On Tuesday, 25-year-old Lomias Timothy, a first-time father, was all smiles after being gifted a brand-new wheelchair by Lae Police Boss, Chief Superintendent Chris Kunyanban.
Timothy had visited the Metropolitan Commander’s office that morning on the advice of his contacts. He was seeking a clearance from the Metsup to sell cigarettes in town following a recent ban on street vending by the City Authority.
Upon entering the office, Timothy was kindly approached by the Metsup’s Secretary. After listening to his situation, the Secretary introduced Timothy to the Metropolitan Commander.
The two greeted each other, and Lomias explained the reason for his visit.
“Boss, I am a street vendor at Eriku. Because of the ban in street vending, this is affecting my family and I because we survive from the sales of the cigarettes I sell,” said Lomias.
His biggest concern was providing for his wife and newborn baby.
“They are both still at the hospital. Our baby is in the nursery and my wife needs fruits to stay healthy for the baby and herself.
“The ban is affecting us because I cannot provide for my family as a father and a husband,” Lomias told the Metsup.
Listening attentively, Kunyanban confirmed that the city council had indeed stopped street selling, especially betelnut and cigarettes. He made it clear to Lomias that the police do not make the laws, but rather help to enforce them, and advised him to see the City Council regarding his concerns.
“We had a meeting yesterday. The Lae City Council has stopped people from selling betelnut and smoke on the streets, even cooked food. But there are certain areas we’ve allowed people to sell, including China Town and the DCA Market,” said Kunyanban.
“If you agree, we can help you find a space where you can sell your cigarettes, either at the DCA Market or at China Town,” Kunyanban added.
The young father was relieved that his concerns were addressed and that he now had options to continue earning a living for his small family. However, a major challenge remained regarding his mobility, as the designated selling areas are far from where he resides.
Realizing Lomias’ immediate need, the Police Boss generously told Lomias to wait in the office while he went out to purchase a new wheelchair for him.
“Here is a K100 for you to assist your wife with fruits. You sit here with my Secretary and wait. I will be back with your wheelchair,” said Kunyanban.
The Police Boss drove to the nearest City Pharmacy in town and returned with a brand-new wheelchair costing nearly K1,500. He called Lomias downstairs and handed over the gift. An emotional Lomias stated that he had always hoped to own a new wheelchair after his previous one, received ten years ago, broke down.
Lomias Timothy originates from Masama, a village in Morobe’s Wau-Waria District, and is the fifth-born in a family of six. He was just 10 years old when he lost both of his legs in 2010 during an accidental World War II bomb explosion in Wau. He currently resides in Lae with his partner, who gave birth to a baby girl nearly two weeks ago.
Overwhelmed with joy and comfort, Lomias thanked the Police Boss and excitedly wheeled himself out of the police station.
Meanwhile, Lae Metropolitan Commander Chief Superintendent Chris Kunyanban stated that authorities responsible for making laws should always consider people living with special needs.
He said factors concerning their mobility and logistical infrastructure must be prioritized, adding that many individuals with disabilities have been missing out on developments that are tied to their basic rights.
“They are citizens of this country and they have the same right as every other citizen.”