Village Courts must enforce community work orders: Welfare officer
VILLAGE Courts in the East Sepik province should ensure that Community Work Orders are being adhered to says the province's senior Welfare officer.
Veronica Korufa (pictured left) said unless these orders to enforced, offenders are free to go about as they please and this makes it hard for victims.
"The challenge is for the offenders to be punished as determined by the courts. They must be made accountable to their actions, otherwise this will be mockery," said Ms Korufa.
She added that most women visiting her office have been raising concerns that offenders are still threatening them, despite being issued preventative orders.
Mrs Korufa said the formal agencies have enforced laws at their level, and village courts in particular should take the next step forward.
"These offenders capitalize on the lack of supervision by the magistrates and peace officers. And, the victims are the ones that continue to suffer," said Ms Korufa.
She added that East Sepik was fortunate to have a strong police force, which is showing progress, and communities should embrace their efforts. She said Village Courts, especially should take the lead.
"Women have been the worst affected ones. They are living in fear because of the lack of enforcement," said Ms Korufa.
She also called on the provincial village court office to increase its supervision, so that village courts are improving their performance.
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