PUBLIC LOSING TRUST IN PRIME MINISTER SAYS BIRD

By Ricky ISRAEL

East Sepik Governor Allan Bird has raised concerns that the Marape Rosso Government is losing trust among Papua New Guineans.

Speaking on the Nasfund Talkback Show this week, Bird highlighted the recent temporary restrictions on Facebook, announced by Internal Security Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr. These restrictions are part of a trial run for a new ICT control system under the Counter Terrorism Act 2024, aimed at ensuring responsible use of social media.

Governor Bird criticized the government’s actions, comparing them to tactics used by authoritarian governments around the world. He expressed worry that as the government loses public support, it may change laws to control freedoms like free speech. He warned that this could lead to greater restrictions on the media and public opinion.

Bird also raised concerns about the power given to police under the Anti-Terrorism Act, which allows the police minister to use extreme force to suppress protests.

He stated that any public protest could now activate the Anti-Terrorism Act, giving the police minister the authority to act without question.

In addition to these issues, Bird mentioned the government’s efforts to pass amendments to the National Executive Council (NEC) Act, which could make government decisions immune to legal challenges. The opposition is planning to challenge these changes in court but is facing difficulties due to financial and legal restrictions.

Bird warned that the government’s increasing control over public life could lead to serious consequences for the country, stating that if the situation continues, the future of the nation could be at risk.