The Motu Koita Assembly chairman Miria Ikupu blamed high rates of unemployment and poverty onthe lack of funding fromthe National Capital District Commission.
Mr. Ikupu said he is also insulted bythe actions of NCD Governor Powes Parkop and Moresby North West MP Michael Malabag for rolling out projects directly tothe people.
Chairman Miria Ikupu saidthe MP’smust consult and work withthe assembly.
Mr. Ikupu rebutted media statements made bythe MP’sthatthe assembly was abusing funds earmarked for major developmental projects overthe years.
He saidthe Motu Koita Assembly was created by an Act of Parliament in 2007 withthe mandate to governthe affairs and welfare ofthe Motu Koita people.
Replying tothe media statements, he saidthe two leader’s actions in bypassingthe Motu Koita Assembly and rolling out projects for the people is uncalled for.
Among much needed services in ten ofthe Motu Koitabu villages is water supply. Many villagers flock tothe city to fetch water and travel back home. This continues to date.
Recently Moresby North West MP and Health Minister Michael Malabag launched a project in Pari village.
The chairman admitted thatthere is poverty and high rate of unemployment inthese communities. He said infrastructure is anther problem. He blames NCDC for its lack of cooperation and funding commitment.
He saidthe assembly had been underpaid and since October 2012, funding ceased altogther.
NCD Governor Powes Parkop’said withthe year of implementation at hand, work will begin to equip and assistthe Motu Koita people get into small economic activities.
Mr. Parkop’said this should help people be self-reliant and alleviate poverty and high unemployment rate inthe villages.
Bernadette Efi, National EMTV News
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