Set up authority

The National Letters

INTER-Government Relations Minister Pila Niningi taking control of the resettlement exercise for Manam (Madang) and Kadovar (East Sepik) is commendable.
The Department of Inter-Government Relations have agencies responsible for implementing departmental plans and policies related to disaster.
But in some cases, these agencies are slow to respond.
Funding is a major problem.
Resettlement exercises have been a waste of time and effort because of the lack of funding support and alleged corrupt practices.
Manam and Kadovar people anticipate to see the new minister help them end this in-house refugee issue which they have been victims for many years.
The minister should advocate for a better solution.
I’ve been writing on the Kadovar issue since the start of the volcano in 2018.
I’m very thankful that the East Sepik government under the leadership of Governor Allan Bird has helped in the evacuation and relocation period.
Kevin Isifu and his Wewak district development authority (DDA) did well to continuously deal with this tough situation.
When will the Kadovar Restoration Authority be setup and reach the National Executive Council for approval?
Without this legal representation the Kadovar people will remain as prisoners at Dandan care centre.
There has been no assurance given by the East Sepik government or Wewak DDA in regards to setting up the Kadovar Restoration Authority.
This would be a legal body that will represent the people of Kadovar to link with the Department of Inter-Government Relations, East Sepik government and Wewak DDA to implement resettlement programmes.
We learned from issues the Manam Islanders faced with Bogia landowners.
Prolonged delays would only result in social disorder in the care centres and this is happening right now at Dandan care centre.
The East Sepik government and Wewak DDA should inform the minister and the people of Kadovar on the latest progress of the setting up of this important body.
We need to fast-track the process to help our people from this sufferings.

Hanam Bill Sandu,
Wewak Island LLG