The key sectors of business and churches in the city will now be represented on the highest decision-making body of PNG Capital, the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) Board, to further drive the developments of the city forward.
The current composition of the NCDC Board members has been in place in the absence of representatives from the business sector and the body of churches. These important board members were sworn into office this week together with the appointed existing board members.
They joined representatives from the settlements, women and the trade unions. Appointments for youth and Motu Koitabu representatives to the Board are being processed for formalities.
The NCDC Board comprises of the seven sectoral representatives, the three elected open members, the Chairman of the Motu Koita Assembly, the Central Province Administrator and NCD Governor who is the chairman.
The new Board members sworn in are Mr. Chey Schovell from the Business sector, Pastor Bugave Kila representing the Churches, Mr. Clemence Kanau representing the Unions, Mr. Kesley Mune, and Mrs. Ellis Siki representing settlements and women respectively. The latter three were re-appointed from the last board.
NCD Governor and Chairman of the NCDC Board, Powes Parkop was excited with the progress on the composition of the NCDC Board. He said the representatives bring in quality and experience to the Board with new perspectives to move the city forward.
Governor Parkop added the inclusion of the business and church sectors on the board is very important given the key role they play in the city. “Their input is very important and I am glad they are on board this time,” he said.
The NCD Governor expressed confidence in the caliber of the people appointed to the Board and is already looking forward to high-level discussions and participation at the Board.
“They bring to the board and NCDC immense benefits in quality and experience to provide the best in advice in building the city.”
“Embrace the challenges and the responsibility that come with it,” he told the new Commissioners, highlighting the diversity of Port Moresby as the capital city of Papua New Guinea.
NCD differs structurally and administratively from the rest of the country. NCDC operates as a city authority with a municipal obligation to provide services to the city residents.
“I am ready to work with you,” Governor Parkop told the new commissioners.
City Manager Ravu Frank expressed similar sentiments, stating his confidence and the willingness to work together with the NCDC Board.
“I am already assured of a productive working relationship with the management for positive results in implementing the desires of the board to take the city to the next level,” he said.
Meanwhile, the NCDC Act is on the Parliamentary Notice Paper for voting which requires only a simple majority vote. The vote is expected to be taken in November Parliamentary meeting.