The Deputy Minister for Education, Dr Clement Abas Apaak, has dismissed concerns raised by the Institute of Community Sustainability over the consumption of dog and cat meat.
In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Dr Apaak, who identified himself as the Global President of the Dog Meat Eaters Association (DOGMEA), urged members to disregard the criticism.
“As the Global President of the Dog Meat Eaters Association (DOGMEA), I urge all members to treat the call by the Institute of Community Sustainability with the contempt it deserves,” he stated.
Addressing health concerns cited by the Institute, Dr Apaak questioned their basis.
“What do they mean by health concerns? Have we, the dog and cat meat consumers, reported health issues to them? And don’t people who do not eat dog and cat meat also have health issues?” he asked.
On ethical considerations, the Deputy Minister challenged what he described as subjective standards.
“Ethical concerns? Whose ethics and by whose standards? We, the consumers of dog and cat meat, are guided by the ethics passed down by our ancestors. Our forefathers taught us the moral principles governing our behaviour, which include our consumption of dog and cat meat,” he said.
He underscored the cultural significance of the practice, stating that the consumption of dog and cat meat formed part of the heritage and identity of those who observe it.
“Food, dog and cat meat included, is a primary expression of cultural identity, heritage and social bonding,” he added.
Dr Apaak encouraged members of the Association to uphold their traditions with confidence.
“We are proud of our heritage; we are proud of our culture. It is our birthright to consume dog and cat meat,” he said.
