Local businesses expresses frustration

 THE Indigenous Small Business Group in Wewak and citizens of East Sepik are frustrated over Asians taking over small businesses in the town.

The group organised a peaceful protest last week which failed short of reach the main shopping centre in Wewak because they were late in notifying police.

Acting provincial police commander, Inspector James Baugen said the protestors were stopped at the Pora Oval where they peacefully raised their concerns for authorities in Wewak to address. “It was not like the Madang one,” Baugen said. 

“Police were there and we control everything, making sure they did not reach the town and cause trouble.”

Among the list of points on the petition, the protestors wanted explanation on the use of freezer at the Wewak Jetty, construction of supermarket outside the main market and the fast food outlet at the main market area.

Another crowd swelled up in town last Thursday complaining about two Asian shops opening liquor outlets in the heart of Wewak but they were sent home by authorities.

A number of prominent people in Wewak said they were not happy with the Asians coming in numbers and taking over small businesses from the indigenous people.

Wewak town mayor Charles Malenki could not be reached for comments last Thursday but The National understands that fast food outlet and supermarket at the main market area were approved by the Wewak Urban Council.