Win brings peace, unites clans: Leader

 A community leader in Hela has commended the Wigmen for being the champion team in this year’s semi-professional competition as the game has brought peace in the province.

James Debela, a leader in the Hiyapuga local level government, Hela, said the rugby league grand final win has brought peace and unity in the Hela province after many years of tribal differences.

He said the Hela people never expected their team to achieve what they did – most, including the community leaders were busy involved  in resolving law and order issues.

“But to our surprise, you all made the Hela population surprised by being the finalist and eventually winning the cup – regardless of the tribal clans.

“This is a good indication of  lasting peace in our province.

“Law and order has being a major problem here despite provincial authorities  working tirelessly  to restore  the peace with the little  resources available,” Debela said.

He said the tireless effort and commitment of the players and the management and officials have brought the team into the finals making the people proud enough to leave their tribal differences behind.

“It is indeed an honour for the people. 

“The grand final has brought peace and unity among the people. 

“Despite their differences they stood shoulder to shoulder to support and cheer for their team,” he said.

Debela commended Hela Governor Anderson Agiru for being instrumental in the code within the province and challenged the other provincial MPs to support.

He said supporters travelled from as far as the Strickland Gorge in Koroba-Kopiago and Mt Bosavi in Komo-Magarima, to convene on the Lae Rugby league ground to lend their support.

“Our people are good-natured.

“When they see positive things, they tend to embrace and make amends for past wrongs.

“The grand final win is one example of such positives,” he said.

He urged the provincial and local community leaders to promote and develop sports for the betterment of the local communities.