Community leader criticises betel nut ban

 By JOSEPH ANUT

UNEMPLOYED residents in Port Moresby will be the biggest losers from the betel nuts ban by the National Capital District Commission.

Today is the last day of the seven-day grace period to allow vendors to sell the last of their stock.

James Ivarature, a community leader from Tokarara, Moresby North West, warned there was risk of starvation because the unemployed were deprived of earning money to sustain their livelihood.

“The government will have 

its hands full with escalating law and order problems if these people are forced to abandon their trade and look for other alternatives,” he said. 

The Gulf man described the ban as: “By far the worst and most controversial decision in the history of NCDC, and during Governor Powes Parkop’s term in office as it abuses people’s rights and interferes with PNG cultures and traditions.

“From the start of the campaign, until the actual ban, it has been a one-man show by Parkop.  

“Where are the other commissioners of the NCDC?  What about the national leaders? What are their views on this?” he asked.

Ivarature said vendors were too quiet over the whole ban, which clearly indicated that the City of Port Moresby was being dictated by one person.

He said instead of totally banning betel nuts, NCDC could move the sale of betel nuts to designated areas on the fringes of the city. 

“It’s all about controlling the sale and abuse of betel nuts and maintaining strict policing methods. 

Why make life miserable for the people?”