No Independence celebrations in Hagen town

Western Highlands Governor Wai Rapa says public events hosted by the provincial government have sometimes turned violent, especially among youth, and today's Independence Day will be observed quietly. (NBC News)

Western Highlands will mark Papua New Guinea’s 51st Independence Day without a major provincial celebration.

Governor Wai Rapa said the provincial government decided this after observing the way recent public events have been conducted.

Instead of bringing people together, some events have ended up in fights, that have caused a lot of destruction.

“We must ask ourselves, what is the real meaning of Independence? It is not about fighting, drinking, or destroying property. Independence is about our people, our freedom, and taking responsibility for our country.” Rapa said.

Governor Rapa stressed that youth are an important part of the country’s future, but they must understand that Independence Day is more than just a public celebration.

He added that the province wants the youth to start thinking about their role in building Western Highlands and Papua New Guinea.

“We want our young people to understand why we celebrate Independence. We want them to respect the country, respect each other, and think about what they can do for the future," Rapa added.

The Governor also said the decision does not mean Western Highlands will ignore Independence Day. People are free to mark the day peacefully in their own communities, churches, homes, and families. But there will be no major provincial government-hosted celebration.

While canceling the provincial celebrations, Governor Rapa reiterated that it's also a time for the province to look at how future public events can be organised in a more peaceful and meaningful way.

“Celebration must not become an excuse for violence. If we cannot celebrate peacefully, then we have to step back and think about what we are doing," he said.

Governor Rapa (middle) and his PEC after making the decision not to stage Independence Day celebrations in Hagen.(NBC News)

The Western Highlands Governor has also called on parents, community leaders, the churches, and the youth to take responsibility for keeping the communities peaceful.

He said Independence Day should be a time to appreciate the freedom Papua New Guineans have and to think about the work still needed to improve the country.

An Independence Day dawn service at 6am this morning was hosted by members of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary [RPNGC] and Governor Rapa at Independence Hill.