Prime Minister James Marape has welcomed the voluntary surrender of firearms by communities in Mendi and Hela, describing the exercise as a positive response to the Government’s efforts to restore peace and security in the Highlands.
Mr. Marape specifically commended Mendi community leader Steven Temo for leading firearm surrender efforts despite suffering personal losses during election-related violence in 2022.
Related news: https://www.pmnec.gov.pg/prime-minister-marape-commends-gun-surrenders-calls-for-nationwide-return-of-illegal-firearms/
He said Mr. Temo’s decision to promote peace rather than retaliation demonstrated strong leadership and set an example for communities across the country.
The Prime Minister also thanked tribes in Mendi that have handed over weapons and urged other communities nationwide to follow suit, warning that the Government will intensify enforcement against illegal firearms after September 16 this year.
“I want to especially commend Mr. Steven Temo, a respected young leader from Mendi, for showing tremendous leadership and courage,” Prime Minister Marape said in a statement.
“In 2022, Mr. Temo and his family suffered greatly from election-related violence. His younger brother died, two other relatives died, and his people suffered enormously.
Despite this pain and loss, he chose not to retaliate or participate in tribal fighting that could have destroyed many communities.
“Today, for him to stand up and encourage his tribesmen to return firearms that have been held by tribes for many years, largely for self-defense, is leadership of the highest order.”
Prime Minister Marape said communities across the country must follow the example being set in Mendi and Hela, warning that firearms often become a source of destruction rather than protection.
“Too many communities have become prisoners of guns. When people continue to hold firearms believing they provide security, eventually those same weapons destroy families, tribes and communities,” he said.
The Prime Minister acknowledged that many illegal weapons had been acquired over many years for protection purposes but stressed that long-term security must come from law enforcement agencies rather than armed groups or tribal protection systems.
“We want people to trust police and lawful institutions again. Government will continue increasing police presence, so communities no longer feel the need to provide their own security.”
Mr. Marape also commended leaders in Hela Province who have begun returning firearms and urged all remaining communities throughout Papua New Guinea to do the same.
“I call upon every other tribe, leader and community throughout our country to follow what leaders in Mendi and Hela are doing right now.”
“Return illegal weapons now while there is still opportunity.”
The Prime Minister warned that the Government would significantly strengthen enforcement measures after Independence celebrations this year.
“After September 16 this year, we will step up enforcement significantly against those who continue to hold illegal firearms and ammunition.
“Whether factory-made weapons or homemade firearms, illegal possession carries severe penalties, including life imprisonment.”
“We want communities to understand that Government is serious.”
Mr Marape said the Government’s security operation, Kumul 23, would continue maintaining a strong presence throughout the Highlands and other affected provinces.
“Kumul 23 operations will continue in places requiring additional security support.”
”The headquarters and operations established in Mendi will remain active and continue linking operations into Enga, Hela, Southern Highlands and surrounding areas.”
He said maintaining strong security operations ahead of the 2027 National General Election was essential.
“We want a gun-free election in 2027.
“People must vote based on leadership, policies and performance — not because they are intimidated, threatened or coerced by individuals carrying guns.
“Democracy must belong to the people, not to weapons.”
Prime Minister Marape again praised Mr. Temo’s decision, describing it as an example for other leaders throughout the country.
“Mr. Temo has contested many elections, may contest again in future, and remains a respected leader in his area.
“For someone in his position to encourage the surrender of weapons traditionally held by tribes is a powerful example.
“I commend him, I commend his people, and I encourage all Papua New Guineans to follow this path towards peace.”