Landowning leaders must be proactive

LANDOWNING leaders Andy Hamaga, Eric Haroli, Martin Tindipu and John Kaloma claim that there is environment damage and water shortage in the PDL project area in Southern Highlands province (The National, Jan 16).
The fact is the creeks have always been dirty when there is rain because of loose soil from the construction work up at HCCP and the well pad roads being washed down.
The project developer has always been conscious of the environment and has in place stringent work processes to deal with such issues.
It is better for these Port Moresby-based “leaders” to go to the office at Kone and be briefed on what is happening so that they get a clearer insight on what is in place on roles, duties and obligations of the project developer.
The Para School was due to be re-opened until just recently when the Pajapaja clan of Hides 4 area said they did not want any school and did not want an educated community.
This makes one wonder if there is leadership in Hides-Komo which we claim to have.
Our leaders should ask the Pajapajas why Para School remains closed. 
Resettlement is another issue that needs clarification.
Initially, affected locals were given an opportunity by the project developer for their new homes to be built on preferred areas but they rejected this arrangement, instead they opted to take the money and run to Port Moresby to spend it.
Our “leaders” are at fault, not the project developer.
They should have a good working relationship with ExxonMobil to address outstanding issues amicably.
Better still, let us come down from our expensive hotel suites and be proactive by carrying out awareness on subjects ranging from personal hygiene to how to save our money and business and education opportunities.
“Leaders” should be working in partnership with the project developer.
 
Tindi Apa   
via email