PM Marape calls for immediate slowdown of evictions in Port Moresby
Prime Minister James Marape has called for an immediate slowdown of eviction exercises currently taking place in parts of the National Capital District, urging all parties involved to act with compassion and responsibility while Government works towards long-term solutions.
Prime Minister Marape said he had been advised of ongoing evictions being carried out under court orders and appealed to those holding such orders to exercise restraint.
“I respectfully ask all those in possession of court orders for eviction to slow down the process. Let us allow both the National Government and the NCD authorities the time and space to find proper, humane, and lasting solutions for our people,” PM Marape said.
He acknowledged that while many informal settlers may not have legal title to the land they occupy, their presence reflects broader socio-economic challenges, including rural-urban migration and the search for better opportunities.
“Many of our people have come into the city in pursuit of a better life. While some settlements may have been established outside formal legal processes, we must approach this issue from a humanitarian perspective,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape emphasized that the Government had not been adequately informed of some of the ongoing eviction exercises and reiterated the need for coordinated action.
“We need a structured and coordinated approach. Government must be given the opportunity to intervene, assess, and facilitate proper settlement arrangements, including relocation where necessary, with dignity and planning,” he said.
He further pointed to previous cases, including evictions at Garden Hills, where land remained undeveloped after residents were removed, raising concerns about the broader impact of such actions.
“In some cases, people have been evicted but the land has not been developed. This raises important questions about timing, planning, and responsibility. Land will not run away — but people’s lives are directly affected,” the Prime Minister stated.
PM Marape also indicated that landowners and developers involved in such evictions may be required to present clear development plans to Government.
He said those holding land titles will be asked to present their development plans as soon as possible as the government is prepared to work with landowners to ensure that development proceeds responsibly, while also ensuring that affected communities are properly relocated.
“We must manage urban development in a way that protects both legal rights and human dignity. We cannot allow our people to be displaced abruptly without proper alternatives in place,” he said.
He confirmed that formal communication would be issued to the Police Commissioner, with copies to the NCD Governor, to ensure enforcement actions are aligned with the Government’s humanitarian approach.
“Our message is clear — slow down the evictions, allow Government to step in, and let us work together to find orderly, fair, and lasting solutions for all parties involved,” Prime Minister Marape said.