by Bridgette Komatep – EM TV, Port Moresby
Following parliament session this morning, the Opposition held a news conference to elaborate on the root cause of police instability and disharmony.
The Opposition blamed Prime Minister Peter O’Neill for instigating the disharmony among members of the police force.
They disagreed with the set–up of the Task Force, as they say, Mr O’Neill is at the centre of this matter, and his actions would be considered as conflict of interest.
The three-man opposition, led by Leader Belden Namah, Bulolo MP and Deputy Opposition Leader Sam Basil and Rabaul MP Dr Allan Marat said what the country was experiencing today in the police force was the result of the Prime Minister’s stubbornness to adhere to the normal court process. They want Mr O’Neill to surrender. They called on the police hierarchy to address the stand-off between the two police factions immediately.
Although Prime Minister Peter O’Neill has committed to set-up the Task Force to investigate the actions of policemen, the Opposition feels that Mr O’Neill shouldn’t take charge of this, as they say he is at the centre of this issue.
The Opposition also reminded members of the disciplined force that they swore an oath to serve the country and uphold the Constitution; therefore, they must think about their actions.
