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Corruption in City
Hall to go: Parkop
By HARLYNE JOKU
THE new governor of the National Capital District (NCD) has promised to
end the handout culture of small contracts to political cronies and
other corrupt practices at City Hall even if it makes him unpopular.
Powes Parkop, speaking after the swearing-in ceremony at City Hall last
Friday, said he was aware that the move could end his political career.
He described the NCD Commission (NCDC) as a “milking cow” for certain
city residents who expected contracts and to be paid even if they did
not complete the jobs.
He said some people were even being paid to clean their own backyards
and drains.
“The common perception amongst city residents is that the commission is
rampant with corruption where contracts are awarded to political cronies
whom although paid, do not do their jobs,” he said.
“The money should be used to deliver quality services to city residents
and to fund major development projects for the city.”
Mr Parkop said the biggest challenge was for leaders to stand up against
this culture and put an end to it.
“The commission cannot continue to be a milking cow or tolerate this
handout mentality or culture.
“I am ready to stand up to this culture at the risk of eroding my
political support. I am committed to stop this handout and contract
mentality,” he said.
Mr Parkop said the commission must look beyond the culture of merely
providing contracts to young people to clean streets and drains and be
prepared to provide opportunities for them to re-enter vocational and
technical schools to better their lives.
He said the commission must mobilise its resources to develop the city
and deliver quality services such as education, good roads, medical
care, parks and gardens, markets, public lighting and water supply.
Sir Mekere Morauta (North West MP), Dame Carol Kidu (Moresby South) and
Andrew Mald (Moresby North East) were also sworn in at the ceremony.
 
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