Candidate in Usino-Bundi by-election arrested over alleged attack on rival supporter
Police have arrested and charged a candidate contesting the Usino-Bundi by-election following an alleged attack on a rival candidate's vehicle and threats made against its occupants.
Manu Yafi Kuna, a candidate representing the newly formed People’s Transformation Party, established by Raikos MP Kessy Sawang, was taken into custody yesterday by police at Ramu Sugar.
The incident is reported to have occurred around 7pm on Wednesday evening, when Kuna and his supporters allegedly chased down a vehicle belonging to PANGU Party candidate, Pewa Aimai.
The vehicle, driven by Ludwig Tom of Sausi Village, was en route to the Surinam Oil Palm Estate clinic in Dumpu to seek medical treatment for a sick child on board.
Other occupants included PANGU Party administrative officer Jojolala Simpson, her two-year-old child, and the Madang PANGU Party branch secretary, Daniel Apa Darok.
According to Simpson, Kuna was driving a white Toyota Land Cruiser with his wife and a group of armed supporters when they intercepted Aimai’s vehicle near the Surinam Estate gate.
“They swore at us and began swinging bush knives at the vehicle,” Simpson recounted.
“Kuna approached us and said, ‘Biknait na wai yupla kam? Yupla save olsem em base blo Emmanuel Kuna?’ - It's midnight and why did you take this route? This is Emmanuel Kuna's base.
"His supporters attempted to forcefully open the doors, and one of them tried to strike the driver, cutting off the vehicle’s side mirror in the process.”
The following day, Kuna and his younger brother allegedly returned to the polling site at Dumpu DPI Station and attempted to disrupt polling. Police were alerted and responded quickly, averting further escalation.
Kuna was later arrested at his campaign house and transported to Madang Town for formal charging, while his younger brother was detained at Ramu Police Station.
Madang Provincial Police Commander, Acting Superintendent Robert Baim, confirmed the arrests and said Kuna's bail will be considered once charges are formally laid.
PPC Baim condemned the incident and reiterated the need for all candidates and supporters to respect the election process.
"Violence and lawless behavior have no place in our democracy. Those who resort to such acts will face the full force of the law,” Baim said.
He commended the swift actions of law enforcement personnel, particularly Chief Inspector Luan and Field Commander Inspector Edward Alphones, for preventing the situation from escalating further.
Baim called on all people to uphold the democratic process with integrity, fairness, and peace.
“Let this be a warning. Any further breaches of election laws will be dealt with severely. We are committed to ensuring a free, fair, and safe election for every voter.”