The Police Commissioner, David Manning has advised that the draft Domestic Terrorism Bill is ready and will soon be undergoing the parliamentary review process before tabling in parliament.
The Commissioner stated that everything is set and ready to go, as they wait upon Internal Security Minister, Peter Tsiamalili Jnr to present it on the floor of parliament.
“The final draft is all done, we’ve handed it over to the minister. It will be going through the cabinet before it comes to Parliament.”
Apart from the draft Domestic-Terrorism Bill, the Royal Papua New Guinea (RPNGC) has also been working on reviewing the Police Act. Commissioner Manning told PNG HAUSBUNG that they have started drafting out the Powers and Obligations Bill, something he has faith in that will allow members of the constabulary to not only act lawfully but also to ensure that they do their jobs.
“This is to ensure that they do their jobs demanded under the act. It’s part of our plan to become an effective and responsive police force.”
He stated that the Powers and Obligations paper not only protects members of the Police Force, but also demands that they act professionally when out on duty.
He added that it’s something that has not been done before in the Force, stating that as the country develops, police must be in a position to be able to respond.
“It would be very beneficial to all stakeholders including members of the force that we have an Act that stipulates what we can and can’t do by law, and also demands that when we need to do something, our people and stakeholders have confidence in what we are expected to do.”
Commissioner Manning said this is a very significant reform for the RPNGC.