Clan leaders want wider consultation

GABSONGKEG clan leaders in Wampar, Huon Gulf, Morobe, are objecting the proposed plan for Nadzab township development, urging responsible Government agencies to conduct wider consultations first.
Wampar local level government president Boaras Giuka and his deputy Bill Justin agreed with Gabsongkeg land association chairman Philip Elijah and deputy Charlie Ginom Paul to sign the petition along with eight clan leaders from Dzeaganchon, Orogwangin, Montar, Oroganchon, Felef, Mporenan, Orogrenan and Moswarang.
At the Jan 11 meeting, the leaders unanimously agreed that the proposed development was inevitable and that they supported it.
However, they said wider consultations with impacted communities should be conducted first.
Spokesman Ben Gary said they rejected the media statement published on Jan 2 because “the consultation process wasn’t followed with due diligence.”
“We cannot reject any developmental activities on Wampar land if and unless our government listens to our requests to meet and discuss pressing human and land issues to establish common understanding,” he said.
Ahi president Malcolm Kalo told Gary to ensure Wampar people stood united for what was appropriate for the people’s benefit into the future.