Time to ban alcohol in Enga, Ipatas

IN the early 1990s, tribal fights are unheard of in Enga.
However, when Peter Ipatas took over as governor from Danley Tindiwi in 1996, the number of tribal fights has increased exponentially.
Innocent lives have been lost, properties worth millions of kina have been destroyed, our gardens destroyed  and the list goes on.
Alcohol is the main reason in the increase of tribal fights.
Ipatas was the man who introduced beer to be consumed and sold in the province after coming into power in 1996.
While Philip Kikala took a bold step in banning liquor in his Lagaip-Porgera electorate last year, Ipatas is unlikely to do so because he is more interested in collecting 25% proceeds from the sale of alcohol.
Kikala is concerned with the welfare of his people but Ipatas is more concerned with the 25% proceeds.
As an Engan, I can feel the pain when I see my fellow tribesmen dying and our communities in turmoil.
The main cause of the problems we are facing in Enga is liquor.
It does not bring any good to the people.
Instead, it is a curse.
If Ipatas is not willing to ban the sales of alcohol, then it shows the governor does not have a heart for his people.
I call on other relevant authorities, who have a heart for Engans, to hear our cries and impose a liquor ban in the province.

JN  Herra
Via email