GOVERNOR‑GENERAL CALLS FOR ACTION ON CRIME AND CORRUPTION

BY NIGEL MADO

GOVERNOR -General His Excellency Sir Bob Bofeng Dadae has challenged Papua New Guineans to take greater personal and community responsibility for addressing crime, corruption and law-and-order problems.

Speaking during the Flag Lowering Ceremony at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium, Sir Bob said the country needed a change in mindset as it moved into its next 50 years of nationhood.

He called for a shift away from total reliance on government and politicians towards greater self-reliance and self-development.

Sir Bob said individuals were responsible for their own wellbeing, their families and their actions, and encouraged citizens to consider how they could contribute to addressing social problems at individual, family and community levels.

He specifically addressed crime, saying a lack of employment opportunities or the high cost of living should not be used to justify criminal behaviour.

At the same time, the Governor-General maintained that government still has a responsibility to provide services to the people.

He said citizens should take responsibility where they can, while government must continue to deliver services where those services are required. He also called for stronger governance, transparency and accountability as part of efforts to build a prosperous nation.