Prime Minister, James Marape has announced an urgent multi-agency stakeholder meeting to address the ongoing eviction concerns at the Erima–Wildlife area, signaling the Government’s intent to intervene swiftly and responsibly.
PM Marape in a statement yesterday said, he had only recently been informed of a private developer’s claim over land titles in the Erima area, reportedly supported by a legal firm, and had not been previously briefed on the matter.
Related news: https://www.nbc.com.pg/post/34083/pm-marape-calls-for-immediate-slowdown-of-evictions-in-port-moresby
“I have called for an immediate meeting tomorrow at 2pm with key stakeholders-including the Justice Department, Ministry of Lands, Police, NCD authorities, and the developer-to fully establish the facts and chart a responsible way forward,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“As a precautionary step, I have asked police hierarchy to temporarily hold off on enforcing any eviction orders until Government is fully briefed and a fair and balanced solution is reached.”
Prime Minister Marape emphasized that while lawful processes must be respected, the Government would not allow actions that could worsen hardship for affected families.
“We cannot allow situations where people’s homes are destroyed abruptly, creating more hardship and instability. Any action must be guided by both the law and humanitarian considerations,” he said.
He said the purpose of the meeting would be to bring all parties together, verify the legal standing of the land, and agree on a path forward that avoids unnecessary conflict.
“Our objective is clear — to find a win-win solution. If the developer has a legitimate title and intends to develop the land, we will work with them. But at the same time, we must ensure our people are treated fairly and not displaced without proper planning and alternatives.”
The Prime Minister assured residents, developers, and the wider public that the Government would take a measured and consultative approach.
Related news: https://www.thepngsun.com/local-businessman-backs-pm-marapes-call-for-slowing-down-evictions-in-ncd/
“We will not rush decisions. We will listen, verify, and act in the best interests of our people and our nation,” he said.