The National Government must fulfil its commitment made to the Koiari people, says local leader.
Koiari LLG President David Ogi said his people’s land and resource is needed for the expansion of Port Moresby city, and they must be seen as partners.
He made the comments on Tuesday after a MOU signing with the Department of Works for the National Government to make funding available to work on the uncompleted 5km of road leading to Sirinumu Dam in Central Province.
“For the expansion of the city you will look at us for example Edevu, Brown River catchment is on Koiari land,” Ogi said.
“This is a new era for us. We will not talk about equity or royalty but social economy and infrastructure development because we are the custodian of the land given to us by God.
The LLG president also apologised on the threats issued by landowners to shut the valve of the Sirinumu Dam which supply water and electricity to Port Moresby.
“30, 000 people surrounding the Sirinumu Dam are struggling as we talk because the 5km of road has not been worked on since the decision was taken,” Ogi said.
“For that reason, the actions we take we want to apologise especially to the residents of Port Moresby city.”
Meanwhile, Works Secretary David Wereh said Cabinet will meet anytime to give approval for funding to complete the 5km of road stretch because the State Solicitor has given its clearance on Monday.
(Caption: Koiari LLG President David Ogi. Picture by Kennedy Bani)