Minister Billy Joseph Engages Lower Pleto Leaders on Development Priorities
By Staff Reporter
NIPA KUTUBU MP and Minister for Defence Hon. Dr Billy Joseph has reaffirmed his commitment to delivering key infrastructure and service developments in the Lower Nembi Pleto LLG following a high-level meeting with ward representatives on Palm Sunday.
Dr Joseph hosted leaders from all 12 wards of Lower Pleto LLG, led by LLG President Hon. Bill Kel, alongside Deputy President, CEO Camilus Wari, former MP Hon. Tombol Wari, and Senior Statesman and former Minister Chief Philemon Embel. The delegation also included ward councillors, educated elites, clan leaders, and youth representatives.
The meeting provided a platform for leaders to present their development priorities, with the sealing of the Pleto Loop Road identified as the top agenda.
Dr Joseph said discussions were productive and provided clear direction on the development aspirations of the people.
“It was an absolute honour to host the representatives of the 12 wards of Lower Pleto LLG. Hearing directly from them has given me a clear perspective of their development priorities and the way forward for Pleto,” Dr Joseph said.
He confirmed that work is progressing to commence sealing of the Pleto Loop Road from both ends.
“We have engaged China Railway to begin sealing from Parite through Waqa Mountain towards Embi, while the contractor already paid K20 million is expected to start from Semin/Seremins. We will push simultaneously to ensure progress is delivered without delay,” he said.
Dr Joseph added that leaders have unanimously backed the involvement of China Railway and assured there would be no interference with project implementation.
“I have full confidence in China Railway, which is already mobilised for the Poroma-Kutubu road project. The leaders have given their assurance of full cooperation to ensure smooth progress,” he said.
He further acknowledged the need to work in partnership with the Southern Highlands Provincial Government and national leadership to secure funding commitments for the Embel Highway and Pleto Loop Road.
The establishment of a main service centre for Pleto LLG was also highlighted as a key priority, with plans to include an LLG Chamber, police post, courthouse, and market facilities.
“We have tasked the LLG leadership to identify and allocate land for a central service hub that will bring essential government services closer to our people,” Dr Joseph said.
He noted that water supply and electricity development would follow once major road infrastructure is in place, while also reaffirming continued support for health and education infrastructure projects.
Leaders also called for strengthened support for peace mediation initiatives and increased participation in the Reserve Police Program to address law and order challenges in the area.
On leadership and governance, Dr Joseph stressed the importance of accountability and a shift away from traditional political practices.
“Blind support is a thing of the past. While tribal identity is part of who we are as Melanesians, it must not be used as a blind ticket to political power. Constructive dialogue and clear vision must guide our leadership,” he said.
He endorsed the concept of a “social contract” between leaders and citizens, as advocated by Chief Philemon Embel.
“We must build a new political culture based on accountability and mutual responsibility between leaders and our people. That is the future we are working towards,” he said.
Dr Joseph also expressed gratitude for the growing support across Pleto LLG, including from communities that had not previously supported him.
The meeting concluded on a unifying note, with Dr Joseph extending Easter blessings to the people.
“Together we can achieve meaningful development. May the love and peace of God be upon everyone during this Easter season,” he said.
Ends