New lands board reminded of key role

By HELEN TARAWA
THE Lands and Physical Planning Department has a new national lands board which was sworn in on Friday.
Except for chairman Sam Wange, all six members are new, including a councillor for Kilakila village who represents the Southern region.
Minister for Lands and Physical Planning Justin Tkatchenko said it had been almost six months and the board had gone through a proper test, police and health clearance under the new laws of the Department of Personnel Management on the appointment of the board.
“This board has a lot of work to do, a lot of outstanding issues that the board has to go through over the next six months,” he said.
“It hasn’t been operating for over a year in a proper capacity and we are still going through the appeals process on some of the issues that the board had deliberated on in the past.
“Members, you play a very important role.
“You will be making critical, important and sensitive decisions for the land in our country.
“Decisions that will upset some and others will celebrate, but the main aim and objective is to get it right and do it properly.
“For the first time on the board, we have a Motu-Koitabuan representative, Arutu Bake councillor for Kilakila representing the Southern region.”
Tkatchenko said Wange was permanently appointed. Previously, he was acting and with his experience and knowledge, he will be able to help others.
The deputy chairman is Godfrey Seeto, a third-generation Papua New Guinean-Chinese experienced in real estate development, construction and insurance.
“He has a wealth of experience being on many boards, including Air Niugini and PNG Sports Foundation,” Tkatchenko said.
“The other two members offer their experience in their own background from surveying to business and other important aspects as well.
“We’ve got a brand new team, and new beginning for the department.
“The department will work closely with the board to ensure they make the right information and documentation to make decisions without fear and favour.”
Wange said he was happy to be chairman.
Bake said it was an honour to be on the board.
Seeto is director of Kuila Insurance and has properties around Port Moresby, Lae and Kokopo.
Other members are Skerry Palangat, representing the New Guinea Islands, Gordon Manub (Mamose) and Kapen Kipakali (Highlands).