By Stanley Ove Jr – EMTV NEWS PORT MORESBY
A State of Emergency (SOE) must be declared in Southern Highlands, a group of leaders from the Province have announced.
In a media conference held by runner-up candidates of the Southern Highlands Regional Seat, they brushed aside reports of normalcy in the province saying since William Powi was declared as Governor; there has been growing tension in the province.
Candidates Bernard Peter, Alfred Mune and Joe Kobol all agreed that the National Government must consider a SOE in the Province as many in the province have felt they have been ripped off their democratic rights and tensions are building.
“Over 70% of our people felt they did not vote when Governor Powi was declared,” said candidate Bernard Peter.
“I commend our local police for containing the situation but if it gets out of hand, the Government must consider a SOE so that people can feel free to go about their business and more importantly receive goods and vital government services,” he added.
“Since William Powi was declared, he has not been in the province to help restore peace and normalcy,” candidate Alfred Mune said.
Meanwhile 2nd runner up candidate Joseph Kobol has appealed to the Electoral Commission to make known their stand on the issue in Southern Highlands and assist in restoring peace.
“The electoral commission is partly to be blamed for what is happening in the province, they must come clear on the matter as lives of people are at risk,” Mr Kobol said.
