Prime Minister and Member for Tari-Pori District, Hon. James Marape, has conducted the first District Development Authority (DDA) meeting for 2026 at the Hulukumaya Building in Tari.
The Prime Minister welcomed and congratulated all Council Presidents, including newly elected leaders and those who retained their seats following the 2025 Local Level Government elections. He acknowledged councillors and presidents for ensuring the elections in the Tari-Pori District were conducted peacefully.
Prime Minister Marape said the successful conduct of the elections had challenged long-held negative perceptions about the district.
“Previously, we experienced disturbances and conflicts that often led to the loss of lives and destruction of property,” he said. “However, this election has been peaceful, and that is something we must all be proud of.”
He commended the newly elected councillors and council presidents chosen to lead their people over the next five years. “I commend all the new councillors and the presidents you have elected to lead you over the next five years,” Prime Minister Marape said.
He also praised outgoing councillors and presidents for ensuring a smooth transition of leadership.
“The transition between outgoing leaders and newly elected leaders has been peaceful,” he said. “I commend you and encourage you to continue with this style of leadership.”
The Prime Minister welcomed the newly appointed women and church representatives to the Tari-Pori District DDA Board, acknowledging the important role they play in inclusive governance.
“We welcome you and value your contributions to the service of your people, your communities and the council ward you represent,” he said.
Addressing DDA members, Prime Minister Marape emphasised the importance of leadership built on unity, forgiveness and peace.
“This is our first meeting for the year, and as leaders, we must uphold the values of love and forgiveness and live in peace and harmony,” he said.
He urged councillors to work closely with their council presidents to maintain peace and resolve disputes at the community level.
“I urge you not to bring your problems into Tari town or onto other people,” he said. “Do not disrupt businesses and essential services. Resolve issues at the community level.”
Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed the DDA’s commitment to working closely with council presidents, women representatives and church representatives to strengthen development and stability across the district.
Following the meeting, the Prime Minister held separate discussions with both new and returning councillors, thanking them for their leadership during the election period.
He reminded them of their critical role as community leaders.
“You are the peacemakers and the voice of the government at the ward and village level,” he said. “I thank you and encourage you to continue your good work.”
Prime Minister Marape said the successful elections demonstrated that Tari-Pori District is capable of peace, stability and effective governance.
“Our elections in Tari-Pori District have been good and successful,” he said. “We must show others that Tari is not as bad as people think.”
He acknowledged that conflicts exist, as they do in other parts of the country, but said peace must remain the district’s highest priority.
“We are law-abiding citizens and good people,” he said.” Conflicts exist here as they do everywhere else, but peace must be our priority.”
The Prime Minister expressed appreciation to all councillors and council presidents — both outgoing and newly elected — for their service and dedication.
“I am humbled to be your national representative as the Member for Tari-Pori and your Prime Minister,” he said. “But you do most of the work in our communities.
“I thank all councillors and presidents — the newly elected and those who are outgoing — for your wonderful service over the years. Together, we serve Tari-Pori District and Hela Province.”