Morobeans must set the standard

AS a Morobean, I think it is vital for us to set some standards for others to follow.
I would not blame the highlanders for the recent unrest and lawlessness as many Morobeans also contributed to the law and order problems in Lae.
For example, most of the problems at Back Road, Bumbu, Voco Point, China Town, Hunter, Boundary Road and the Miles areas are caused by Morobeans.
The burning down of property and houses of innocent people living and working in Lae was not right and it will not solve or eliminate lawlessness.
Just look at youths roaming the streets.
It is hard to pinpoint they belong to a particular ethnic group or come from one region.
If we want to set standards, then we must take the lead in respecting other people and ourselves, property and the place we live in.
Using weapons or violence to solve issues or problems is un-Morobean.
If we look at our history, our forefathers brought religion to the highlands region and this relationship went back a long way.
In addition, intermarriages and religion brought us all together as one family.
Most of the victims in the recent riot were innocent and many had come to Lae to work and do business for a long time.
The Hageners, Engans, Southern Highlanders and Eastern Highlanders are members of the Lutheran church and they had refrained from taking the law into their hands.
Not all Morobeans were victims of pickpockets, rapes and harassments in Eriku and other areas but those from provinces as well.
Maintaining self-res­pect and integrity is very important in any society.
What do we hope to achieve from burning hou­ses and destroying other people’s property?
This is not the answer.
Lae is now a multicultural society and our actions must reflect the true spirit of Christianity and principles of a democratic society.
As a Morobean, I appeal to our leaders, especially Lord Mayor James Khay, Lae MP Bart Philemon, Governor Luther Wenge, Lutheran church leaders, leaders from all settlements and other law-abi­ding citizens to convene an open forum to come up with better and effective solutions to law and order problems.
The landowners of Lae and the surrounding vicinity too must have some control over leasing and selling of land to people and businesses.
We need to set some standards for settlers to follow regardless of origin or ethnicity.
If we preach about Christian values and principles, we must show it in our actions, especially in a si­tuation like this.

D. Loth
Lae