Landowners urged to consult govt

EAST New Britain administrator Wilson Matawa wants landowners in the province to consult the government before entering into deals with developers.
Matawa said this during a meeting with stakeholders at Vunapalandi Two in the Inland Baining local-level government area of Gazelle district on Friday to address grieving members of the community over an arson incident.
Disgruntled members of the community had earlier set fire to machines belonging to an agricultural company that had been clearing the area for palm oil.
“You have to follow proper government processes,” Matawa said.
“You have to see our officers at the LLG, district and province to help you.
“You have to consult our officers so that we can vet this process and advise you people.
“We do not charge for the help we give.”
Matawa said it was a concern for the administration when landowners and blockholders entered into deals with developers and later ran to the government for help when problems arose.