tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720347463008428592024-02-21T08:27:27.898+10:00The Sunday Bulletin LettersThe Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.comBlogger55125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-39058595650652526352013-07-22T17:12:00.003+10:002013-07-22T17:12:31.806+10:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Allow
debate on constitutional changes</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I
CALL on the Prime Minister Peter O’Neill and all thinking intelligent Members
of Parliament to think very carefully before casting their mandated votes for
the changes to be brought to sections 124 and 145 of the Constitution.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Let
us not be fooled and blinded by the rhetoric from the prime minister and other
MPs that the change will bring about stability to good governance of Papua New
Guinea. They do not have the mandate from their voters to touch the
Constitution as they please.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The
suggestion made the by the prime minister during the current Parliament session
that the Parliament is supreme over the Constitution is a very dangerous
statement and trend. We are no doubt heading to a stage where democracy would
be guided by the wishes of the few who claim to have mandate from their voters
to do so. If democracy is guided then we have dictatorial government.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The
initial drafting of our Constitution witnessed almost three years of
pain-staking work by some of our intelligent lawyers at the time and it was by
and through the spirit and wisdom of God that such a beautiful and meaningful
Constitution was put together and accepted on the eve of Independence in 1975.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">We
have arrived at the situation where selfish thinking has led to the views that
the Constitution must be amended for reasons of stability and what have you.
The proposed changes are nothing more than changes designed to cling to power
and further one’s personal economic interest.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I
call on thinking citizens of Papua New Guinea to reflect on the business
ventures that have been concluded internationally and onshore to know that
certain politicians are behind changing the Constitution so that their
parliament tenure is secured for them to make more money. That is the truth and
what the parliamentarians are attempting to do now is to kill the very
democracy enjoyed so far because of the Constitution.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The
Parliament is not supreme over the Constitution which in fact gave life to the
formation of Parliament. The “heartbeat” of the Parliament as if it was an
infant baby was put into place by the Constitution. We are now doing everything
to kill the source of that “heartbeat” and replace with a “mechanical
heartbeat”.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">There
must be a public debate on the issue of constitutional changes and supremacy of
Parliament and I will lead a team against a team put up by the prime minister.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">We
all have a duty to look into these threshold issues because of the very fabric
of democracy inbuilt into the Constitution by the fathers of the Constitution.
No one in his right mind would not allow a public debate on these issues to
assist the people of Papua New Guinea better understand the intricacies of
constitutional laws meant for the good of Papua New Guinea.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Moses
Murray</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Port
Moresby</span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 22pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
</div>
The Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-17602634953241659192013-07-22T17:11:00.001+10:002013-07-22T17:11:13.533+10:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<b><span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The
truth: Taurama Valley pilot project</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I
WRITE to counter some of the misleading statements made by a Concerned Resident
of Taurama Pilot Project area on July 11 in The National newspaper in response
to my July 8 article. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I
believe Concerned Resident is attempting to justify or legitimise his residency
in a declared pilot project area. He and others can stay, but all the Office of
Urbanisation is attempting to do is make it a planned and serviced formal urban
suburb so he can be a proud city resident and not turn his environment into a
slum.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Concerned
Resident is claiming that the project started in 2000. I have taken out a paid
advertisement detailing all the activities that took place, including the dates,
so that everyone can appreciate that customary land development is not as easy
as Concerned Resident would like to have us believe.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The
National Consultative Committee on Urbanisation (NCCU) had its first meeting in
August 2003 and Office of Urbanisation (after its organisation structure was
approved) was formally in place with a skeleton staff of five in June 2004. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">There
was no NCCU in 2000. There was no Office of Urbanisation in 2000. There was no
Max Kep as chairman or director or any other person as director or chairman of
such entities in 2000.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">If
these institutions were in existence 14 years ago engaged in developing the
Taurama project, things would certainly be different. Concerned Resident would
not have been there to sabotage our genuine endeavour with a project aimed at
helping a marginalised people.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">In
truth, the Taurama Valley Pilot Project was selected in 2007 and formally
launched in March 2008 by then deputy prime minister and minister for lands and
physical planning Sir Puka Temu and then minister for community development and
Moresby South MP Dame Carol Kidu.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The
billboard with the project concept was erected in 2009 after formal planning
approval was granted by the NCD physical planning board. The unveiling of the billboard
took place amid protest by the landowners as depicted in the inserted picture
in the July 11 article by Concerned Resident. The protest coming from potential
beneficiaries of the project was bewildering. From thereon, the project was
under threat from within the clans from the project site.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">A
surveyor was engaged to undertake boundary surveys after the erection of the
billboard. His work was restrained by the landowners who were against the project.
Police were engaged throughout the duration of the survey at great additional
cost. The Taurama Incorporated Land Group’s office was constructed in 2011. The
contractor is being pursued to complete the office.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Several
workshops, seminars and awareness programs were conducted involving national leaders
like Sir Puka, Dame Carol, Dr Webster, Dr Yala, Mr Warvi, the NLDP manager, the
civil registry, the Office of Urbanisation, Motu-Koitabu village leaders like Rev
Dick Avi, Rabura Aiga, Eli Temu and Babani Maraga. It is therefore not a lack
of awareness that placed the pilot project under the current mess.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">It
is people like Concerned Resident who found it right to invade the project area
and by making themselves residents, have been responsible for sabotaging the project’s
smooth finish.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The
greed and selfishness of some members of the landowning clans by selling their
land have also been a detrimental factor in the development of Taurama Valley.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The
reasoning that the Office of Urbanisation was slow and dragged its feet, giving
legitimacy for the invasion of the area by Concerned Resident is simply pathetic.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Taurama
Valley Pilot Project is a unique project. This means there are no similar experiences
elsewhere in the world to emulate. Most countries do not even have anything
called customary land. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">PNG
can be proud that land is still with the people under customary tenure. In such
a scenario, the concept of developing customary land on the urban fringes is about
creating wealth for customary landowners, not for invasion by the people with
money.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Taurama
project was ambitious. We were certain that it would generate substantial
instant income for the landowning clans and long-term sustainability through
lease rentals for their land. A total of 1700 serviced allotments at a minimum
K200,000 per block would become a sizeable income. These allotments could have fetched
even more when compared to the adjacent East Boroko area which have been going
for K1 million a block. This opportunity was to be created for the three recognised
landowning groups; the Vamaga, the Vaga and Sere Guba for claims 68, 45 and 67
respectively.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Many
Motu-Koitabu people have been heard airing their grievances about how their
land was sold cheaply to the State during colonial times as was the case
everywhere in PNG towns. One would imagine that the bitter past would likely
have taught important lessons for all customary landowners not to sell land at
all. The land selling we are experiencing within the Taurama pilot project area
is unprecedented and simply unbelievable.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The
people selling land are the culprits who have engineered the sabotage of the
project. What is worse than the selling of land is the element of betrayal – the
betrayal of their clans, their families and the future generations by those
trusted as custodians. The future generations will no longer have a land
because their present custodians have decided to make few quick bucks. These
very people selling land will be the ones licking their wounds and hanging
their heads in shame when the land they sold is difficult to retrieve.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The
success of creating wealth for landowners depends very much on how solid the partnership
is between the urban customary landowners and government. It requires genuine
commitment and cooperation at all stages of the project development. When one
cannot get undivided cooperation, projects such as Taurama suffer. In such
circumstance, one cannot blame an insignificant office like the Office of
Urbanisation. If at all, it should be recognised for taking on the challenge on
urbanisation and complex land development issues.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I
am proud to have contributed to PNG’s progress in more ways than Concerned Resident
would ever know. The promotion of urbanisation policy and program to the
national forefront and the messy customary land development are examples of the
tasks I have taken head-on. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">As
chairman of the industrial arbitration, I have also been responsible for putting
to rest industrial relations disputes for a long time from what the country was
facing 15 years ago. Have you ever wondered why industrial relations scene in
PNG is still peaceful today?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The
“Why Regulate Taurama Now?” heading suggests that the Office of Urbanisation
and NCCU abandoned the project area and by doing so that it will legitimise Concerned
Resident’s residency there. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I
don’t think the majority of the landowners of the project area will agree to this
suggestion. What I know is that they will be opting to get their land title under
the revised ILGs for the whole area. And they will be opting for all those in
the project area to cooperate with their three ILGs. I also know that they will
be asking the project area residents to formalise their residency with the
ILGs. So Concerned Resident needs to be aware of these requirements and create awareness
among his fellow residents.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<b><span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">MAX
KEP<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<b><span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Director
<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<b><span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Office
of Urbanisation<u><o:p></o:p></u></span></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
The Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-54399700667377122022013-07-22T17:08:00.001+10:002013-07-22T17:08:28.368+10:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Federation sees flaws in ILG
legislation</span></b><span style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The Resource Owners Federation of
Paua New Guinea Inc. is concerned by National Research Institute’s (NRI) call
for Papua new Guineans to register customary land, whilst there are significant
flaws in the incorporated land groups (ILG) legislation. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The ILG legislation seeks to
extinguish customary law over registered customary land. The law further
prohibits a land owner from registering as a member of more than one ILG. This
means that, a person who currently holds multiple land claims through his
parents, grandparents or others will lose all these land claims, except one.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The ILG system should seek to
formally legalise customary law and practises, not seek to destroy them and
dispossess citizens of their numerous landownership claims and practises.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">We note that the ILG legislation is
not consistent with the 2007 United Nation’s Declaration on the Rights of the
Indigenous people of the world, which seeks to protect the cultural practise,
traditions and ownership of lands and resources by indigenous people of member
countries. The current ILG legislation seeks to further dispossess Papua New
Guineans of their cultures, traditions and rights to land and natural resources
in accordance with their customary laws.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">There may be other flaws the
Federation has not yet picked up on, but in the meantime, the Federation does
not support the current legislation nor support the NRI in its push to register
customary land under the currently flawed legislation.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Jonathan Paraia</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">President<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Port Moresby<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
The Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-75008023776899132232013-07-22T17:06:00.005+10:002013-07-22T17:06:59.289+10:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<b><span lang="EN-AU" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Clarify PNGIPA status</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The Papua New Guinea
Institute of Public Administration is the premier school of government for
Public Servants in PNG. It is supposed to be the leader in capacity building
for public servants and a role model public organization.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Senior public servants
should go to PNGIPA and see what is happening out there. The place is unusually
quiet and hardly any training is taking place. The gates are always locked and
manned by security guards who question anyone wanting to enter the Institute.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">We hear PNGIPA is becoming
an Expenditure Centre for the Government.
Can the Minister for Public Services and the Secretary for the
Department of Personnel Management tell the public what is happening at PNGIPA?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>James Emex</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">POM</span><span style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
</div>
The Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-85957529554743108172013-07-22T17:05:00.001+10:002013-07-22T17:05:21.238+10:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<b><span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Why are experienced trainers
leaving PNGIPA?</span><span style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I applied to study the
Diploma in Public Administration in August 2012 at the PNG Institute of Public
Administration this year (2013). However, I did not receive any response. Last
month, I was in Port Moresby so I decided to check at PNGIPA.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I was told that, all programs
for 2013 were cancelled by the director. No reasons were given. Can the
Minister for Public Service or any authority responsible for PNGIPA tell Public
Servants throughout the country what is happening? One trainer told me that,
they are doing nothing and many experienced trainers have left the Institute
because they have nothing to do. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Is the government trying to
close down PNGIPA?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Max Yauro</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-AU"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Public Servant – Kokopo<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
The Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-20435876291964199682010-04-04T14:57:00.000+10:002010-04-04T14:57:41.035+10:00Easter message lost to sport<b>I AM a born again Christian and write through this paper to express the significant truth established in the word of Almighty God about Easter that I believe is not properly observed, respected and honored by us. </b><br />
<br />
It is abused without honour and respect maybe because of lack of faith in the word of God that the day is meaningless to us and most people would be seen doing non spiritual activities on Good Fridays and Sundays other than going to church. There is no fear of God in us on this day and the consequences will be faced by us at the time of judgment in His kingdom when our earthly days are over and we individually stand at His mighty throne and the revelations of our earthly doings/works accuse us and judgments is passed on us.<br />
<br />
Easter is significant to Christians who in their act of faith in God understand the spiritual truth through the teachings of His Word fully observe it to be holy, become mindful of the sufferings, agonies and sorrows that the Lord Jesus went through during the last days of his earthly life before crucifixion in the hands of evil men of the world to fulfill the will of His Father for the sins of many to be crucified. He died, was buried and rose up victoriously from the grave and established the new covenant between man and God. The day has its purpose that we should understand and keep it holy from Good Friday to Sunday, the day of resurrection.<br />
<br />
Easter has its activities on Good Fridays and Sundays involving church activities that differ from church to church with thanksgiving, Easter plays, etc. There are activities organized prior to the day by churches for their members as lead up activities in preparations. Those activities are acts of worship and service to Almighty God in the duty to His Will as declared in his word. It is a Kingdom Will and does have blessings in heaven and on earth. It is not a waste of time. God is glorified, worshipped, honored and blessed and becomes happy in the Kingdom and does right by pouring down abundant blessings upon us experienced in groups and individually. Easter has a spiritual purpose and must be observed accordingly.<br />
<br />
It is not time to stage sporting tournaments and championships for these activities do not give glory, worship and honor to Almighty God. They are not His Will, purpose and service and are not gifts and talents from the Kingdom of Heaven rather they are gifts, talents and services of the world that man work hard to achieve the prize in winning the grand finals and are presented with money, shields, trophies, etc. They are earthly prizes. Sporting associations and movements must carefully consider the spiritual requirement of Easter and must hold sporting tournaments and championships at other times in the year.<br />
<br />
The staging of sporting tournaments and championships at Easter are non-spiritual activities that man uses to promote himself and give service to himself and in an act of disobedience and lawlessness that contributes to his fall before the Almighty God. Sporting activities held in Easter have Christians involved who should carefully consider their relationship with their creator and should distinguish between Kingdom services that give honor, glory and worship to God and earthly service for personal prestige. Those who have ears will listen and consider the importance of Easter and its purposes, truth and service to keep it holy. <br />
<br />
<b>Kenneth Haro<br />
Port Moresby</b>The Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-10720203817900757052010-04-04T14:55:00.000+10:002010-04-04T14:55:33.178+10:00The reserved seats bill is unbiblical<b>This is an open letter to the Prime Minister, Members of Parliament and Christians in PNG in regard to the proposed draft bill to reserve seats in the National Parliament for women now approved by the recent Kimbe cabinet meeting. </b><br />
<br />
It is very sad as our country is likely to go into the hands of the evil one. It is morally wrong for our existence on this planet earth according to the creator. These are very clear signs of the last days with the devil taking full control and influencing the government system and bureaucrats to come up with a foolish bill for women to be represented in our parliament in the name of gender equality. <br />
<br />
Gender Equality was the most important agenda that the devil successfully developed and introduces into the United Nation's goal so that it can use its financial muscle to force countries around the world to implement his destructive agenda and it has now became normal for most countries today. <br />
<br />
Now this agenda has slowly crept into the Papua New Guinea government system, NGOs and churches and finally it is now on its way to become law for this country. As far as this bill is concerned, we have not seen or heard any opposition from leaders from any Christian churches because their minds and eyes have been blind-folded by the evil one. <br />
<br />
Satan is whispering to the church leaders and cabinet ministers that gender equality means that men and women are equal. Beware of the sweet whispers from the father of all lies who lied to the woman in the beginning of creation. Because there were the only people in the beginning, satan used the snake to lie to the woman and the woman accepted the devil's sweet talk and picked the fruit from the knowledge tree. Today there are thousands of people around that the devil finds it very easy to delegate his destructive duties.<br />
<br />
Remember that man is the original head of God's happy family from the beginning of creation. The devil is the father of all lies so he is using the existing system and saying now that woman is also the head of the family too. We have to be very careful my good Christian friends.<br />
<br />
As a real Christian (not Sunday or seasonal Christian), I want to tell those of you used your time, knowledge and skills influenced by the wicked one to come up with this controversial bill now to be debated by parliament. You will face God sooner or later and be ready any time to explain to God by breaking the very fundamental law to mankind as stated very clearly in his book. Read Genesis 2, verses 7, and 21 through 24.<br />
<br />
Remember, man and woman are not same or equal. Evil minded people talk too much about gender equality in all forms of trainings, workshops, sports, religious activities and in all form of media they conduct just to influence the minds of the general public, bureaucrats and politicians to believe it true. Please Christian leaders of all denominations and current politicians of this God blessed country, wake up from your deep sleep and make your stand on this issue as the devil is very desperately trying to distort the natural fundamental law set by God. <br />
<br />
If the proposed bill passed by the Government (which I doubt), there will be a lot of social problems and family break ups. Women will be very busy competing for power, name and fame, leaving behind God given responsibilities resulting in increased social problems and a broken society. This is the main objective of the evil one, who wants to see broken families, societies and increased law and order problems. I am urging all good God appointed Christians of the current parliament to vigorously debate and vote against the devil orchestrated bill at all cost. <br />
<br />
Also on leadership, Paul's first letter to the Corinthian at Chapter 11: verse 3 and again in verses 8 and 9, the apostle is very clear on the matter. <br />
<br />
God has put marriage and family as a very important institution where the man is the head of the family, leader of tribes, clans, communities, LLGs and parliament to govern its people. Nowhere in the Holy Bible does it state anything about a woman becoming a leader whether in government or in God's churches. <br />
<br />
Finally, I strongly believe that this message is very crystal clearl and I urge all our good members of the current parliament to vote against this bill out so that we do not get to hear it again in parliament or in any form of media. <br />
<br />
<b>Real Christian <br />
National Capital District</b> The Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-45044626417959913962010-04-04T14:52:00.000+10:002010-04-04T14:52:58.317+10:00Tribute to Australian Kiaps and Patrol Officers<b>THIS year as we focus on the National Census, I am reminded of some unsung heroes who have contributed so much to the development of our country and who formed the basis of our census. </b><br />
<br />
They were called the 'kiaps'. Kiap is a word originating in PNG in pidgin, it largely means captain. The Kiaps undertook their service in Papua New Guinea between 1949 and 1974, after the end of the Second World War when Papua New Guinea was then an Australian managed territory known as the Territory of Papua and New Guinea. The best estimate of how many men served in these roles is around 2,000. <br />
<br />
The kiaps were noted for going on patrols. Every village in Papua New Guinea was to be visited at least once per year for annual census. So it was that the kiaps and medical staff who saw more or less every person in<br />
<br />
Papua New Guinea at least once per year. At those times, the census was rural Papua New Guinea's registry of births marriages and deaths. Time and again the kiaps were made aware of how much the people appreciated the annual census revision. Typically, following the census the kiap would arbitrate a spectrum of disputes, ranging from compensation for pigs damaging gardens to lovers' quarrels and so their duties were not limited. Their duty statement contained the traditional bureaucratic proviso at the end that said that on top of all those other duties they were required to carry out 'any other duties that may be directed to be carried out from time to time'. <br />
<br />
Our country, as known to outsiders, is a country of large impenetrable jungles, high mountain ranges and wide and wild rivers. The rough terrain makes it extremely difficult to move between places, resulting in the isolation of tribal groups and more than 700 languages among those tribes. It still remains. <br />
<br />
"The kiaps were an extraordinary group of young Australians who performed a remarkable service of our country. "They were some of the Australia's finest", said one former kiap. Their adventurous spirit was matched only by their commitment to the wellbeing of the people of Papua New Guinea. If you do not know or if your parents never told you, then the story of the Australian Kiaps remains largely untold to many Australians and Papua New Guineans today especially those born in post-independence. <br />
<br />
The kiaps were usually representative of all arms of government in frontier areas and they often brought the first trickle of European civilization to any unreachable places. The extraordinary efforts of these Australian men and a small number of women make up a valuable chapter in Australia and Papua New Guinea's history but are still untold. I say thank you to those Aussies and their families. These great Australians and of course with the aiding of few energetic Papua New Guineans have achieved amazing results with limited resources and in the most inhospitable conditions.<br />
<br />
"The kiaps lived a dangerous existence," another former kiap said. "There was an ever-present threat of attack from hostile tribes and locals, and many kiaps were murdered on patrol. The harsh conditions on the frontier also proved to be very dangerous, with accidents and illness claiming the lives of kiaps. The list of kiaps killed in boating and aircrafts accidents are extensive and many are unrecorded".<br />
<br />
They kept our primitive and hostile communities together in the formative years of PNG. They kept our tribes together and kept our villages and districts functioning. In Philip Fitzpatrick's book he describes the kiaps as men with dogged perseverance who helped bring the emerging nation of Papua New Guinea to independence. During their patrols kiaps could have been killed by poison tipped arrows or spears or axed to death. They could have suffered from accidents or sicknesses like malaria or been exposed to snakes, crocodiles, large bush pigs and millions of mosquitoes. Patrols were certainly not glamorous; rather, they were hard, dirty uncomfortable work compared to conditions those Aussies now working under AusAID funded projects.<br />
<br />
They went where others feared to tread and did so without unnecessary bloodsheds or disruptions of the lives of the people, frequently to the detriment of their own health and well being. Some died in drowning accidents. Others were murdered while on official police business, such as the East New Britain District Commissioner Jack Emmanuel, who was killed by disaffected landowners on the Gazelle Peninsula when he attempted to intervene in a land ownership dispute.<br />
<br />
They made PNG in a state of constant fear and predation, village upon village, to one of free travel, cooperation across language groups and peace between long standing tribal combatants. When one compare their duties at that time to the US and Australian armies no serving in Iraq or Afghanistan today, I believe both are at par.<br />
<br />
Without these Australians and few Papua New Guineans in those days, PNG would not have come this far. Indeed all ex-kiaps deserve some kind of recognitions from both Papua New Guinea and Australian governments.<br />
<b> </b><br />
<b>Jacob Sekewa,<br />
Port Moresby.</b>The Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-50350042206393536762010-04-04T14:50:00.000+10:002010-04-04T14:50:38.009+10:00Witch hunt on for East Pangia FMA projectA<b>NOTHER interesting development in the East Pangia saga is looming in Port Moresby. This time a group of disgruntled leaders from the resource area are going around work places and houses in the city to have signatures of the resource owners to support their witch hunt. <br />
</b><br />
The group is also spreading unsubstantiated allegations against the leaders who have supported the logging project.<br />
<br />
Those spearheading the witch hunt are from the area where most of their forest is inaccessible mountainous landscape. Their deliberate attempt is to jeopardize the project and let everybody suffer. The resource owners are expecting this group of desperados to come up to the resource areas and promote their agendas, where the actual activities are going to take place.<br />
<br />
However, resource owners are wondering; whose interest they are pursuing and what alternative do they have to offer in the absence of logging? The worst case scenario that could arise is all out war against each other. Illiterates at home don't know much about sophisticated management and technical aspect of the process. All they worry about is someone who can turn their trees in to money. <br />
<br />
The message from the Forest Department was clear enough on the issues of human errors and technical blunders and even resource owners were told that, administrative matters can be rectified during a supplementary period. And those that thought they have missed out shall be included during supplementary exercise or at any time during the period of logging. No resource owner is going to be a spectator even if you think otherwise.<br />
<br />
Once again core resources owners are calling on those disgruntle resource owners to respect the innocent ones at home and support the project. Unless you have an alternative idea, which shall better serve the interest of everybody in the area. <br />
<br />
<b>JACK NOAH YAMAHA <br />
Port Moresby</b>The Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-92015281158987583442010-03-01T13:58:00.000+10:002010-03-01T13:58:08.369+10:00Scandals remain unresolved<b>By SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT</b><br />
<br />
<b>WHEN assuming office after the 2007 general elections, Prime Minister Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare promised Papua New Guinean citizens "a new path for enhanced growth and development as credible and dignified nation".</b><br />
<br />
These were the opening remarks by Sir Michael in his State of the Nation's address delivered in Parliament House on Sept 18, 2007, during the opening of the PNG's Eighth National Parliament.<br />
<br />
Today, many PNG citizens are asking if these words of being "credible and dignified" in the handling of important national issues, particularly major scandals and controversies involving ministers and members of government have been fulfilled.<br />
<br />
The apparent lack of appropriate action to fight corruption at high places is a major concern among citizens and non-citizens alike.<br />
<br />
The level of corruption has reached unprecedented level. Many concern citizens are asking why a blind eye has been turned on this cancerous issue. It is fast destroying the fabric of Papua New Guinean society.<br />
<br />
For instance, controversy surrounding the Moti Affair has been the subject of discussion from corporate boardrooms to street talk and prison cells PNG-wide since Oct 2006.<br />
<br />
The Defence Force Commission of Inquiry established that on Oct 10, 2007, international fugitive and former Solomon Island Attorney General Julian Moti was spirited out of Port Moresby to Munda, Solomon Islands in a clandestine operation under alleged PM's instructions.<br />
<br />
Action has yet to be taken to prosecute those involved. Instead court relief had been sought to prevent the publication of the Moti Inquiry Report and its recommendations implemented.<br />
<br />
As well, the no appropriate action has been taken against those involved in the failed US29.8 million (K85 million) Taiwan diplomacy scandal. PNG citizens are alleged to have received bribes.<br />
<br />
In Taiwan, the Government has taken court action to order the return of the money from diplomatic brokers Ching Chi-ju and Wu Shih-tsai.<br />
<br />
Chief Ombudsman Chronox Manek has confirmed the Ombudsman Commission is investigating this and another scandal involving $US40 million (K145 million) in Singapore accounts, money from log exports, sitting in a bank account of a PNG government minister looked after by a "consortium" in that country.<br />
<br />
Mr Manek said because it involved different jurisdictions, the investigations would take time. OC investigators travelled to Singapore and Taiwan towards the end of last year and returned with some valuable information.<br />
Other controversies that remain unresolved include declaration of shareholding in Pacific Registry of Ships Limited; and court actions to stop the Ombudsman Commission and the Public Prosecutor from performing their constitutionally mandated duties on allegations of the PM not completing or providing annual returns since 1992. Also outstanding is the OC's referral of State Enterprises Minister Arthur Somare to the Public Prosecutor on March 9. <br />
<br />
The respect, credibility and dignity of the government appear to be fast diminishing. Concerns have also been raised over the continued support of the government by government backbenchers and ministers.<br />
<br />
All Government ministers, vice ministers, parliamentary committee chairmen and backbenchers are equally guilty by their association and support.The Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-72250282758542170962010-03-01T13:55:00.000+10:002010-03-01T13:55:28.572+10:00Engans die as Ipatas meddles in public service<b>IT HAS been very interesting for me as a former Enga Assembly member, who has served the very people of Enga from 1990 to 1995, to read about our Honorable Governor, Mr. Peter Ipatas complaining about small administrative issues in the media. </b><br />
<br />
This to me is a childish statement and deliberate intention of tarnishing and diminishing a reputable and simple public servant who has performed to his ability in delivering most needed health services to the very people who have voted Mr Ipatas. <br />
<br />
Mr. Salan Ere, (who was my former colleage) is a professional health extension officer (HEO) and a career public servant who was clocked 26 years in the public sector, and 4 years in politics as Member of the Enga Provincial Assembly from 1990 to 1995 and held senior portfolios like Finance and Planning for three consecutive years, under the premiership of Danly Tinduwi.<br />
<br />
Furthermore, during the time of Mr. Salan Ere, as a provincial minister responsible for financial meters, planning and budgeting only K12, 000,000 and thus handling of political issues as the Deputy Premier of Enga under Tinduwi's political regime, he has never been once questioned by the Auditor General's office or referred to the Ombudsman Commission like Mr. Ipatas who was found guilty and fined K1, 000 each for 16 counts and paid K16, 000.00 in total as fine.<br />
<br />
Since Ipatas took over from Danly Tinduwi in 1996, as Governor of Enga, politics has crept into very important education and health institutions. As a result, Sopas District Hospital in Wabag District, then provincial hospital entirely owned and operated by the Seventh Day Adventist Mission (SDA) has closed due to continuous political influence and interference in 1998. Thus also resulting in a very important institution; the only Nursing College being transferred to Pacific Adventist University in Port Moresby by the SDA Church.<br />
<br />
Also Mambsianda district hospital located in Wapendamenda district, owned and operated by the Gutnius Lutheran Church which has also been recognized as a provincial hospital for several years has been crippled by continuous political interference by Mr Ipatas and his political cronies.<br />
<br />
We are talking about 300,000 plus Enga people's lives being at stake at this crucial moment. Where does Ipatas stands: to save lives of people who are dying of curable disease daily or continue to politicize health institutions and decrease the Enga population?<br />
<br />
I think, Mr. Ipatas should prioritize and accommodate law and order in his provincial budget, (which has not been the case in his 13 years administration) and address all tribal warfare taking tens of thousands of lives and destroying property worth millions. The Enga Police facilities like vehicles, operational costs, allowances, cell block, police residence etc, have deteriorated over the past 13 years and who is responsible!<br />
<br />
Finally, honorable Governor, we call you the action man, you should immediately stop the two tribal fights in Surunki, Laiagam district and Suyane in Kandep District which has claimed more than 15 lives within a month. Your immediate priority is to concentrate on your backyard rather than sponsoring rugby league for political gain and sticking your nose into administrative matters. You have never been a public servant yourself and whilst you are talking about petty issues, your own people are dying, starving for basic health and education services, homeless and scattered all over PNG in hope of experiencing peace, harmony and fair distribution of resources and business opportunities.<br />
<br />
<b>Nathan Piari (Mr.)<br />
Former Enga Assembly Member and <br />
Minister for Finance and Planning</b>The Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-16805640361648811582010-03-01T13:53:00.000+10:002010-03-01T13:53:24.588+10:00Somare's successor hard to find<b>THE Rt Honourable Sir Michael Somare declared himself in Kandep that he will bow out in 2012. </b><br />
<br />
If it is true then there will be huge void left behind the father of this nation and the longest serving politician in PNG and the Commonwealth.<br />
<br />
The man, who led the nation from the dark ages to where it is today, will leave a very proud legacy but a huge void none will be able to fit in his shoes. <br />
<br />
Sir Michael Somare, who fought for the poor and the oppressed, women and children, a committed family man and public servant, will leave a very crystal clear path for the future generation to learn from and lead the nation.<br />
<br />
Sir M.Somare has indicated that there are many potential leaders out there who will take the challenge and lead the nation. He never mentioned or recommended anyone in his National Alliance party, or other coalition partners. A man of wisdom always knows that anybody can do the job of the prime minister. If he had mentioned anyone he would have offended the coalition partners or his NA party members. <br />
<br />
In many countries, prime ministers, presidents and kings always recommend successors but in PNG it was not. However, fewer world leaders, who have trust and confidence in their country's know that anyone who has the potential to lead the nation never recommends anyone but that was up to the people to decide.<br />
<br />
Come 2012 elections, it will be very hard to find someone like Sir Somare who has turned the economy around. Out of his four regional deputy leaders, Sir Puka Temu would be a right candidate as he has proven that he has potential to unite PNG. The other three would be too young because it not good for the future generation. <br />
<br />
From among the coalition, Southern Highlands Governor Henderson Aigiru stands out. Honourable Aigiru has proven to be the potential candidate. <br />
<br />
In the opposition, the two former Prime ministers (Hon. Sir Morauta and Hon. Sir Chan) and Honourable Bart Philemon would be possible candidates.<br />
<br />
In contemporary PNG society, people must be united and sharing wealth and resources together. Many candidates would be available for selection in 2012 but a few who spoke about unity and equal distribution of resources and wealth and are committed to the development of PNG while being united are Sir Puka, Sir Meker, Sir Julius, Hon. Philemon and Hon. Agiru.<br />
<br />
These leaders have spoken about unity of PNG and equal distribution of the country's wealth.<br />
It's up to the People of PNG to gear up for coming elections in 2012.<br />
<br />
<b>Gibson Palimas, <br />
China </b>The Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-31846636729604611202010-03-01T13:51:00.000+10:002010-03-01T13:51:33.299+10:00PNG needs more Helen Clarks and Carol Kidus!<b>TODAY PNG needs more Helen Clarks and Dame Carol Kidus to make a big difference in the way our country needs to be governed. I am a great admirer of these two women who have achieved so much for their countries. </b><br />
<br />
Helen Clark has been a great leader of New Zealand in recent years and I am sure her latest role as a UNDP administrator will bring about much required change to our region and globally in the years to come.<br />
<br />
Dame Carol is also a great PNG politician. She has made a lot of difference in PNG politics in her three terms as an MP. It would be great to see more women parliamentarians as they enhance the overall quality of parliamentary discussions where much needed debate is required before laws are passed for the country. <br />
<br />
It is a pity that she intends not running for public office in 2012 but we need more champions for the marginalised people of PNG. As part motuan I am very angry about what is happening to the cultural enviroment of this peaceful race of people of Central province and am very concerned sad that the Motu-Koita people may now not be well represented in future without Dame Kidu around.<br />
<br />
The recent decision to have 22 reserved seats for women in parliament is a step in the right direction even if it is a bit late (after 34 years after Independence). Whilst a collective NEC decision, many people will still attribute this to the tireless efforts (despite many unfair criticisms) of Dame Carol Kidu both in and outside parliament. Well done Dame.<br />
<br />
Today, PNG's governance is going off on a tangent. This country desperately needs real credible leaders like Dame Kidu still serving the people of PNG in parliament. The public is now urged to give their support in whatever way needed to "keep Kidu" as PNG needs more MPs like her.<br />
<br />
<b>Reginald Renagi<br />
Port Moresby</b>The Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-58889151557125556292010-03-01T13:50:00.000+10:002010-03-01T13:50:19.260+10:00Witch hunters' weapon<b>THE OMBUDSMAN Commission (OC) is created under the Constitution. It is an important creature of Constitution. Leaders and public officials are subject to the OC. But the OC is now unreachable and untouchable.</b><br />
<br />
Knowing the law is one thing. Seeking justice and fairness is another matter. Such seems to be the case with Patrick Pruaitch.<br />
<br />
When the OC gave the leader right to be heard in September 2006 and after the leader responded in October and November 2006 the OC delayed its deliberation and carried out new investigations.<br />
<br />
A summons issued to Kanawi Pouru by the OC in Phoebe Sangetari on January 2008 while asking for copies of cheques for verification sought other new and additional information.<br />
<br />
Then in July 2009 the OC referred Patrick Pruaitch to the Public Prosecutor for leadership law tribunal to be set up on request.<br />
<br />
A leadership tribunal has been set up by the Chief Justice. It was to have convened on 23 February 2010 if not for a stay order from the Supreme Court.<br />
<br />
In a true spirit of seeking justice Patrick Pruaitch sought judicial review and a constitutional right enforcement before the National Court.<br />
<br />
On each occasion the National Court refused entry to the door of justice and fairness. This is under appeal to the Supreme Court.<br />
<br />
Nonetheless, following leadership cases will show that, the OC is very superior to the National Court. The National Court will find all the legal and procedural technicality to keep leaders and public officials out of lawful protection.<br />
<br />
Truth about OC is 'killing leaders of PNG' is its song. When it sings Waigani dances and its National Court hides justice and fairness. Where do leaders go to seek justice and fairness when the National Court continues to shut its door?<br />
<br />
Taking time to understand serious leadership killing game leaders will see OC for what it is. Telling arrogance and pride are lawyers and judges who act out of jealousy.<br />
<br />
Raising legal and procedural defence is quite common in cases. Playing leaders' position and denying them entry to the door of justice and fairness lawyers and judges work for killing leaders of PNG. Such was unheard of in our country in times past.<br />
<br />
Reality is desperate lawyers and judges will resort to desperate measures. Never before has legal practice been as worse as now. <br />
<br />
And OC is an example of law and politics being badly played.<br />
<br />
<b>James Wanjik </b><br />
<b>Port Moresby</b>The Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-52533370324709399852010-02-22T14:27:00.000+10:002010-02-22T14:27:05.275+10:00Kapris treated differently from other escapeesTHE techniques adopted by notorious criminal mastermind and three-time escapee from Bomana Correctional Institute's Maximum Security Prison, William Kapris, are somewhat similar to the work of the world's most wanted black notorious criminal and prison mastermind in the United States, "King Larry Hoover", who is known as a "Minister' in the Colorado Prison. <br />
<br />
Larry Hoover, operates and masterminds many of the crimes in the cities of United States, from his prison cell, that are worth millions of dollars for him and his associates for the purpose of growth and development among his elite network that involves high profile people in the political and bureaucratic circles as well as members of the military or disciplinary forces who are involved in and execute his desired plans. <br />
<br />
In our local scenario when we look at the work of William Kapris who is also known as a Minister operating in prison, he is not a high risk murderer or rapist that the people think he is. <br />
<br />
But he is rather a high profile celebrity committing bigger crimes to rob enough money to share and feed the poor and the little and forgotten grass root people who have not been well looked after by the so called elected leaders. Those adopted and masterminded techniques have been seen as a successful strategy that is now employed by other high profile celebrities or sources in all levels. And as a prisoner he is only used as a "hitman", by people who are locked up with him in his maximum security unit cell block.<br />
<br />
The stories are becoming clearer now to believe that the escape of William Kapris and other 11 hardcore prisoners from maximum security unit on the 12 January 2010 was not his intention to do so but it was the work of the high profile celebrities commanded by a civilian beautiful woman who pretended to be a human rights lawyer that forced themselves into this high security prison with the help of their counterparts, "uniformed" correctional officers, and conducted a perfect work of the day. Mr Kapris was well protected and without a single scratch during the time of the escape and even during the time of his recapture and return to the maximum security unit despite plans to split his. <br />
<br />
The opposite action was taken on the mates of Kapris, John Siko Wel and James Pari Bomai as part of their bodies were split off with blood spilling all over their bodies and it looks like they will not escape again in the future.<br />
<br />
For William Kapris Nanua his escapes also brought relief to the law and justice agencies as the government has spent millions of kina by police operations and investigations work, forced by the actions of the prisoner. Every time when Kapris escapes the government immediately comes in to assist the law enforcement agencies - police and correctional service with the purchasing of new vehicles and other operational resources, apart from the funding of the re-capture operations and investigations work.<br />
<br />
Thank you Mr Kapris for your kind gesture every time you set foot out of Bomana maximum prison gate. Imagine if the government does the same to other more than 100 hardcore prisoners who escaped about the same period with Kapris, we can be rest assured that there will be more new vehicles more than enough to allocate to police and correctional service officers to assist in the daily duties.<br />
<br />
The Police investigators who were conducting their interviews with William Kapris at the time were interrupted and did not complete their interview and were ordered that he be immediately taken to Bomana Prison. <br />
<br />
And the Commissioner's intention to visit William Kapris Nanua in his prison cell was further interrupted by Attorney General and Justice Minister Dr. Allan Marat, former Police Commmissioner Peter Aigilo and his Correctional Service Counterpart, Acting Commissioner Henry Wavik when they visited Minister Kapris in his prison cell on Tuesday 9 February 2010 from 5.00 pm to 7.30 pm a day earlier than Mr. Baki's appointment date of Wednesday 10 February 2010, officially made to Henry Wavik to visit Mr. Kapris in his cell block.<br />
<br />
The interest and intention for the high profile politicians and top law and order bureaucrats to visit and talk to prisoner Kapris at this time when his was trying to reveal and expose the names of high profile celebrities who may have some connections with him is more suspicious and could be an act of conspiracy to divert the course of justice in the whole bank robbery and escape cases.<br />
<br />
The ordinary police, warders and citizens of this country need to know the reasons why these people are going into prison to visit Kapris when the government investigation team is already in Bomana Prison conducting the investigations into the whole issue. <br />
<br />
Where is fairness in the law and justice system? If the leaders' actions is seen as not a fairness in the law and justice system then it's good to have the political leaders attending NEC meeting in Kimbe to make a decision and approve the return of the Australian ECP Police to come to PNG and conduct the investigation into William Kapris Nanua cases and other police work.<br />
<br />
These gentlemen should be suspended from their offices and investigated by police immediately because their actions now affect the majority of prisoners in their effort and long wait for their power of mercy and parole releases. The parole release papers of rapist/politician James Yali in Boen CIS is only waiting for signatures of Marat and Wavik. <br />
<br />
Is William Kapris Nanua next on their list for release? William Kapris Nanua has his own list a good number of high profile names to be released as well. So, don't interfere with the work of his 'release list.'The Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-13010542912027325362010-02-22T14:24:00.000+10:002010-02-22T14:24:37.529+10:00Give Defence a pay rise now!I FULLY support the recent call for a 100 per cent pay rise for our servicemen and woman in light of the ever-rising cost of living. <br />
<br />
As apart from the special service loading and other military-related allowances to compensate for the exigencies of life in the military, the general wage scales of the PNGDF must be in parity with those of the police and CIS.<br />
<br />
Our loyal, dedicated and committed troops in all three elements deserve a well-earned pay rise. This has been outstanding for too long and defence hierarchy has no excuse for the delay. There is no question about money shortage as the government is flush with cash. The troops see and read about government ministers and senior beauracrats misuse public monies, so money is no object to give the troops a decent pay rise now. <br />
<br />
The military is very well informed of many state agencies that make a lot of noise in recent times have been given what they demand by the government. If defence leaders had at some time back made the right representation to Waigani, a timely pay rise would have been forthcoming for our troops sooner. <br />
<br />
It is quiet sad that an element of the military were compelled to petition their superiors at Defence headquarters in Murray Barracks. This would not have occurred had top management fought hard for their troops to get a pay rise they need, but being denied for a long time. It is no wonder the troop's patience ran out last week as reported by the media. <br />
<br />
Despite our troop's loyalty, long service and patience, they and their families throughout the defence community, have being failed by the system. The defence force needs a pay rise now and should bring it up on par with the police, whom have had a two pay rises under this government since 2007. <br />
<br />
The servicemen have been patience for far too long. The ministry, department and PNGDF headquarters must get off their backside and demand that the men get what is due to them. The defence council has collectively failed in their responsibility to make some much needed improvements to service conditions of the servicemen and women of our military in a timely manner. <br />
<br />
The PNGDF fulfills a very important national function to protect the nation, yet the government has failed to look after this once powerful organization since independence. I call upon the prime minister and the government to give the PNGDF a well deserved pay rise. <br />
<br />
The money is not a big problem for the government. It just spent over some K120 million on a useless <br />
Falcon jet for just 12 people to fly around in, and a reported K8 million on an expensive climate-change conference in Copenhagen last year that has not brought any immediate changed benefits for PNG, with another useless meeting on again in Mexico this year. <br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Reginald Renagi<br />
Port Moresby</b>The Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-40915358143230267412010-02-22T14:23:00.000+10:002010-02-22T14:23:18.290+10:00Claims by NGO group misleading and defamatoryYOUR article, "Madang NGO group challenges logging giant" (14/2/10), completely misrepresents both the Rimbunan Hijau Group and the current legal proceedings regarding the Middle Ramu Block 1 concession.<br />
Logging operations at Middle Ramu are currently being wound down.<br />
<br />
This follows a Supreme Court decision in November 2009, which found fault with the way the concession was allocated by the Papua New Guinea Forest Authority (PNGFA). This decision overturned an earlier National Court decision that confirmed the action of PNGFA in awarding the concession to Rimbunan Hijau was correct.<br />
<br />
The court did not find fault with the operations or conduct of Rimbunan Hijau, the current concession holder, nor has it "banned" logging within the concession.<br />
<br />
The Supreme Court has ordered the PNGFA to re-evaluate the forestry development proposal lodged by Madang Timbers Limited during the original tender process. If the Madang Timbers proposal is in order; Madang Timbers will undertake logging operations in the concession area in future.<br />
<br />
Claims by the American-backed group 'Asples Madang' and Ecological Internet stating that landowners are opposed to logging in the concession are not correct.<br />
<br />
As is common in PNG, various landowner factions will support the developer that comes closest to serving individual interests.<br />
<br />
More than 100 incorporated landowner groups (ILGs) expressed their support for Rimbunan Hijau's operations in MRB1 in December 2009.<br />
<br />
Claims by Ecological Internet that RH has bribed landowners, government officials and police are defamatory and without merit.<br />
<br />
The story refers to a Greenpeace report that claims Rimbunan Hijau is engaged in illegal logging and human rights violations. As has been demonstrated by a number of independent reports and audits, Rimbunan Hijau does not engage in illegal logging and its treatment of workers and communities is exemplary.<br />
<br />
The story claims that a 'recent' report from the Department of Labour found fault with Rimbunan Hijau's operations is also without merit and defamatory.<br />
<br />
The report in question was published in 2004. It was commissioned externally by the Department of Labour, which rejected the report's claims after further investigation and subsequently did not publish the report.<br />
<br />
We suggest that the <i>Sunday Chronicle</i> check its facts with local organizations and the subjects of its reporting rather than relying on the half-truths of foreign-based activists.<br />
<br />
<b>Axel Wilhelm<br />
Manager- Corporate Policy and Affairs<br />
Rimbinan Hijau Group</b>The Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-90434257822098158992010-02-22T14:21:00.000+10:002010-02-22T14:21:02.522+10:00Yama has nothing to do with threatsWE write to air our views and concerns regarding recent media reports about PNG Law Society President Kerenga Kua, Motor Vehicle Insurance Limited Managing Director Dr John Mua and Peter Yama.<br />
<br />
The media reported that Mr Kua and Dr Mua did not want to pay Mr Yama's company the money as ordered by the highest court of this land. Therefore Mr Yama is alleged to have placed K100,000 on the heads of the two to be killed.<br />
<br />
Just by looking at the reports, the allegations of threats on the lives of these two high profile men are just rubbish, unfounded and childish. Why run away and make baseless statements when they can defend themselves?<br />
<br />
From the layman's point of view, they would have saved millions by paying Yama Security Services the initial National Court Judgment Order of K3.8 million in an out of court settlement. But now the amount has doubled and would triple if it is continued to be delayed. Why should MVIL pay millions of kina to one person when thousands of Third Party Insurance claims of motor vehicle accidents are still pending?<br />
<br />
The public will also question why police have been prevented from exercising their constitutional duty. Why obstruct the duty of the police?<br />
<br />
We know that Mr Yama would never do such silly things like murdering somebody. We know that he is a God fearing man who has a heart for everyone mainly from the grassroots up. He has spent so much time in the courts fighting cases involving business and politics. He is a fighter who battles for legal justice. Whoever doubts Mr Yama's reputation and credibility is totally wrong because we the grassroots know that he is a straight shooter.<br />
<br />
How could a man who has won a Supreme Court decision, threatens somebody? The law is on his side already and these claims of threats do not make sense.<br />
<br />
Someone is playing delay tactic in releasing the money. If the bank has an outstanding loan by Mr Yama's company then let the bank claim it through normal court processes by filing new proceedings. That's the way to go. <br />
<br />
Mr Yama, we admire you as a true leader who can speak for the voiceless grassroots people because we know you came up the hard way from a humble beginning.<br />
<br />
<b>Unemployed Youths<br />
Lae City</b>The Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-34414905632073776112010-02-22T14:19:00.000+10:002010-02-22T14:19:01.705+10:00Has license approval in order?BANG, we did it again! Despite the existing ban on new logging licenses, a new license has recently been reissued to revive the massive Lolo TRP area in Cape Gloucester district, West New Britain province.<br />
<br />
Perhaps the National Forest Authority (NFA) could tell Papua New Guinea how this became possible. NFA should also tell the country why everything about it has been kept "top secret" including the signing of the project agreement in Port Moresby. The usual media exposure expected for any major resource development had been excluded from this signing ceremony.<br />
<br />
The National Executive Council, Forest Minister and the National Forest Board should also tell Papua New Guinea if they were involved, and if they did, on what basis was the approval made, especially against an existing ban. Or was it because it was only a renewal of an existing license? It is in the best interest of PNG, the resource owners and more so, for the sake of good governance and transparency, that the official version be registered.<br />
<br />
I am one of those who will be affected by the project and I am very concerned. I and my Lolo people had seen and felt the pain of exploitive logging activities between 1989 and 1995. The project had given us nothing but an absolute destruction of our social livelihood and our environment.<br />
From the millions of kina earned from the project, we were left with nothing except a destroyed people, rusting machine parts and accessories including vehicles, and a stretch of road and an airstrip that had long been overgrown with thick jungle.<br />
<br />
Where had all the millions gone to? May be those very people that are now again at the helm of this project should know the answers. If they did not know directly, they should know one way or another because they were part of the landowner company.<br />
<br />
Everything they attempted to do from the excessive wealth derived from the project doomed to failure. The agriculture efforts in cocoa development failed, the business development effort in wholesale ventures failed, the investment effort in real estate failed, the construction effort in roads and buildings failed, and so as everything else they tried to do.<br />
<br />
What they were known for, at least one significant feature that survived, was excessive and lavish lifestyles they pursued that included reckless spending with booze topping the list, unnecessary leisure trips and travels around the country and the list was endless. <br />
<br />
Unfortunately this started already when they were in Lae and then in Port Moresby to sign the second agreement recently. Several of them were refused to fly to Port Moresby because they were pissed to their eyeballs. While in Port Moresby, the whole time was spent on excessive booze up and parties. <br />
<br />
I challenge the executives of the landowner company to do it right for the people this time. Though they have deliberately kept out some elite landowners, "an act that bordered on nothing but pure greed and narcissism", Lolo is home and Lolo is where we all end up. <i><b>Namir_sam@yahoo.com</b></i><br />
<br />
<b>Iau Lektatano Pou<br />
Port Moresby <br />
</b>The Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-31124859043049174922010-02-22T14:17:00.000+10:002010-02-22T14:17:22.957+10:00K10m DSIP not producing resultsI am a concerned leader in Southern Highlands province. I would like to express my opinion and dissatisfaction over the District Improvement Support Grant of K10 million allocated for each district in the province.<br />
<br />
The money was given by the National Government for basic services and needs for the people of SHP, yet I observed that nothing was done.<br />
<br />
All the nine SHP MPs have been given the mandate to lead when they got elected but there has been no improvement in the province. The grant was not used in all the districts so where did the money go to? There have been some false accounting given on work been done but this appears to be only speculation. <br />
<br />
MPs can fool village people but they cannot fool God. Every little move by all the nine MPs has been monitored. With the 2012 election approaching, it looks like some MPs are caught up in a rush hour.<br />
Shame on those MPs who were doing last minute work which would not determine the future of SHP. I am a true leader talking on behalf of my grassroots people of SHP.<br />
<br />
We have not seen much of Governor Anderson Agiru and his work.<br />
<br />
John Mombulu Arikepo<br />
MendiThe Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-72183584664737261132010-02-15T14:28:00.000+10:002010-02-15T14:28:43.821+10:00Who will be the next Prime Minister?RECENTLY the media raised interesting questions: "Who will be the next PM when the prime minister quits politics in 2011 before the 2012 National Elections; What will happen to the National Alliance Party or the current Government?<br />
<br />
This is a subjective issue and you will get many different answers. I will try to predict what may happen gauging from public perceptions and opinions of a coalition government's performance since the 2002 national elections.<br />
<br />
So who will be the next PM? This is easy in an ideal political world where the job will naturally go to the next senior MP after the prime minister in the ruling party's hierarchical 'chain of command'. In this case, it should go to the deputy PM, Sir Puka Temu if the PM quits politics next year as speculated. <br />
<br />
This will not happen because we are not in an ideal political world. There are many competing interests and shifting alliances within any coalition party government. <br />
<br />
First of all, the PM will not quit politics in 2011 and before the elections. PM Somare is enjoying the feeling of power and controlling the destiny of some six million citizens that he would still has to extend his record breaking streak of being in politics until after the 2012 national elections. <br />
<br />
More so, no one believes this talk of leaving politics any more. The people of PNG have heard it many times before, like prior to the 2012 and 2007 elections as predicted. The PM did not quit politics as speculated by the media like this one.<br />
<br />
On a hypothetical note, if the PM was to quit politics in 2011 due to some reason like ill-health, the NA party will most likely see splits in its senor ranks. Some party members have openly shown that they do not prefer the deputy PM take the reins as they see themselves as the ideal choice for the top job. A further outcome is that the NA party may not do too well in the 2012 polls without the stabilizing presence of its draw-card, the grand chief; the glue holding the NA party together.<br />
<br />
With due respects to other NA party members, no one is eminently qualified with the required seniority, depth of public administration knowledge and experience; and political maturity to succeed the PM Somare than the Deputy PM, Sir Puka Temu. Sir Puka has the edge over all the NA party's regional deputies as none were effective departmental heads like him before entering politics. <br />
<br />
Apart from the deputy PM, there is another option that may seem a controversial outcome but not impossible. This option could be another record breaker for the grand chief that will be unbeatable in both PNG and Commonwealth politics. If PM Somare was really serious about elevating the status of PNG women in his twilight years of politics, he will give his job to the best performing MP in the coalition government: Dame Carol Kidu. The Dame as an MP has no equal and her actions speak louder than words as she is well supported by a competent Secretary running an effective department compared to most of her peers.<br />
<br />
This decisive action by Grand Chief Somare will be in full recognition for the tireless efforts of a lone woman MP (and one of PNG's best lawmakers in recent times). This will upset the men in parliament but they will soon get over it to see that good governance, accountability, responsibility and 'sanity' returns to both parliament and government before the 2012 national elections.<br />
<br />
Finally, I predict PM Somare is not yet ready to quit politics in 2011 and before the 2012 national elections. There are still many outstanding political reforms left by former PM, Sir Mekere that this government has yet to progress and this is no time to be quitting politics.<br />
<br />
<b>Reginald Renagi<br />
Port Moresby </b>The Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-8425604563499913712010-02-15T14:27:00.000+10:002010-02-15T14:27:16.499+10:00Agwi's move must be applaudedAS A patriotic citizen of this country, I was surprised when reading new PNGDF commander Brigadier -General Francis Agwi's desire to rectify the force's performance to meet the growing demand placed on it in the fact of this nation being faced with many controversial security issues.<br />
<br />
Agwi is contemplating on the fact that the PNGDF is a national instrument that plays a crucial role in serving and protecting the sovereignty of this country, and is wasting no time in taking diagnostic measures to remedy the loopholes PNGDF has in its functionality. I laud him for taking this bold step in quickly acting to solve outstanding matters as well as focusing on fine-tuning the force to meet future demands preemptively.<br />
<br />
I was quite amazed when I read the news of Agwi advocating against family violence and polygamy with the PNGDF circles. It is quite moving that he has pledged never to tolerate, as as such, come hard on soldiers who practice polygamy and involve in family violence.<br />
<br />
Applauding the good precedent set by Agwi, one thing I want the new commander to prioritise is increase the current 2,000 defence force personnel to 5,000 as proposed in the medium term military plan, by convincing the government for funding. This would beef up security at the borders and seas where smuggling of illegal products is rampant and foreigners illegally entering our shores. <br />
<br />
A logical government will consider that what it spends on training 2,000 - 3,000 military personnel in a space of two to three years is far less than what it is losing in tax revenue through smuggling of goods into the country and our resources out of the country.<br />
<br />
As such, with the support of the Government, Agwi must embark on increasing the PNGDF.<br />
With Agwi, the PNDDF's prospect of being a sound and robust force is brighter.<br />
<br />
<b>Komson Nick Kome<br />
Hohola, NCD</b>The Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-26044017675708655442010-02-15T14:25:00.000+10:002010-02-15T14:25:52.559+10:00PNG water should be processed in PNGAN ARTICLE written by Abbie Collaco which appeared in Sunday Chronicle on January 17, drew my attention. <br />
<br />
He highlighted the call by Mr Jei Wai, who called on the National Executive Council to reject the submission being processed by the Deputy Prime Minister, to allow an Australian company to pipe water from Lai River to Mendi to Cairns Australia for processing.<br />
<br />
Whether the submission has already been prepared or still in the process I am unable to ascertain. But the fact is I totally agree with Mr Jei Wai that PNG water should not be piped to Australia, but be processed here in Papua New Guinea.<br />
<br />
Needless to say it will create jobs for Papua New Guineans, boost our exchange rate and value of PNG kina and bring a trail of other benefits to PNG.<br />
<br />
Water, like land and human resource is the source of life and survival for the people of Hela and Papua New Guinea.<br />
<br />
North Queensland has some beautiful rivers and streams capable to supply water to the inhabitants of Australia. I can understand if Australia is like Sahara desert, then surely the end justifies the means. For the pipeline to run parallel to the oil and gas lines would create suspicion about what is really being piped. <br />
Technology is so complicated this at this day and age that anything can be camouflaged.<br />
<br />
The only huge project that Australia established here in PNG is the Panguna Mine. The project unfortunately was short circuited due to reasons known to the landowners and the Australian company and PNG Government.<br />
<br />
I suggest, the Government of PNG calls for tenders for a local company, and help find the company to set up a processing plant and produce water locally in PNG.<br />
<br />
If the local company cannot secure funding then they can go into joint venture with the overseas company to process our water.<br />
<br />
Eda Ranu is doing quite well in PNG or Port Moresby to be more specific. We have the best water in Port Moresby. One can drink straight from the tap. <br />
<br />
There are many water sources in PNG that are still to be tapped. People drink straight from the stream and fountain so why pipe to Australia?<br />
<br />
<b>Water Lilly <br />
Port Moresby</b> The Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-38391396807324965242010-02-15T14:24:00.000+10:002010-02-15T14:24:27.246+10:00Powes Parkop for Prime MinisterPAPUA New Guinea a country blessed with all the riches that you could ever name from the mountains to the costal islands, it is surely a paradise.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, these riches are not reflected on all the citizens of this great country and the paradise is not so because we have been ripped off and denied our birth rights by a minority pack of leaders who are selfish, greedy and evil. <br />
<br />
In the light of this God has come to the aid of this nation through the incredible and humble leadership of this great governor of NCD -Hon. Powes Parkop. <br />
<br />
In just two years one cannot believe the amount of work he has done through new initiatives and projects that he has done in NCD. He has even taken up the task to carry out district improvements in all the three NCD open electorates leaving their respective members with virtually nothing to work or rather revealing their inefficiencies and lack of basic services delivery woes.<br />
<br />
I wonder what Moresby will be like at the end of his term in 2012. From the current scenario I am foreseeing significant changes with new infrastructural developments, beautification and remodelling of the city to be the pearl of the Pacific which will definitely have a direct positive attitude change on everyone. <br />
<br />
This clearly shows that he's a leader who's got the heart for his people. He's got all the attributes that defines a perfect leader, hence he stands tall above the pack, his actions are louder than his words and his words are full of wisdom and understanding, he walks and lives a normal life like the rest of us, he is the light at the end of the dark tunnel and answer to all the political corruption that has taken away what is right fully for the simple people of this land.<br />
<br />
There's a dawn of a new era and let God be glorified for giving us Powes Parkop; he is the answer to all our leadership problems that our nation is currently facing. He is the man capable of rescuing us with his strong, honest, prudent and transparent leadership. He can maximise the huge returns of the LNG projects to make a difference in everyone's life, not just few politicians and their cronies.<br />
<br />
God has already given him the mandate and now he has gained the support and mandate of all Papua New Guineans across all sectors and walks of life. He is the man to lead this nation to the next generation and beyond and is truly Prime Ministerial material. <br />
<br />
I urge everyone including the politicians, civil servants and the rest of us with the nation at heart to support Mr. Parkop to be the next PM.<br />
<br />
Let's look forward to 2012, Mr. Parkop you have my support whatever it takes. May you be the Prime Minister of this great land in the near future.<br />
<br />
<b>P.MAMP<br />
Powes Parkop Admirer.<br />
Mt Hagen.</b>The Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72034746300842859.post-59994470707631827232010-02-15T14:22:00.000+10:002010-02-15T14:22:05.480+10:00Country Party sets record straightIN RECENT weeks, there have been many instances of party executives exercising or abusing various powers under their constitution and the Organic Law on Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates.<br />
<br />
The Country Party wishes to state that it does no solicits K500 as membership fee nor does it have a Party Secretary named Paul Mamito. Further, Paul Mamito is not a financial member of PNG Country Party.<br />
Should any person be interested in joining Country Party, it can contact the Party Leader, Hon. Jamie Maxtone-Graham or Secretary Wilson Ortegge. <br />
<br />
For confirmation, the party officials are;<br />
1. Party Leader - Hon. Jamie Maxtone - Graham, (72007799)<br />
2. Deputy Leader - Hon. Jim Nomane, MP<br />
3. President - Sir Sinake Giregire, CSM, CBE<br />
4. Deputy President - Nelson Duwabare, (71254765)<br />
5. Secretary General - Wilson Thompson, (71148524)<br />
6. Treasure - Nigel Lai, (72827928)<br />
<br />
The PNG Country Party regrets that persons are impersonating party officials. This should be discouraged and the general public is advised to verify facts with the office of the Registrar of Political Parties or with genuine party officials.<br />
<br />
Finally PNG Country Party is against corruption, bribery and other means and will not commit to such tally of outsiders and will not entertain any such members or officiates.<br />
<br />
<b>Wilson Thompson Ortege, Secretary General<br />
Nelson Duwabane, Deputy President</b>The Sunday Bulletinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16570646764562096455noreply@blogger.com0