Papua New Guinea's prime minister has condemned domestic violence again after the violent death of another young woman in Port Moresby.
PNG Prime Minister James Marape addresses a business discussion in Port Moresby, January 2020. Photo: PNG PM Media Unit
Outrage has been sparked by the death of 19-year-old mother of two Jenelyn Kennedy as a result of alleged extensive violence by her partner.
One of the country's top public health officers described the injuries on the body of the woman as the "work of the devil" and "an inhumane act".
Expressing sadness over the killing, prime minister James Marape said he had tasked the Police Department with ensuring justice was served in this case.
But in a statement, Mr Marape emphasised that the public must assist in ensuring domestic violence was held to account by reporting such crimes without delay.
He urged the public not to hide behind the curtains of culture, compensation and tribal wantok system.
"Penalty provisions for domestic violence or any crime for that matter is in our laws and all we need is an effective prosecution.
"This starts by reporting a crime; standing as witnesses to assist prosecute a criminal including those involved in domestic violence. Therefore, the police must conduct prosecution accurately without failing."
PNG police were looking for Bhosip Takip Kaiwi (L) in connection with the death of Jennelynn Kennedy Photo: Supplied
Mr Marape said he understood that the father of the man accused of killing Jenelyn Kennedy has assisted in bringing his son to police.
"That is commendable as no amount of compensation can cover for death," the prime minister said.