The New Year just started and already there are a lot of reports coming out about violent crimes being committed including killings, something which the prime minister has come out to strongly condemn. Prime Minister James Marape in a statement strongly condemns these recent reports of violence and killings, particularly the tragic incidents in the Goilala District of Central province. The Prime Minister is calling on all Papua New Guineans to reject violence and adhere to lawful and peaceful ways of resolving disputes, emphasizing that taking another person’s life is never a solution to grievances. “As a Christian nation, we are guided by Christian principles, and one of the fundamental teachings is that life is sacred. Taking another person’s life to resolve a grievance or dispute is not only illegal but also morally wrong,” Prime Minister Marape said. “We saw in the Book of Genesis, when Cain killed Abel, God did not strike him down. Instead, God imposed a punishment and warned that greater punishment would fall on anyone who tried to harm Cain. This teaches us that taking matters into your own hands through violence is never justified.” Prime Minister Marape says communities must refrain from resorting to violence, especially tribal conflicts that result in loss of lives. He stressed the importance of following legal processes and reporting grievances to the police rather than taking the law into one's own hands. “The recent images from Goilala are deeply concerning. We must not allow tribal conflicts and violent retaliation to become the norm. If you feel you’ve been wronged, take the matter to the nearest police station,” he said. “If the nearest police station lacks the capacity to respond, it must escalate the matter to a higher authority within the police hierarchy that can provide the necessary support.” The Prime Minister also acknowledges that police response times can sometimes be slow due to capacity issues, but he reassures citizens that all reported matters will eventually be addressed. "Even if it takes time, police will eventually get around to dealing with those who commit offences in our society. Do not lose faith in the system. Report your grievances to the police, and let the law take its course,” he said. Prime Minister Marape highlighted that taking the law into one’s own hands only leads to more violence and prolonged disputes, which further destabilize communities. As Papua New Guinea approaches its 50th Independence Anniversary, Prime Minister Marape calls on all citizens to reflect on the values of peace, respect, and unity that have held the nation together for five decades. “Our nation is preparing to celebrate 50 years of independence. Let us not taint this milestone with violence and bloodshed. Let us recommit to building a more peaceful and united Papua New Guinea,” he said. “Violence will not build our country. Unity, respect for the law, and a commitment to peace will.” The Prime Minister concluded by reminding citizens that life is precious and sacred, and every effort must be made to protect it. “We must reject violence in all its forms. Let us follow the teachings of our Christian faith and the laws of our country. Report crimes to the police, trust the process, and know that justice will come in time. Life is a gift from God—no one has the right to take it away,” he said.