Waiting for too long

I SUPPORT letter writer Hunters Tok Stret B P’s concern that appeared in this column on May 15, 2019 “Call to take decisive action”, following the States inability to settle court order claims.
How long would these former members of the old political system of government, whom were displaced following the reforms wait before they are paid their rightful entitlements?
These plaintiffs have been waiting long before this matter was brought before the court in 2008.
The National Court Orders of 2010 and subsequently the 2017 Orders following the States failed Supreme Court appeals and review applications is explicit on this matter.
Even the NEC decision No.43/2018 further supports the court orders in its directives for relevant State financial institutions to execute these claims for payment.
The continuous failures by the State Solicitor’s Office to endorse court order claims and the unnecessary delays by some corrupt officials of both the Treasury and Finance departments in implementing lawful instructions had been tormentful and nerve wrecking for these claimants whom have been needlessly forced to endure this sufferings.
And these claimants, like my grandfather, would all be our elderly fathers or grand fathers whom have tirelessly sacrificed for the development of our communities by working in some of the most remote corners of this country.
Some have passed on while waiting.
These lengthy delays then frustrate claimants whom in despair succumb to their shellfish suckers whims in agreeing to a cut of ten percent plus fees as commissions before claims would be fast-tracked for payment.
What does the law demands on people who continuously defy court orders and executive directions?
Penalties should be clearly defined and meted out so as to control avenues for corruption that has snowballed out of proportion in this country.
Enforcement of harsher penalties to corrupt officials would be a worthy deterrent to those who strive to enrich themselves at the expense of the poor majority.
Meanwhile, the tormented plaintiffs are still waiting in silence through this ordeal of Justice delayed is Justice denied.
Next lies the land without justice.

De’Biem O. Dibus
Maclay Bay View, Madang