Sode and Mekere doing a fine job for Western

 The PNGSDP is doing fine so far under the leadership of David Sode and Sir Mekere Morauta.

Under their leadership, the country and Western have benefited a lot in terms of infrastructural development. 

Many Papua New Guineans see Sode as a visionary and a determined leader who has the heart for this country’s development and contributes tirelessly under various capacities as former IRC commissioner and CEO of PNGSDP.

 However, it is surprising to read about the government’s intention to take ownership of PNGSDP. 

What are the government’s motives for the move? 

The government must clearly state its new strategies on how it would help the people of Western if it thinks that the current PNGSDP management is not doing enough. 

As far as the country and particularly the people of Western are concerned, the current management should be acknowledged and allowed to continue the good work they are doing. 

If PNGSDP is politicised, the kind of services provided by the current management will drop significantly. 

Meanwhile, the K2 billion to the people of Western, plus their annual K450 million share of the OK Tedi dividends as stated by the chairman will not transparently benefit the people judging from past experiences of the government’s handling of landowners’ fund. 

 All political leaders from Westerm and others must oppose this move as it is not in the best interests of the ordinary and affected people of Western. I hope the prime minister will reconsider his decision. 

DK, Via email