by Mickey Kavera – EM TV News, Port Moresby
The National Museum has condemned the continuous destruction of cultural structures at the Constitutional Park.
Yesterday, the Gogodala Long Haus was set a light after the East Sepik Provincial Day.
A suspect has been identified and is in police custody.
What began as a day of cultural celebration ended as a day of cultural destruction with the burning down of the Gogodala Long Haus.
The motive behind this is not known but it has received widespread condemnation.
The UPNG East Sepik Students Association who organized the provincial day said it was beyond their control.
President Lewton Savi regrets that such an act has tarnished the reputation of the East Sepik Students and its people.
Patron of the East Sepik Students Association and Maprik MP John Simon says, it was not the intention of the students to carry out such as an act.
The Gogodala Long Haus is one of the many cultural structures that were built during the Melanesian Festival of Arts and Culture. Its destruction highlights the lack of respect there is for objects of cultural significance.
Director for National Museum Andrew Moutu describe the Constitutional Park as hub for cultural activities. He urged the people using the venue to be mindful of their action.
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