Locals condemn Semri over assault on MP

A GROUP of people in Middle Ramu has condemned the action of their MP Ben Semri who fought with Sumkar MP Ken Fairweather outside Parliament last week.
Kairong-Kovon villagers and their leader James John Kias from Simbai turned up at The National’s Lae office to voice their concern over the incident.
“Being an MP, Semri should debate critically to address issues affecting livelihoods of Middle Ramu people rather than physically and verbally assaulting other MPs in Parliament,” Kias said.
“His (Semri’s) attitude is a national disgrace. It undermines his own leadership quality and is a shame to us, tarnishing our electorate’s name.
“Semri owes a public apology to our neighbouring Sumkar people, Madang and the country.”
Kias said Semri should debate about the two impact projects including a K20 million ring road, launched in the presence of Sir Peter Barter and Madang regional MP Sir Arnold Amet in 2008 to connect Josephstahl to Middle Ramu, Bogia and Sogeram.
“And he should debate on the national highway from Baiyer, in Mt Hagen, to Simbai connecting Transgogol.
“Even the issue of Ramu Block 1 Timber Semri should debate this properly because the permit is within his electorate.
“How much has Semri delivered to us people of Simbai?
“We are yet to benefit from proper roads to bring cash crops to markets.
“Mothers wait to benefit from better health services and education for our children,” Kias said.
He said such an attitude did not reflect the quality and calibre of a true leader dedicated to serving people.