Deadly Riots Rock Papua New Guinea: Explainer
TimeJAN 2024
Papua New Guinea Declares State of Emergency After Violent Riots
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The Spin
Narrative A
This riot stems from Prime Minister Marape's negligence in both his economic leadership and reaction to the riots, not just the sudden wage reduction. As several parliamentarians have resigned in protest of his incompetent and selfish rule, Marape, too, should do the right thing and step down from office.
Narrative B
The opportunists are breaking the law and holding the country to ransom despite reassurances from the government that the cut was the result of a glitch and no new tax had been imposed. While the country works to obtain more foreign investment, the unrest has been orchestrated by members of parliament and the violence has been encouraged by police.