Papua New Guinea: Protesters set plane on fire in Mendi June 14

Event

Violent protests broke out in Mendi (Southern Highlands province) on Thursday, June 14, after a court issued a ruling confirming William Powi as governor of the province. During the demonstrations, protesters set a plane on fire at Mendi Airport (MDU), forcing the airport to suspend operations. According to local authorities, no one was in the plane when it caught fire on the runway. Prime Minister Peter O’Neill announced that the government will hold an emergency National Security Council meeting in response to the violence. Additional protests are likely in the coming days. Further violence between demonstrators and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

Similar violent demonstrations broke out in Mendi in September and October 2017 after Prime Minister O'Neill declared William Powi the governor of Southern Highlands province. Residents blamed O'Neill for taking more than two months to announce the winner of the election. Powi is a member of the ruling People's National Congress party. Opposition candidates challenged the results of the election, claiming fraud and irregularities during the vote.

Advice

Individuals are advised to monitor the situation and contact their airline for more information if flying via Mendi Airport (MDU). Furthermore, individuals in Papua New Guinea are advised to monitor the security situation and to avoid all large gatherings due to the possibility of violence.