By DALCY LULUA
Despite the tensions and chaos that marred last week’s Highlands Day celebrations, the organizing committee has confirmed that Momase Day will still go ahead this coming weekend.
Grave concerns have been expressed about the relevance of regional cultural events in the aftermath of the Highlands Day celebrations, which resulted in street fights, injuries and damage to property.
However, NCD Governor Powes Parkop stressed that the 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations were important for the people and the country and would be held with highest level of security from now on.
“Momase Day will take place this week Saturday July 26, at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium,” he said.
“We have successfully held the Southern region, Islands region celebrations to high standards. We had a great Highlands Region celebration inside the stadium with 20,000 plus residents and visitors in attendance in the stadium.”
He said the commotion outside the stadium was regrettable and the NCDC would ensure it was not repeated.
“Momase Day will be held successfully to end the PNG story and then we go into August and September as one country, one people, one nation and one city marking this important milestone in our collective journey together. Celebrating 50 years and inspiring the future.”
Governor Parkop said he had spoken to Deputy Police Commissioner Donald Yamasombi, ACP Benjamin Turi and NCD Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab who have pledged to ensure the anniversary events proceeded with heightened security and zero tolerance to unruly behaviour as witnessed last Saturday evening.
“This will include the deployment of Mobile Squad Unit from McGregor if needed be. The SSD Commander at McGregor Police Barracks and I discussed these plans.
“This weekend’s event will be held at the same venue, with increased police presence and community volunteers on-site to help with crowd control,” Government Parkop said.