Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has commended community leaders, tribes and citizens in the Highlands who have begun voluntarily surrendering firearms, describing the recent gun return exercises in Mendi and Hela as encouraging signs that communities are responding positively to government calls for peace and security.

Prime Minister Marape made special mention of prominent Mendi leader Mr Steven Temo, praising him for his leadership in encouraging his people to surrender firearms despite personally suffering from election-related violence in recent years.

“I want to especially commend Mr Steven Temo, a respected young leader from Mendi, for showing tremendous leadership and courage,” Prime Minister Marape said.

“In 2022, Mr Temo and his family suffered greatly from election-related violence. His younger brother died, two other relatives died, and his people suffered enormously. Despite this pain and loss, he chose not to retaliate or participate in tribal fighting that could have destroyed many communities.

“Today, for him to stand up and encourage his tribesmen to return firearms that have been held by tribes for many years, largely for self-defence, is leadership of the highest order.”

Prime Minister Marape also thanked the tribes and communities in Mendi that have responded positively to Mr Temo’s leadership and the Government’s call for firearm surrender.

“I thank the tribes who have listened. This is exactly the type of leadership and community response we need throughout the country.

“Too many communities have become prisoners of guns. When people continue to hold firearms believing they provide security, eventually those same weapons destroy families, tribes and communities.”

Prime Minister Marape acknowledged that many illegal weapons held in communities were acquired over many years for protection purposes but stressed that lasting security must come from the State rather than armed groups or tribal protection systems.

“We want people to trust police and lawful institutions again. Government will continue increasing police presence so communities no longer feel the need to provide their own security.”

The Prime Minister also commended leaders in Hela Province who have begun returning firearms and urged all remaining communities throughout Papua New Guinea to follow their example.

“I call upon every other tribe, leader and community throughout our country to follow what leaders in Mendi and Hela are doing right now. Return illegal weapons now while there is still opportunity.”

Prime Minister Marape warned that Government would significantly strengthen enforcement measures after Independence celebrations this year.

“After September 16 this year, we will step up enforcement significantly against those who continue to hold illegal firearms and ammunition.

“Whether factory-made weapons or homemade firearms, illegal possession carries severe penalties, including life imprisonment. We want communities to understand that Government is serious.”

Prime Minister Marape said the Government’s security operation, Kumul 23, would continue maintaining a strong presence throughout the Highlands and other affected provinces.

“Kumul 23 operations will continue in places requiring additional security support. The headquarters and operations established in Mendi will remain active and continue linking operations into Enga, Hela, Southern Highlands and surrounding areas.”

He said maintaining strong security operations ahead of the 2027 National Election was essential.

“We want a gun-free election in 2027.

“People must vote based on leadership, policies and performance — not because they are intimidated, threatened or coerced by individuals carrying guns.

“Democracy must belong to the people, not to weapons.”

Prime Minister Marape again praised Mr Temo’s decision, describing it as an example for other leaders throughout the country.

“Mr Temo has contested many elections, may contest again in future, and remains a respected leader in his area.

“For someone in his position to encourage the surrender of weapons traditionally held by tribes is a powerful example. “I commend him, I commend his people, and I encourage all Papua New Guineans to follow this path towards peace.”