People ofthe Mekeo Kuni LLG inthe Kairuku-Hiri District have presented a proposal to NCD Governor Powes Parkop to look for ther alternatives tothe buai ban.
Governor Haoda and Parkop madethe two hour journey to Aipeana village yesterday to addressthe buai ban with Mekeo villagers.
They were joined by Governor Kavo who travelled fromthe Gulf Province.
Governor Parkop receivedthe proposal in Aipeana Village in front of Central Governor Kila Haoda, and Gulf Governor Havila Kavo.
The presence ofthe three Governors demonstratedthe seriousness of howthe Governors decision could impact buai growers and sellers from Kairuku District and Gulf Province.
Asthey madetheir way tothe chief’s platform, locals held up banners protesting againstthe buai ban which will come into force next Tuesday, with some even suggesting a mover to selling marijuana in place of buai.
Local leader, Paul Aisa informed Governor Parkop that betel nut forms up a significant historical and cultural part oftheir society and that it has also become a substantial income earner for the Mekeo Kuni people.
They addedthe new buai selling location is risky for them.
Theythen presented a proposal to Governor Parkop for alternatives rther than a ban.
Governor Parkop assuredthem that he did not blamethe Mekeo Kuni or Gulf people for the unclean image ofthe city. He said it is a problem amongst city dwellers.
He said ample time had been given to residents of Port Moresby to changetheir selling and chewing habits but to no avail. He says he will look intothe proposal.
Governor Haoda said he will support his people intheir plight and will work closely withthe Governor Parkop.
ther issues also raised inthe proposal includethe constant harassment of buai sellers, and fixing of buai prices.
Governor Parkop’says he will givethe people of Mekeo Kuni an answer on Monday.
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