Group queries market facility

By JASON GIMA WURI

A GROUP of protesters comprising mainly women, youths and children yesterday confronted NCD Governor Powes Parkop as he was about to open the new Lareva market at Hohola 2, The National reports.

The protesters said the new site did not have any water and toilet facilities, fuelling threats of cholera and other diseases.

They also raised concerns on petty crimes and other illegal activities including the safety of women and girls using and visiting the market.

Hohola community chairman Abraham Araupe said a petition outlining these concerns were given to Parkop six months ago but to no avail.

“The market is now sitting right in the middle of our recreational area.

“There is no proper licencing from the NCD lands board and the market was built without proper facilities, planning and health inspections being carried out,” Araupe said.

Community leaders yesterday threatened to take out a court injunction against Parkop and NCDC.

However, Parkop told the protesters that the market had to be moved for the city’s benefit.

“We cannot listen to only one part of a group of people but, instead, we have to get everyone’s views - those from the Highlands, the Papuans, New Guinea Islands and Momase.

“This market does not belong to the Hagens or the Keremas only. It belongs to all of us in the city; it will improve our people’s lives with the vegetables and betelnuts sold here,” Parkop said.

“I understand and take into account your concerns for security, rubbish and health hazards.

“New toilets and water facilities will be in place immediately in the coming weeks.”

He also challenged the community to organise itself and collect taxes from the vendors to pay for security and the upkeep of the market.

The NCD governor also thanked Digicel and BSP for providing 300 and 100 beach umbrellas respectively for distribution to the market vendors.