Papua New Guinea : Controversy Erupts Over Biden’s Papua New Guinea Cannibalism Remark Amid Criticism and Official Records
During a campaign event in Pittsburgh, Joe Biden mentioned his uncle, 2nd Lt Ambrose J Finnegan Jr, who served during World War II. He recounted how his uncle, nicknamed “Uncle Bosie,” flew reconnaissance flights in single-engine planes. Biden mentioned that his uncle’s plane went down in New Guinea and his body was never found, suggesting the possibility of cannibalism in the region at that time. However, official war records indicate that Finnegan was killed when the plane he was on experienced engine failure and crashed into the Pacific Ocean, with no mention of cannibalism.
Analysts in Papua New Guinea who responded to Biden’s comments described them as unfounded and insensitive, especially considering the current efforts by the US to strengthen relations with the country and counter Chinese influence in the Pacific region. Michael Kabuni, a political science lecturer at the University of Papua New Guinea, explained that while the acknowledgment of historical cannibalism in Papua New Guinea isn’t the issue, the suggestion that someone from the region would view a plane crash as an opportunity for a meal is offensive and unacceptable.
Kabuni explained that historical instances of cannibalism in Papua New Guinea were culturally specific and not indiscriminate acts against outsiders. He clarified that cannibalism often had ceremonial or ritualistic significance, such as consuming deceased relatives out of respect.
Contrary to misconceptions, the practice wasn’t due to food scarcity, as evidence shows agriculture in the region dating back over 10,000 years.
Kabuni also raised the point that implying all missing soldiers were consumed by cannibals is baseless, as thousands of soldiers from various regions remain unaccounted for after World War II.
Allan Bird, governor of East Sepik province, expressed bemusement rather than offense at Biden’s comments, suggesting they might reflect Biden’s upbringing rather than malice.
Maholopa Laveil, an economics lecturer at the University of Papua New Guinea, criticized Biden’s claims as unhelpful, especially following his cancellation of a planned trip to the country the previous year. Laveil emphasized that such remarks further tarnish Papua New Guinea’s image, already burdened by negative publicity regarding riots and tribal conflicts.
Highlighting the extensive diplomatic efforts and deals between the US and Papua New Guinea, Laveil stressed that even casual remarks from a US president should be more considerate.
According to the Pentagon’s Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, Biden’s uncle, Ambrose J. Finnegan Jr., died on May 14, 1944, when the A-20 Havoc aircraft he was on crashed into the ocean off the north coast of New Guinea due to engine failure. The agency’s report indicates that while one crew member survived, three others, including Finnegan, were lost in the crash and never found.
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