Landowners in Lorengau are questioning the awarding of the security contract for the Manus Asylum Processing Center to the Tasion Group of Companies.
A protest was staged on Thursday, seeking answers as to why a landowner company was not considered.
More specifically for the Chief Immigration Officer Solomon Kantha to explain why Tasion Group was preferred. They claim nepotism in the process of awarding the contract.
This has happened at the time when the Australian Government prepares to transfer the asylum facility to the Papua New Guinea Government.
Landowners say local Lorengau landowner company Paren Investment should have been awarded the contract. Many say for too long locals have become observers and want authorities to reconsider the decision.
The head of Tasion Group of Companies Sam Tasion who is in Manus, has responded, stating his company is a national firm and will provide jobs to locals.
He backed the awarding of the security contract stating PNG Immigration and Citizenship Authority invited Tasion Group to bid in April.
The Security Contract is currently held by Paladin who will cease its services today, November 30, 2019.
By Jack Lapauve – EM TV News, Port Moresby
