Governor Ipatas raises concern over incomplete Porgera Community Development Agreement

The continuous delay in holding the Community Development Agreement [CDA] forum for the Porgera mine is frustrating locals in the area.

Enga's Governor Sir Peter Ipatas believes the CDA forum is key for Porgera Mine to reopen and see operations restored.

A source told NBC, that Porgera mine operations were suspended on Sunday 15th, and will resume on the 19th of September. This is due to the recent unrest around the mine area that forced businesses to shut down.

A concerned Sir Peter Ipatas, Enga's Governor says it's important that the forum is staged so stakeholders such as the State team, Mineral Resources Authority and other agencies find a way forward.

Wabag MP Dr Lino Tom is also calling on the national government to ensure the CDA process is signed because if this does not happen it will result in more problems in the Porgera valley and may affect the mine's operations.

Don Polye appeals for arms to be laid down

The Member for Kandep Don Polye meantime has called on those involved in the tribal warfare in Porgera to lay down their arms.

Thirty people are reported dead while thousands have been displaced and businesses including vital services have been impacted.

Mr Polye blamed the ongoing conflict on illegal mining, lack of socio-economic opportunities, and resettlement of Special Mining Lease landowners.

As a local leader , the Kandep MP hopes people will listen to him and put an end to the violence.

Meantime , a state of emergency has been declared in Pogera with Police Commissioner David Manning sounding a warning that violence will not be tolerated.

He says security personnel will use legitimate powers where appropriate to protect the innocent.