Parkop clears air on rangers, casuals

 GOVERNOR Powes Parkop has clarified concerns about the work of the city rangers and casual cleaners at the city markets and bus stops in the National Capital District.

He said casual cleaners were being contracted by the NCD Commission to conduct general cleaning of the Gerehu, Hohola, Gordon and Malaoro markets as well as the 4-Mile craft market and Foodland at 3-Mile.

“They are part of the NCDC Safe City project. These cleaning contractors are unemployed youths contracted by NCDC to maintain a clean environment at bus stops and markets in NCD,” Parkop told a media conference.

“The city rangers are specifically assigned to rid public places of betel nut vendors. 

“They have nothing to do with the city markets and bus stops within NCD.

“They are part of the ongoing cleaning programme to beautify public places in the city and their operations shall continue.”

Parkop said this also in relation to concerns over the death of a young man at the Gordon market on June 16. 

He was alleged to have been attacked at the market on June 12, taken to the Gerehu hospital and later was released but died at his brother’s residence at Gordon four days later.

“On behalf of commission, the board and staff of NCDC, I also wish to convey my sincere condolences to the family and relatives of the deceased,” he said.

Five suspects have arrested by police.