MEMBER for Moresby South, Hon. Justin Tkatchenko, has vowed to stand by the people of Moresby South to protect their homes.
This follows the issuance of a 21-day eviction notice to the Lower Talai community in Badili by police yesterday.
While serving the notice, Badili Police Station Commander Larry Andrew explained that the police were only enforcers of the law.
“We are here to enforce the law. We understand your situation as we, too, have families, but it is our duty to enforce the law,” he said. Andrew confirmed that the eviction would proceed after the 21-day period,” Andrew said.
The land in question, Section 120 Allotment 48, Granville, National Capital District, has reportedly been acquired by a local businesswoman. However, Tkatchenko claims the land title was obtained illegally and is taking the matter to court.
“This eviction will impact 300 homes and the lives of nearly 1,000 people who have lived here for over four generations,” Tkatchenko said.
“This is their home. Many left their villages to come here and contribute to building this country, working in government offices. Over the years, Port Moresby has become their home. Talai is their home. They’ve raised their children here, and some even have grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
“We cannot allow one person’s interests to continue displacing our people from their homes.”
Tkatchenko assured the Lower Talai community that he is working with his lawyers to obtain a stay order and will fight alongside them to protect their homes.
“My people’s lives and their homes are more important than one person’s self-interest or business interests,” he said.
