Sir Julius should focus efforts on New Ireland

IT was frustrating to see Sir Julius Chan revealing his intentions to become prime minister, if invited by coalition partners to form the government should he win the election.
As a New Irelander, I do not agree with this.
The people of Nama­tanai and New Ireland gave him the mandate over 30 years ago. 
Whatever he did as prime minister did not improve our situation.
In fact, the country has gone backwards in terms of service delivery and other developments.
I urge young and vi­brant leaders from other political parties not to join hands with those who already had the opportunity to lead this country.
Think of them as failed politicians and part of the many problems today.
Most of Sir Julius’
years in politics were spent on dealing with na­tional issues instead of serving the very people who voted for him to represent them in parliament.
After 30 years, Nama­tanai has bad roads and deteriorating schools, hos­pitals, aid posts, wharves, airstrips and brid­ges, and no incentives to encourage economic activities.
Conducting business in Namatanai town remains a dream for local entrepreneurs.
For those who do not know, this man is a strategist and knows how to structure his speeches to win the hearts of many.
However, there is no­thing to show for, especially when Namatanai is the only district with two gold mines in Lihir and Simberi.
Sir Julius lost his seat to Ephraim Apelis in 2002.
But Apelis brought his mattress and pillow with him into parliament and the people continued to suffer.
The people then re-elected  Sir Julius and he became New Ireland’s governor.
The better part of his political career has been spent on national issues.
Now, he must seriously think about his people in New Ireland and return what they have given him over 30 years ago.

Maris Tagu
 Lae