Soldiers not backing protest: Commander

THE PNG Defence Force (PNGDF) does not support any protest against the Coronavirus (Covid-19) vaccination programme, says Lae Area Commander (Navy) Alexson Barish Hannema.
He rubbished claims that the PNGDF was behind the protest last Friday in Lae. “This is not true,” he said.
“This (rumour) is made up by civilians to con others to join them and push their agenda.
“The PNGDF personnel are no way taking part.”
A post last week through social media mentioned that Opposition Leader Belden Namah and Enga MP Don Polye would join the protest in Lae.
Lae Metropolitan Chief Supt Chris Kunyanban expressed concern over such misinformation.
He urged the people to use official avenues to raise their concerns. “When police say that the protest is not the acceptable approach, go through church leaders or local community leaders with your frustrations,” he said.
“Illegal protests might affect other services and we’ll have even bigger issues.”