Homosexual Plea By Former M.P. (Press, 7 November 1981)
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Summary: Homosexual Plea By Former M.P. (Press, 7 November 1981)
In Papua New Guinea, tensions surrounding homosexuality have escalated following remarks and actions from former Member of Parliament Stanis Toliman. On 7 November 1981, Toliman expressed his belief that homosexual individuals, particularly expatriates, should face severe consequences, including deportation or imprisonment, if found guilty of homosexual acts with locals. He called upon government and community leaders to unite against what he termed "immoral practices" and has actively communicated his concerns through letters to the East New Britain premier and various community governments. This outcry from Toliman is believed to have been sparked by recent disturbances at Keravat High School in East New Britain, where student protests erupted. These demonstrations resulted in the arrest of more than half of the school's 450 students, who were showing support for three expatriate teachers that had been dismissed from their positions. These educators, Mr and Mrs John Mehzela from Britain and New Zealander Marek Koscielecki, were ordered to leave the country due to allegations linking them to a group of homosexuals within the Education Department's Port Moresby head office. Toliman has taken a firm stance, insisting that anyone—national or expatriate—convicted of homosexual activities should be punished adequately, with suggestions for imprisonment lasting at least five years coupled with hard labour. His campaign reflects a broader resistance to the acceptance of homosexuality within Papua New Guinea, especially in the wake of the disturbances that have shaken the local educational environment.
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