We were let down, say rioters

By SALLY TIWARI
GROUP 1360 servicemen spokesman Godfrey Aisi said yesterday they were frustrated because their claims had already been approved by the
former chief secretary Margret Elias and Peter O’Neill when he was the finance minister last year.
He said the delay in payment was because Manasupe Zurenuoc was trying to review their claims which was a waste of resource and time as they had waited for it for a long time.
“We have met all the requirements under the directions given by O’Neill last year,” Aisi said.
Among their demands was that the NEC appoint a new task force headed by Central Agency Coordinating Committee (CACC) director, Alfred Wapira because he had dealt with their case last year.
Philemon said he would take their grievances to O’Neill when he arrived back from Australia.
“I can guarantee you that I will take ownership of your grievances and will get back to you in a week’s time,”
he said.
The ex-servicemen’s claims are as per the agreement signed seven of the nine provisions as part of their retirement benefit packages had been met.
They were now awaiting the last two, which was the housing scheme arrangements of K50,000 and the hardship allowance of K10,000.