15 May 2013

Protests across PNG to highlight increasing violence against women

4:39 am on 15 May 2013

A series of sit-ins and protests have been held through the night across Papua New Guinea to highlight on the issue of increasing violence against women.

The Haus Krai or House of Mourning is a response to a series of recent murders of women, including some accused of sorcery.

Our correspondent, Todagia Kelola, says the sit-ins in and around Sir John Guise stadium in Port Moresby have featured cultural performances and prayer through the night.

He says ceremonies will continue until late morning before a petition is handed to the prime minister, Peter O'Neill.

"The petition is basically to get our leaders and parliamentarians to legislate stronger laws, tougher punishments for people who commit these offences against women."

Todagia Kelola

Meanwhile, the government has promised action, including plans to start enforcing the death penalty.