PPP will intensify fight against domestic violence – Jagdeo

General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, on Thursday pledged that a re-elected PPP/C administration will step up the fight against domestic violence, describing it as one of the most urgent social issues facing the country.

Speaking at Freedom House during his party’s final press conference before Monday’s elections, Jagdeo said that while stronger laws have been introduced, legislation alone cannot address the scourge. He argued that the problem demands a deep cultural shift.

“We have to change the culture,” he said. “We must ensure that domestic violence is not acceptable in any form. It has no place in a modern society or a humane society.”

Jagdeo pointed to the party’s 2025–2030 development plan, which identifies domestic violence as a priority. He stressed that education and early intervention will be central pillars of the strategy. “That’s why we’ve made it clear that in the next term we have to work in schools through the civic programme, starting from a very young age, to promote values that are important to building a more humane society,” he explained.

In the immediate term, the PPP leader said the government will intensify collaboration with communities, civil society, and faith-based organisations to address the root causes of violence.

His remarks come at a time when the country has been shaken by several recent high-profile domestic violence cases, sparking public outrage and renewed calls for stronger state and community action.

The ruling party has already rolled out several initiatives aimed at tackling domestic violence, including the establishment of more shelters for survivors, counselling programmes for victims and perpetrators, and greater training for police officers in handling sensitive cases. The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security has also expanded its 914 hotline service and launched public education campaigns targeting young people.

Jagdeo insisted that this work will continue and expand if the PPP/C is returned to office. “We are committed to working every single day with partners across society to end this scourge,” he declared.

With the elections just days away, Jagdeo’s message sought to reassure voters that the fight against domestic violence will remain front and centre in the party’s agenda for the next five years.