Turi: No protest tomorrow 

A social media widespread on a planned protest set for tomorrow will not eventuate, according to a police official.

The Acting Assistant Commissioner to Police NCD/Central Commander Benjamin Turi said he is aware of certain individuals circulating a message on social media, calling for a protest to take place, however no application to host a protest has reached his office for consideration and approval.

He labeled the chain as misinformation and irresponsible from a few minorities with no respect to process in place for holding protests.   

“I encourage all residents of Port Moresby to disregard this social media misinformation, and continue with their daily routines knowing that NCD/Central Police are on-the-job and focused on enforcing the law," Turi said. 

“Under my watch as NCD/Central Commander, there will be no illegal protest that will place public safety at risk. There is a clear process to apply for protests, and if there are illegal protests that do not respect established and proper practice, it will not be entertained.”

He said such protest activities without approval from his office are often hijacked by criminals with ulterior motives and a desire to cause civil unrest.

“We all remember what happened on Black Wednesday when protestors proved that they were not civilized to respect other people's property and lives,” Turi said.

⁠” Any attempt of conducting an illegal protest will see the law is enforced and participants will be dealt with accordingly.”

The NCD/Central Commandant said there are stringent requirements that must be met in the interests of the broader community.  

He said it is unfair on the residents, workers and businesses to have streets blocked without warning or awareness being undertaken.

Mr. Turi said police will prioritize safety of the public and they will not be compromised by an illegal protest.

Meanwhile, all parents, students and school administrators have been urged to allow their students to attend school, and not take part in the proposed protest tomorrow.

Education Minister, Lucas Dawa Dekena, said this in a statement, when commenting on a widely circulated wattsapp message, calling for a nationwide protest starting on Wednesday.

Minister Dekena says that the planned mass protests across the country, has not been approved by the relevant authorities, and is therefore considered illegal.

He says that though the Ministry of Education recognizes the right to peaceful assembly and the expression of grievances, any action that disrupts the educational process, and jeopardizes the learning environment for all students is unacceptable.

The Minister has also encouraged individuals and groups with concerns or grievances, to utilize official and legal channels, and not abuse the process.