Too much pride not enough unity

WITH recent happenings around the country it clearly shows that most problems and situations faced or encountered are self-inflicted.
We the people of Papua New Guinea have a major pride and attitude problem,
If it’s a traditional thing or custom thing or whichever it has really punished us in a way that greed, wantok-system, bribery, and most of all REGIONALISM have taken play.
To be a leader is one thing but to show fairness, understanding, unity and importantly respect is the prime ingredient lacking nowadays.
Papua New Guineans have a diverse culture with over 800 different languages which we should be proud of, but this pride has its price if we are not careful.
Back in our provinces and villages we are concerned and troubled with land disputes, people, customary obligations, and so on.
Everyone wants to be a leader, have more land, be respected, and have more knowledge. Most of this is passed on through family inheritance or traditional stories.
Many will argue that this is really important, but my point here is we should try another approach to obtaining all this accolades.
Let’s try earn this respect, show understanding and see how things will turn out.
From the villages we have taken this mentality to schools, work, disciplinary-forces and as far as the parliament.
How we fight for land and respect in our respective provinces is clearly being portrayed in fighting for power and ruling in the country.
Correct me if I am wrong but is it a norm in Papua New Guinea nowadays that when an individual holds a high position in the country all minor positions underneath get made up of the individuals family members (immediate and extended). It represents regionalism and nepotism.
There is no unity and patriotism!
We need to start saying that we are Papua New Guinea, be proud in the right way and show unity.
This attitude of “paitim bros” (beating your chest) and showing you are superior is useless.
Whether you hold a high position, wear a police/army uniform, it shouldn’t put fear to people. You are there for the people, humility is all you need.
Acting superior, individually may have an effect in some way but as a whole, a community, a society and a country it’s a burden.
Lead by the right ways, show knowledge, church virtues, understanding, and earn this respect. All this have contributed to issues faced these days.
I pray that we as a country can unite and show more togetherness.
Earn respect and positions, show respect and understanding, be fair and neutral, and see the outcomes.

Maihua Pharric
Port Moresby