The Government is committed to paying the K35 million it promised last year to Hides landowners in Hela Province.
Acting Prime Minister Charles Abel however says various court cases have stopped the Government from doing so.
Abel said it’s a very complex issue and would like some of the court issues settled quickly so that the money is released.
He said numerous court issues have stalled clan vetting, which once completed, will finally see all landowners being paid their royalties.
“We’re committed to pay that money. We were ready to pay. It’s the issues amongst the landowners,” he said.
“But hopefully we can get some clarity as soon as possible from our court system so we’re able to pay our Kikori landowners, progress the clan vetting up at Hides and even the pay out of the K35 million.”
Recently, Hides landowners shut access to the Hides Gas Conditioning Plant, calling on the Government to immediately settle the K35 million it committed in 2016.
The move forced ExxonMobil to withdraw non-essential staff from the Plant while maintaining key personnel at the site.