Western Province Governor

Governor condemns provincial split statement

He said he was not aware of the information and said it did not originate from his office.

He said he was only aware of a petition from community leaders on the agenda of the creation of the new province in 2017.

Unfortunately, he said the separation of the Province may not be feasible during his term but they can start the process, which may eventually get there sometimes in the future.

Western Province leaders call for recognition

Following the recent Western Province Development Forum in Kiunga, the Western Province Governor, Taboi Awi Yoto, and his Open members called for the government to facilitate for a loan to be given to the province.

The loan will specifically facilitate for the development of agendas identified in the forum.

The Governor spoke directly about the combined stable provincial leadership being showcased by him and his members.

Western awaiting dividend

He made the call as they are still awaiting their share of dividends declared by Ok Tedi Limited.

The dividend can only be paid once the share certificate has been issued to the Western Provincial Government.

Governor Taboi said he initially raised the issue with the Prime Minister in Parliament last year and had received assurances that the share certificate would be issued once they pay the stamp duty fee that is still outstanding.

The Governor said they are ready to pay however they are still awaiting a response from the IRC.

Govt urged for immediate support to Western

The Governor said initial help through the help of Ok Tedi Limited through assessment and minor relief support has been the only assistance to date.

The Governor said six recommendations have been presented to the National Disaster Coordinating Office.

Governor Yoto said since the earthquake only assessments were done while local support was gathered to assist affected communities, while four health centres were set up.

He said since the announcement of numerous contributions to relief efforts, Western has yet to receive anything official.

Biyama puts hand up for Governor’s post

Biyama informed Loop PNG that the Province is lost following a string of unfortunate events decimating the province of three parliamentary leaders.

North Fly MP, Boka Kondra’s was dismissed from office this year after  a Leadership tribunal found him guilty of double dipping from public funds. His appeal of the decision was dismissed by the Supreme Court on November 30.

South Fly MP, Aide Ganasi, suddenly passed away on November 8 and was accorded a state funeral on the same day Kondra’s appeal was dismissed.