Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has intervened in the eviction situation affecting residents of Wildlife and nearby areas in Port Moresby, calling for an immediate humanitarian stay while the Government works on practical and long-term solutions.
Speaking at a press conference today, Prime Minister Marape said a high-level meeting involving relevant State agencies, led by the Chief Secretary, had reviewed the matter and engaged directly with the developer.
The Prime Minister acknowledged that the developer holds valid land titles issued in 2012 and 2013, and has secured court orders since 2018 affirming their legal right to proceed with development.
“This is not a straightforward issue,” Prime Minister Marape said. “The developer has lawful titles and court-sanctioned orders. However, as a Government, we must balance the rule of law with our humanitarian responsibility to our people.”
Humanitarian Stay Requested
Prime Minister Marape confirmed that the Government has formally requested the developer to grant a temporary stay of eviction on humanitarian grounds.
“We have appealed to the developer to pause any immediate eviction while we work on alternative arrangements for our people,” he said.
Land Swap Proposal Offered
As part of immediate negotiations, the Government has proposed to allocate alternative land of equivalent size elsewhere in the city to the developer.“This is a local developer with a proven track record of delivering housing. We want to work in partnership to achieve a balanced outcome.”
“We have offered a practical solution — the State will identify and allocate equivalent land for the developer to continue their investment,” Prime Minister Marape said.
Resident Identification And Planned Settlement
Prime Minister Marape said the Government will now work with the National Capital District Commission and relevant agencies to properly identify and register all affected residents.
“We will ensure those living in these areas are properly identified and documented. Those occupying road corridors, utility lines, or unsafe areas will be relocated in an orderly manner,” he said.
He added that medium- to long-term plans include converting informal settlements into properly planned suburbs with essential services and legal recognition.
Law And Order Must Be Maintained
Prime Minister Marape emphasised that while Government is working on immediate and long-term solutions for residents of Wildlife and Erima, those living in the affected areas must continue to uphold law and order.
He noted that concerns have been raised by residents of Kennedy Estate about increasing lawlessness spilling into surrounding communities, contributing to the urgency for developers to proceed with evictions.
“I appeal to all residents to maintain lawful conduct as Government works to put in place fair and lasting solutions,” Prime Minister Marape said.
Call For Orderly Urban Development
The Prime Minister stressed that unplanned settlements contribute to law and order issues and undermine the development of a modern capital city.
“We cannot allow unregulated settlements to grow in ways that create disorder and affect established communities,” he said.
“Our goal is to build a modern, liveable city where all Papua New Guineans can live in dignity, safety, and order.”
Warning Against Illegal Settlement
Prime Minister Marape urged citizens not to occupy land without proper legal title.
“Do not settle on land that is not legally yours,” he said.
“Do not build based on informal arrangements. Wait for proper processes. Government is working to make land more accessible and properly titled.”
Land Access And Housing Programme
He outlined the Government’s broader land reform agenda, which prioritises:
• Allocation of land to formally employed citizens
• Distribution of titled land to small and medium enterprises that are tax-compliant
• Expansion of planned urban housing areas across the country
“This is a long-term programme, but it is necessary to ensure our people are properly housed with secure land ownership,” Prime Minister Marape said.
Commitment To Resolution
Prime Minister Marape said he expects a response from the developer following the Government’s request for a stay and expressed confidence in a cooperative outcome.
“This issue has roots going back to 2012, with court processes since 2018. These are legacy issues we must now resolve responsibly,” he said.
“I am confident that through goodwill and cooperation, we will find a solution that respects both the law and the welfare of our people.”