Powi appeals to all: Stop violence

By HELEN TARAWA
Incumbent Southern Highlands governor in the 10th Parliament William Powi has appealed to his people to stop fighting and withdraw from all forms of violence.
Powi made the call following reports of fighting, burning of properties and destruction of Mendi town in the last two days.
“I condemn these killings and destruction of property. This is a backward stage we are taking, it’s shameful and it should not be promoted in the first instance,” he said.
He said it was a counting-related incident that had triggered ongoing violence in Mendi over the last 48-hours.
“I’m appealing to my people in Mendi, church leaders and the community, to stop this fight. This has resulted in a lot of destruction, torching of houses, lives lost.
“Three people have been confirmed dead from my area and more have suffered injuries.
“A lot of homes in town have been set alight and it’s a sad, avoidable trouble,” he said.
Powi said four open electorates had been completed and winners declared while the counting-related violence was centred on the regional seat.
“I want to appeal to my people, particularly in Mendi, to stop fighting.
“I do not promote violence, and I condemn this because parents, students and our business community have been affected.”