Ban calls for calm, commitment to rule of law amid reported clashes in Papua New Guinea

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today expressed concern about reports of violent clashes between students and police in Port Moresby, the capital city of Papua New Guinea.

In a statement from his spokesperson, Mr. Ban called for calm amid demonstrations reportedly triggered by calls for Prime Minister Peter O’Neill to resign over allegations of corruption.

Mr. Ban stressed the importance of respect for peaceful protest and freedom of assembly. He also underscored the importance of a commitment to the rule of law, dialogue and non-violence.