing them and mocking them but no one from either forces have reacted with emotions.

They have also proven that with limited manpower and logistics, we can address conflicting issues in our societies. 

They were very quick to respond to the crowds building up in different parts of the city and brought order. This is a great job, a demonstration of maintaining order and professionalism by our two forces in Lae. 

Morobe Governor Kelly Naru has also demonstrated what elected parliamentarian leaders must do. They should not just showed up just to launch or open projects and attend ground breaking ceremonies but should be with the people to address their concerns.

Wagambie Jnr and the Lae based Defence Force have earned the publics’ respect.

Our police officers and defence force in Port Moresby should compromise and follow in the pursuits of Wagambie Jnr and the Defence Force in Lae.

It is a great lesson for all our disciplinary forces to work together for the common good of our people and the society. 

Stanley Kumasimba

Sydney, Australia