Clans refuse to sign agreement

SOME clans of the Wafi-Golpu project impact area and those in Ahi and Salamaua local level governments (LLGs) refused to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Morobe Governor Ginson Saonu on Monday.
The clans said they would not sign any agreement until they knew its details.
The registered incorporated land groups (ILGs) who refused to sign the MoU said they received information about the signing late and needed time to consult their members and to understand the contents before signing.
“Butibam is not far and you should let us know,” Butibam council of chiefs spokesman Geob Morris told Saonu. “Our LLG president was also not consulted and we are not happy about this.
“Otherwise, we agree and support you (Saonu) with the steps you are taking.”
Asini leaders of Salamaua, who also attended the signing, said they wanted an open forum in the villages to know the terms and conditions of the MoU first.
“We salute the governor for coming up with the idea but we have village elders who must see and decide before we can sign,” they said.
Chairman of Veyangabu ILG in Gurako village said they received late notice on the MoU signing and were not aware of its contents.
Saonu also said he would not sign the MoU as some ILGs had not signed yet.
“I will wait until everyone signs and then I will sign off on it,” he said.
“You mandated me to lead you and make decisions for the best of everyone and I’m doing it.
“Those who have not signed, you have the right to do that.
“Let’s cooperate, work together for a brighter future for all.
“Take it easy, do it right, right from the beginning.
“We must fix what God gave them in accordance with what he wants for them.
“A good economy will flourish when people are happy and we are slowly taking back what’s ours.”