by Kiwiana Ngabung – EMTV Online, Port Moresby
As the polling period is just around the corner, we as citizens have to make it our responsibility to ensure a safe and transparent election.
Sadly, it has become somewhat “usual” for Papua New Guineans to expect reports of violence, bribery, “gris toktok”, human rights violations and much more during this period.
As a step to break down these reprehensible ways, civil society organisation, Transparency International PNG, has provided a toll free hotline to report acts of corruption during the general election.
The hotline number is 180 6000 or 7601 4636 and is operational from 8am-5pm during weekdays only.
Corruption, according to Transparency International, can be classified as grand, petty and political, depending on the amounts of money lost and the sector where it occurs. In other words, it is a dishonest and unethical act for one’s own gain. And it comes in many forms – bribery, embezzlement, blackmail, threats, cheating, etc.
Voters, as well as any member of the public, are urged to report to Transparency International PNG, and help keep fairness at polling, counting venues and any other place for that matter.
Reporting corrupt practises by candidates, voters, candidate supporters and scrutineers will ensure a better future for Papua New Guinea; as the saying goes “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”.
Report CorruptionSource: Transparency International PNG
