Key law and order reforms proposed for Hela

Hela Governor Philip Undialu has called on the people of Hela to rally behind four sweeping law-and-order reforms announced at the official launch of the Make Hela Safe Again – Gun Surrender Program yesterday in Tari Town.

He said these are necessary steps towards finding lasting solutions to tribal fighting, retaliation and destruction in the province.

Governor Undialu proposed a stronger provincial mechanism chaired by the Provincial Administrator Ronny Angu and deputised by the Provincial Police Commander (PPC), with key sectors represented.

"Subject to enabling legislation, the committee would coordinate responses to tribal fighting, strengthen early-warning systems, protect essential services and infrastructure, and coordinate responses in declared fighting or high-risk zones," he said.

He said people who organise, finance, command or participate in serious violence must no longer be glorified by the term “warlord.” Where there is lawful basis and sufficient evidence, they must be investigated, arrested where legally justified, charged and prosecuted as criminals.

"No individual should be above the law because of their influence, reputation or clan position," he said.

Governor Undialu proposes increasing compensation for a proven killing to K100,000 plus 100 huge-life pigs, subject to legislation and due process.

"The practice of token compensation must end. Most importantly, the burden must not automatically be shifted to an opposing clan. Whoever is legally found responsible must carry responsibility for the loss. Compensation must also never be used as a substitute for criminal justice," he said.

Governor Undialu elaborated that tribal fighting destroys homes, businesses, trade stores, vehicles, machinery, gardens, livestock and other assets worth hundreds of thousands or millions of kina.

He said these losses must be independently assessed and valued. The proposed system would recognise lives lost, injuries and property destroyed or lost.

"Where a legally liable party fails to meet a final compensation order, land and other assets could, where authorised by law, be independently valued and used through lawful enforcement mechanisms to meet the obligation.

“Hela cannot continue doing the same thing and expect a different result. We must be prepared to change the way we deal with killing, fighting and destruction and compensation practices.

“Traditional reconciliation remains important, but it must work alongside the law and must not replace criminal justice,” Governor Undialu said.

The Governor is calling on traditional leaders, churches, women, youths, landowners, victims, government agencies and all people of Hela to rally behind these reforms and work together to Make Hela Safe Again.