Innocent Port Moresby residents have been without water supply for at least 14 hours today (Tuesday, 3rd of October). This comes after the main supply into the city was shut down by Koiari Landowners.
Angry landowners locked gates into the main entrance of the Hydropower Station at Rouna 2, and put out a massive banner that read, “No Negotiation, Pay Our K15 million and we release Water & Power”.
Their grievance is due to outstanding royalty payments. They claim the government promised to pay 18 days ago but is yet to do so.
Hiri-Koiari MP, Keith Iduhu said a day before the 48th PNG Independence, the landowners made their initial demand for their outstanding payment, and if unaddressed, they threatened to shut water and power to the city.
“As a show of good faith, the landowners agreed not to shutdown the Rouna 2 Hydropower Station. With the hope that their issue will be resolved. Immediately after I met with the landowners, I brought it to the attention of our Government. Particularly the Prime Minister and Treasurer,” said Iduhu.
During the day today, PNG Power officers went to the site to negotiate with the landowners. They refused to talk.
“I resonate with the frustrations of our landowners. As it is simply not good enough that their payment has not been fulfilled over the years, and just recently,” said Iduhu.
Meanwhile in Parliament today, Prime Minister James Marape said while the Government is taking their concerns seriously the Koiari landowners must clarify the recipient(s) of the initial K5 million disbursement.
In demonstrating this commitment, Marape announced the immediate release of K5 million from the Treasury.
Marape highlighted the need for the Treasury and Finance departments, to meticulously assess the remaining K10 million claim, before disbursing the funds.
This cautious approach stems from past instances, where funds were distributed amongst Koiari landowners, but only a selected few benefited, leaving the majority without compensation.
Marape made an additional announcement of a new structure. Where Koiari Landowners will become 20 percent beneficiaries of water resources from their land. This includes PNG Water assuming a 60 percent stake. Whilst Central and National Capital District governments will each hold a 10 percent stake.
Prime Minister Marape underscored that this innovative approach represents a significant departure from previous practices. As it is aimed at ensuring a more equitable distribution of resources among the Koiari landowners.
Meanwhile, the steps taken by landowners to address the temporary shut down of water supply and electricity services are outlined by the local MP. They include:
- A letter to Prime Minister James Marape has been drafted. Calling for the Government to fulfill their promise and commitment to the landowners.
- Constant communication with local leaders to ensure the protest remains peaceful and cordial.
- Follow up with Treasurer on the status of their payment, and a realistic timeframe of when they can make payment.
- Drafting new methods for landowner payment for the future.