PORT MORESBY – Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has called for an immediate slowdown of eviction
exercises currently taking place in parts of the National Capital District, urging all parties involved to act with
compassion and responsibility while Government works towards long-term solutions.
Prime Minister Marape said he had been advised of ongoing evictions being carried out under court orders
and appealed to those holding such orders to exercise restraint.
“I respectfully ask all those in possession of court orders for eviction to slow down the process. Let us allow
both the National Government and the NCD authorities the time and space to find proper, humane, and
lasting solutions for our people,” the Prime Minister said.
He acknowledged that while many informal settlers may not have legal title to the land they occupy, their
presence reflects broader socio-economic challenges, including rural-urban migration and the search for
better opportunities.
“Many of our people have come into the city in pursuit of a better life. While some settlements may have
been established outside formal legal processes, we must approach this issue from a humanitarian
perspective,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape emphasised that the Government had not been adequately informed of some of the
ongoing eviction exercises and reiterated the need for coordinated action.
“We need a structured and coordinated approach. Government must be given the opportunity to intervene,
assess, and facilitate proper settlement arrangements, including relocation where necessary, with dignity and
planning,” he said.
He further pointed to previous cases, including evictions at Garden Hills, where land remained undeveloped
after residents were removed, raising concerns about the broader impact of such actions.
“In some cases, people have been evicted but the land has not been developed. This raises important
questions about timing, planning, and responsibility. Land will not run away — but people’s lives are directly
affected,” the Prime Minister stated.
The Prime Minister also indicated that landowners and developers involved in such evictions may be required
to present clear development plans to Government.“Those holding land titles will be asked to present their development plans as soon as possible. Government is
prepared to work with landowners to ensure that development proceeds responsibly, while also ensuring that
affected communities are properly relocated,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape stressed that the Government’s priority is to balance lawful land ownership with the
welfare of citizens.
“We must manage urban development in a way that protects both legal rights and human dignity. We
cannot allow our people to be displaced abruptly without proper alternatives in place,” he said.
He confirmed that formal communication would be issued to the Police Commissioner, with copies to the
NCD Governor, to ensure enforcement actions are aligned with the Government’s humanitarian approach.
“Our message is clear — slow down the evictions, allow Government to step in, and let us work together to
find orderly, fair, and lasting solutions for all parties involved,” Prime Minister Marape said.