Lagatois to seek courts

By PARKER TAMBUA
NATIONAL Capital District Governor and Motu-Koita Lagatois patron Powes Parkop says the team will seek legal interpretation from the courts if their appeal for 2021 Digicel Cup season isn’t upheld.
The Lagatois’ initial bid was unsuccessful as Papua New Guinea National Rugby League Competition’s (PNGNRLC) constitution only allows one team per province.
Before officiating a trial match between the Port Moresby Vipers and Lagatois at Moresby South Stadium yesterday, Parkop said the Lagatois had submitted an appeal to PNGNRLC.
He said they were expecting a positive answer from PNGNRLC this week.
“The chairman of the Motu-Koita Assembly who’s my deputy, Dadi Toka Jr, has submitted an appeal,” Parkop said.
“The chairman (Toka) has met with (PNG Rugby Football League chairman) Sandis Tsaka.
“If they don’t approve the Lagatois’ bid then we will take it to the National Court and seek a legal interpretation.”
Parkop urged Motu-Koita people and the Port Moresby Vipers that they would do a campaign or protest against PNGNRLC’s decision if the Lagatois’ appeal was rejected.
He said the Motu-Koita people were the first in the country to play rugby league when it was introduced and that the bid had to be respected.
“Before other centres played rugby league, the Motu-Koita people were the first,” Parkop said.
“They were the first Kumuls who represented PNG and made us proud.
“We must give them that respect.
“The Lagatois must enter the Digicel Cup. I urge all the players of the Lagatois and the fans to stay put as we await a decision from PNGRFL and PNGNRLC.”