By GEORGINA MICHAEL
Churches in Port Moresby have raised concerns about illegal settlers being evicted in large numbers in the city without proper relocation plans.
Chairman of the Body of Christ, Reverend Joseph Walters, said, “Most people that are being evicted including his church pastors, congregation members, students, vulnerable people, public servants and others reside within those areas of eviction are very much affected due to the inhuman action shown without proper resettlement plans.”
“And because of this people are now seeking refuge in churches, hence, as I’m speaking we have received reports of the victims of the eviction seeking refuge at our churches, and we are providing them with food and accommodation while majority are still roaming the streets of Port Moresby.”
The church leaders also claimed that authorities were inconsiderate with the timing of the two evictions that have occurred.
“Police were being inconsiderate with heavy tactics without due care and respect to the citizen’s lives which did amount to human rights violations,” Reverend Walters said.
Deputy chairman of the Body of Christ Church, Michael Wilson said: “The entire communities must not be evicted, misplaced or criminalized without being considerate of the citizens safety and security of the vulnerable people who are prone to, disease, harsher conditions, hunger and death.
“The evictions were done at the wrong timing, when it was the beginning of the year where many students live within those evicted areas to attend to schools. Hence, it resulted in thousands missing school and are roaming around the streets of Port Moresby.”