PNG Prison Workers Union Not Taking Sides Over Failed Mutiny Attempt

Wednesday, 9 October 2024, 5:33 pm
Article: RNZ

RNZ Pacific

Papua New Guinea's union for Correctional Services workers is not taking sides over a failed mutiny attempt by renegade officers in Waigani.

A group of officers, backed by police, stormed the correction services headquarters on Saturday, and tried to change the locks, but staff inside the complex had their own police backup.

Correction Service Employee Association president Daniel Mollen said a peaceful standoff took place after the "mutineers" arrived to install a new commissioner.

The acting commissioner's contract has expired but the union says it must stay neutral.

"We don't want to be involved in politics. We know how dirty politics is, especially inter-department politics," Mollen told RNZ Pacific.

"We made our stand from the beginning that we are not going to take sides.

"We are not going to lobby for some officer to take the commissioner's post. Let those who vie for the post [do it] on their own strength."

Acting commissioner Bernard Nepo has condemned the move, claiming it was done to cause instability.

© Scoop Media

RNZ

New Zealand's public broadcaster, providing comprehensive NZ news and current affairs, specialist audio features and documentaries.

Radio New Zealand is a Crown entity established under the Radio New Zealand Act 1995. Radio New Zealand News are vital elements in our programming, providing impartial news and information to New Zealanders every day. Radio New Zealand (RNZ) provides listeners with exciting and independent radio programmes in accordance with the Radio New Zealand Charter.

Contact RNZ

• Website - www.radionz.co.nz
• Twitter - @rnz_news
• Facebook
• Link - Contact RNZ