We need to revise and review land
legislations adopted from pre-colonial days to respond with our people’s
aspiration today, says Esa ‘ala MP and Civil Aviation Minister Davis Steven.
Steven said the current land
legislations especially on freehold lease was pre-colonial and was adopted by
the House of Assembly before and immediately after the independence of Papua
New Guinea.
“These laws are a travesty of
justice an error of law, a paradox that ought to be corrected,” he said.
The current legal regime that was
adopted by PNG from its colonial rulers is still being used today which has
brought about problems of ownership on Woodlark and Conflicts islands in Milne
Bay.
He said PM O’Neill was the only top
politician in the history of the country to have taken the bold initiative to
tackle the issue head on, with the success in reverting and granting ownership
of Woodlark Island back to the traditional owners.
“The problem must not be deferred
further, it must be solved during our time so as not to pass to future
generations,” he said.
“It takes will power and the
necessary bureaucratic process to do it.”
Steven said the relevant state
agencies such as the Lands Department, Department of Attorney General (DJAG)
and others should guide the cabinet (NEC) in taking the decision necessary
required for the interest of the people of PNG.
He said any call by cabinet to
pass or amend land legislations as a remedy in respect to freehold-lease and
the Conflict groups of island would be supported by him as the member of Esa’
ala.
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