In a fallen city, locals must rise

I HAVE lived in Port Moresby ever since I came to start my life at university.
And now, I am married with children (all born in Port Moresby).
I have made my life – university student, medical student, rugby league player (North UPNG, Mioks UPNG, Medics UPNG, Tarangau, Vipers, Southern Zone, Lakatoi, President XIII and Kumuls), married, resident medical doctor, post-graduate training registrar, specialist medical doctor, medical school honorary lecturer, in rugby league administration and in National Doctors Association Executive.
I know the history of Port Moresby, PNG colonial history, the Motuan history, Motu-Koitabu and Koiari history very well.
And, the history of rest of Papua New Guinea, it’s cultures and its place in history.
In Port Moresby, during the colonial administration, most workers were Motuans, Motu-Koitabuans, Koiari and from Gulf.
Plantation workers came from the former Southern Highlands and Central.
Few were from other provinces
Now, the city has become a multicultural city just like any city in the world.
Port Moresby is a global city now.
Soon, when the Southern Highlands-Gulf road connects Port Moresby, what will happen?
When the Trans-Niugini Highway connects Port Moresby, what will happen? When the Milne Bay-Port Moresby road connects, what will happen?
It is anticipated that in 10 years, 20-30 per cent of the country’s population will live in Port Moresby.
This will sink in when the road links happen.
In fact, it’s already happening.
Motuans, Motu-Koitabuans, and Central people, look after and take care of your land.
It is the only your asset for the future of your children, culture, history and your identity.
Do not give it away.
It is already happening.
There are so many people like me who will share a similar story like mine who are passionate about this city, it’s history, it’s culture, it’s people and its progress.
This is our city.
We love our city.
We live here.
And, Papua New Guineans living in Port Moresby or outside of Port Moresby have invested heavily in the city and contributed to the development of this city.
It will be impossible for them to forego their life here and their investments. What transpired between Sir John’s Guise Stadium and Vision City on Sunday is a result of supporters and candidates who don’t know the meaning and true value of a free, fair, fearless and accountable election process, and they do not understand the meaning of leadership.
What happened is a sad day in Port Moresby, and sad for what has transpired so far in the General Election 2022.

Dr James Naipao