PNG PM Marape Vows to Tackle Corruption Following Landslide VoNC Win

 Lagaip Open MP Aimos Joseph Akem has urgently called on the National Government to intervene in the ongoing tribal conflict in the Porgera Valley, which has claimed 20 lives so far. Among the casualties are two employees of New Porgera Limited (NPL), following the escalation of violence that started earlier this week.

The conflict erupted when two factions of illegal miners clashed on Monday, leading to the deaths of two men and triggering widespread violence across the valley. Akem confirmed that schools, hospitals, aid posts, and other government services, including the BSP bank in Porgera, have all shut down due to fears of the ongoing tribal warfare.

Akem highlighted that the conflict is not confined to Porgera residents alone, but has also drawn in individuals from Lagaip district and Mulitaka Local-Level Government (LLG). He noted that the violence has spread throughout the Porgera Valley, severely disrupting daily life.

The MP reported that road networks and communications in the area have been cut off, and prices for goods and services have surged due to both the conflict and road reconstruction efforts in Mulitaka. The only operation unaffected is the Porgera Gold Mine, which remains functional under tight security.

Akem expressed concern about the lack of sufficient police and military presence in the valley. He noted that the few security personnel on the ground are focused on protecting the mine site and its main Special Mining Lease (SML) area, leaving other parts of the valley under the control of warlords.

“I call on the Government to declare a State of Emergency in the Porgera Valley immediately,” Akem said. He warned that if the government does not act swiftly, the future of the Porgera Gold Mine could be in jeopardy within weeks or months.

Akem also lamented the absence of leadership in the region following the death of Porgera leader Maso Karipe, leaving the area vulnerable to further unrest. While acknowledging his role as the leader of Lagaip, Akem stressed that he cannot manage the situation in Porgera without the government's intervention.

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