More than 100 locals recently attended an awareness program on the Glassman Act conducted by PNG Tribal Foundation on Mushu Island, East Sepik Province.
The session focused on educating communities about the provisions of the law under the Criminal Code Act, particularly the penalties for sorcery accusation–related violence, false claims of practising sorcery, spreading rumours, and engaging in ritual activities that may incite violence.
PNG Tribal Foundation President, GT Bustin, led the full-day session, explaining the interpretation of the law, legal consequences, and the responsibility of individuals to refrain from actions that could endanger innocent lives.
Mr Bustin stressed that the law clearly holds accountable any person who spreads rumours, falsely labels others as “glassman” or “glassmeri,” hires individuals to perform rituals, or incites violence against suspected persons.
Community members openly shared their concerns during the session.
Village elder Mr. Tobias Mandieng said that while he currently moves freely in his community, he fears that rumours or jokes accusing him of practicing sorcery could one day lead to violence against him.
“I am a good man, but one day I could be labelled a sanguma because someone spreads rumours,” he said.
Another community member who previously claimed to be a “poison man” confessed publicly that he would cease such activities to avoid future conflict, acknowledging the risks associated with such claims when deaths occur in the community.
Patric Koncung also spoke, saying many people are suspected of practicing sorcery without evidence.
“I am thankful for this awareness. If someone is suspected, the matter must be reported to police instead of people taking the law into their own hands,” he said.
Community members acknowledged that while cultural beliefs exist, the law of Papua New Guinea must prevail. They agreed that anyone involved in violence, attacks, killings, or destruction of property in relation to sorcery accusations will face legal consequences.
Youths at the gathering pledged to work closely with PNG Tribal Foundation and to report cases of disorder and lawlessness to police rather than resorting to violence.
PNG Tribal Foundation continues to work with victims of SARV, police, court officials, community leaders, politicians and individuals to further address the issue in the communities.
