Jiwaka Provincial Member Simon Kaiwi has publicly apologised in Parliament today to the women of Papua New Guinea for the actions of his grandson, Bhosip Kaiwi, who was convicted for the 2020 murder of Jenelyn Kennedy.
His heartfelt apology came during the National Debate in Parliament on Gender-Based Violence Wednesday.
Kaiwi expressed his deep regret, stating that despite the tragedy, he is grateful for the two children Jenelyn Kennedy left behind, whom he is currently raising.
“The saddest part of raising these children is that they will grow up without ever knowing their mother,” said Kaiwi.
He continued, “I apologise to the mothers, aunties, sisters, and the women of Papua New Guinea for the actions of my young grandson, who is now behind bars for his crime.”
Kaiwi also called for stronger laws to protect women and girls in the country, urging Parliament to take action. “We must pass stronger laws to protect our women and girls,” he said.
The apology comes at a critical time as the nation continues to address the issue of gender-based violence, with lawmakers discussing necessary legal reforms to safeguard women and children across the country.
Meanwhile, Member for Madang, Bryan Kramer, delivered a critique of Parliament’s handling of gender-based violence issues (GBV) today, demanding a concrete action plan and criticizing the lack of leadership and accountability.
During the ongoing debate on GBV, Kramer challenged the government’s approach, asking, “Why are we telling people to show leadership when we do not show leadership? Leadership starts here.”
He emphasised that mere speeches were insufficient, stating, “We are here to give speeches that mean nothing.”
Kramer addressed the issue of personal responsibility, acknowledging, “No one is innocent from sin. The question is, what do you do after you commit the sin?”
He warned that without a clear strategy, the same discussions would recur annually.
“We are going to come back next year to talk about the same thing because we don’t have a plan,” he asserted.
He further criticised the lack of internal accountability, stating, “We don’t hold our colleagues and family members accountable to start with.”
Directing his remarks towards the government, Kramer stressed, “The government is in charge and not the opposition. You are in charge, and you are responsible.”
“Can we bring a plan to address the issue of GBV?”
Kramer acknowledged that Papua New Guinea already possesses sufficient laws to address GBV issues. However, he questioned the allocation of resources, asking, “What resources are we going to give people responsible to decrease the issue?”
He pointed out the complexity of GBV cases, noting, “The issue about GBV is involving the people we love, and sometimes they are not in a position to hold themselves accountable.”
His demand for an action plan and a focus on accountability and implement effective measures to protect women and girls.
