Freddie Kumai

Talasea MP, Freddie Kumai raised this issue on the floor of Parliament today.

MP Kumai is concerned that criminal activities are on the rise with no police presence along the New Britain highway.

He also mentioned that there is a certain route and link evolving around the maritime provinces of Morobe and East and West New Britain provinces both on land and sea that contributes to the rising law and order rates in the province.

He was declared member-elect for Talasea Open just this afternoon.

After PANGU Pati candidate John Tuka was eliminated from the race at the 29^th Exclusion count, his 5052 votes were distributed between Kumai and United Labour Party candidate Blaise Dau.

After the 30^th and final elimination, Dau finished with 6779 votes.

Talasea Open seat was held by PANGU Pati candidate Francis Maneke, who is contesting the Open seat for the new Nakanai District.

Freddie Kumai said for too long the people of West New Britain, especially Talasea electorate have been neglected and have missed out on spinoff benefits from the oil palm industries.

"We have been missing out and it's about time we take back what is rightfully ours.”

 "It is our birth right and we must take it back," Kumai told the people at Valopu village.

Contesting under the New Generation Party, Kumai said school drop outs and family will be his main concern if he wins in this election.

Concerned leader in the area Freddie Kumai told Loop PNG today that the people are now walking long distances looking for water and food as a result of the current El Nino vlimate effect hitting the area.

He said Talasea LLG should be declared a drought affected zone.

“The 10 ward council with an estimated 18,000 plus population are devastated by the prolonged  drought.