Stadium’s future worries Motuans

 By MOUA OMOA

MOTU-Koitabuans are concerned that the Government is moving too quickly to acquire Sir Hubert Murray Stadium, the landowners’ biggest asset.

Vabukori village leader Rahe Maraki Rau, who was deputy NCDC governor in 2002 and was instrumental in the transfer of ownership of the stadium to the Motu-Koita Assembly and its people, said they were worried about their future because the stadium would be transferred to the PNG Sports Foundation for development in preparation for the 2015 Pacific Games.

Motu-Koitabuans and the assembly use the venue for cultural, sports and religious activities.

“The Motu-Koita Assembly (previously known as the Motu-Koita Council) was initially located at Ela Beach but was moved to the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium and has since been operating from there.

“The stadium has been very useful to the assembly for its cultural, sports, religion and other related activities and sad to say it’s the only remaining asset and landmark of the Motu-Koita Assembly.”

Rau said it would be better if the Government waited until after the LLG elections before finding an amicable solution on the issue.

“I call on the relevant authorities and the Government to put the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium issue on hold until the Motu Koita Assembly elections are over and that an amicable solution be reached by elected members for a win-win situation for the State and MKA,” he said. 

“To forcefully take ownership of our only asset and venue for social, cultural and religious interaction would certainly mean the removal of an office, dignity and benefit which will be perceived as a great injustice.”