By HARLYNE JOKU
FORMER MP for Maprik, Sir Pita Lus, has called on National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop and Maprik MP Gabriel Kapris to immediately find resettlement land for the West Papuans stranded at 9 Mile.
Sir Pita told The National yesterday neither Mr Parkop nor Mr Kapris or the Government had the right to persuade the West Papuans to remain at the 9 Mile portion of land of which he held the land title.
He said he had assisted the West Papuans since 1991 when he was an MP “but the arrangement was temporary”.
He said he now wants the Government to find the West Papuans another place with which to resettle because he wanted to develop his property.
The former politician said pending the final outcome of the case before court, the West Papuans need to move out.
The case which was to be heard at the district court last Friday was deferred to Oct 26.
“I will go ahead with my grader and dozer to develop my land … do not stop me,” he said.
Sir Peter said he had first obtained an eviction order in 1991 and the issue had been dragging up to now.
“I think I have taken care of the West Papuans for some time. Now let the proper authorities find a permanent place for them to settle in,” Sir Pita said.
He made the remarks in response to Gov Powes’ statement that he had connived with the West Papuans in the eviction.
They are now camping at Ela Beach and seeking to be resettled as asylum seekers in a third country.