Editorial: PNG's Unrest Echoes Lessons of Stability, Unity Needed In Troubled Times

The recent eruption of violence in the capital of Papua New Guinea (PNG) serves as a harsh reminder of the fragility of democratic nations

when faced with social unrest.

What began as a peaceful protest by officers, decrying a perceived pay cut due to a tax, quickly spiralled into a wave of rioting and looting that left scars on the nation's history.

The event exposed the deep-seated issues plaguing PNG, a nation grappling with corruption and other heinous crimes.

As we reflect on these troubling events, it is crucial to draw parallels with Fiji, a nation that has weathered its own storms, having experienced three coups in recent history.

The lessons learned from those tumultuous times underline the importance of cultivating great leadership that prioritises stability and prosperity for all citizens.

The chaos in PNG serves as a stark reminder of how a small group of disgruntled individuals, in this case, officers feeling the pinch of a tax-induced pay cut, can escalate a situation into mayhem and anarchy.

It underscores the necessity of effective governance and communication to address grievances before they escalate into widespread unrest.

Beyond immediate concerns, the events in PNG underscore the long-lasting impact of such actions.

The scars left on a nation, communities, and families are profound and enduring.

Fiji, having granted pardons late last year to inmates involved in past treasonous acts, heard these individuals' expressing remorse and seeking forgiveness.

This serves as a poignant lesson for the younger generation in both nations.

It is imperative that the youth are educated about the consequences of such actions.

The turbulent history of PNG and Fiji demonstrates the need for humility, compassion, and love, even in the face of challenges.

Leaders must emerge who can guide their nations toward prosperity, fostering unity and understanding among diverse communities.

The recent events in PNG serve as a cautionary tale about the vulnerabilities of democratic societies.

Great leadership and a commitment to addressing grievances peacefully are vital to preventing such incidents.

It is a collective responsibility to impart valuable lessons to the younger generation, emphasising the importance of humility, care, and love to build a resilient and harmonious society.

Feedback: naisak@fijisun.com.fj