Protest march postponed

THE planned protest march by anti-corruption activist Noel Anjo and non-governmental organisations, including students from the University of Papua New Guinea, to get the national government to resume parliament, among many outstanding issues, will not go ahead today. 
Acting metropolitan commander Supt Tokanini Akuila yesterday advised that the demonstration had been cancelled due to preparations for the country’s independence anniversary celebrations next week.
“I have received specific directions from the divisional commander to advise the public and protesters that the protest march has been cancelled and postponed to Sept 23.
“Reasons are because this is the time when everyone is into a lot of activities in lead-up to the independence celebrations,” Akuila told reporters yesterday.
“Also, we do not want our police force to be thrown into a lot of activities since we would also like to plan properly for the 35th anniversary.”
Akuila, who is the administration superintendent at the Boroko police station, is acting in Fred Yakasa’s place, who is away overseas.
Police said Anjo and his followers had also agreed to the postponement.
Anjo, who was also at yesterday’s conference, said he respected the decision of the police and, at the same time, pleaded for public peace and order today.
“The decision reached is for the good of the people and I respect that, but we will go ahead with the march after the independence to demand the government to convene parliament so certain outstanding issues like the Maladina and the environment amendment bills and the controversial reappointment of the governor-general are addressed,” he said.
Anjo said he would continue with his public awareness until the march.