Hiri-Koari MP urges prime minister to halt Connect PNG, prioritize repatriation
Hiri Koari MP, Keith Iduhu, is calling on the Prime Minister and the National Executive Council [NEC] to immediately halt the Connect PNG program and prioritize a nationwide repatriation initiative.
Considering the law and order issues escalating in the cities, Mr. Iduhu said that the government's focus must urgently shift toward sending people back to their home provinces to address the growing issues in urban areas.
"The uncontrolled movement of populations into cities without proper planning has fueled rising crime rates and hampered law enforcement efforts."
He believes a national repatriation program would alleviate pressure on cities and help the police restore law and order.
On settlements, Iduhu said they are illegal and called on Governor Powes Parkop and city authorities to take swift action.
He urged all open members to support the repatriation of vagrants living in cities, emphasizing that addressing this issue decisively is critical to preventing further harm to law and order in Port Moresby and other areas.
Additionally, Iduhu demanded an immediate halt to the selling and informal leasing of customary land, particularly to those establishing illegal settlements.
He stressed that the unchecked sale and leasing of land by local landowners is fueling illegal squatting, contributing to lawlessness and instability.
"Stopping this practice would deter illegal squatting and curb the spread of settlements,"
Iduhu said.
The concerned Kairuku-Hiri MP further added that his commitment to working with all levels of government to implement long-term solutions would enhance governance, security, and economic opportunities for all Papua New Guineans.
"Our nation cannot move forward without social stability. We must act now to restore law and order, uphold the rights of legitimate landowners, and return displaced populations to their home provinces where they can rebuild their lives," Ihudu added.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister James Marape has also reiterated his government's support to the eviction of illegal settlements that have become safe havens for criminals.
In a statement released today, he commended the National Capital District Commission [NCDC] for its ongoing efforts to dismantle these settlements, emphasizing that law and order must be upheld in all communities.
He stressed that eviction will be carried out in an orderly and lawful manner, with government agencies ensuring that those displaced are given proper support to relocate to designated areas.
Iduhu calls for immediate action following brutal murder
Mr Iduhu has urged the public to assist law enforcement agencies by providing any information that could lead to the arrest of those responsible.
"Our communities cannot continue to live in fear," Mr Iduhu said.
"I urge all citizens to cooperate with law enforcement officers and provide any information that will help bring these criminals to justice. Law and order must be restored, and this needs resourcing of the Police and the support of the public."
Mr Iduhu also appealed to the Central Province Governor Rufina Peter to allocate resources to repatriate vagrants from Goilala and other parts of Central Province back to their home villages.
"The rapid increase of informal settlements and displaced populations in urban areas has placed a heavy burden on public services and contributed to social unrest.
"It is time we take responsible measures to support people in returning to their traditional homes where they can contribute productively to their local communities," Iduhu added.
He also made a direct appeal to the people of Hiri-Koiari not to receive any of those displaced but instead report them to the Central Province Police for repatriation forthwith.
"Anyone harboring fugitives shall be identified for eviction. This is a direct call to Hiri-Koiari area residents living amongst and at the kindness of the indigenous Doura, Koiari, Motuans, and Koitabu people," Mr Iduhu stated.
Hiri Koiari MP saddened
Keith Iduhu expressed profound sorrow and outrage over the recent brutal murder of 23-year-old Margaret Gamaru Gabriel in Port Moresby.
He extended his deepest condolences to her family and loved ones during this tragic time.
"Our hearts are heavy with grief for Margaret's family.
"Such heinous acts of violence have no place in our society. I demand that all perpetrators involved in this atrocity be swiftly apprehended and brought to justice." Iduhu said.