The Central Provincial Government (CPA) has a voice in the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) Board.

That is following the swearing-in of its acting administrator Francis Koaba today.

SWEARING-IN OF NCDC BOARD MEMBER

Koaba signed and took oath today before Tracy Ganai at the City Hall Annex in Port Moresby. Ganai is the Waigani Committal Court Magistrate.

Moresby North-East MP, John Kaupa, City Manager Bernard Kipit, other board members and others were present to witness the occasion. NCD Governor Powes Parkop relayed his apology.

Welcoming him on board, Governor Parkop said in his message: “We value the contribution of Koaba’s predecessors and look forward to having a similar engagement with him too.We want to have a constructive relationship with the province and its leaders. Let’s not allow the recent tussles to limit the opportunity we have for a greater future.”

QUORUM AT NCDC BOARD

Mr Kipit welcomed the new commissioner. He relayed Governor Parkop said he was happy Koaba’s inclusion would not only boost the quorum.

Further, he said it would also form an important voice that would contribute meaningfully in the decision making process.

Since the passing of late Sir Mekere Morauta, Mr Kipit said  lack of quorum affected board meetings. Sir Mekere was a commissioner and member for Moresby North-West.

Furthermore, he said the Central and Gulf provinces were critical to the existence of NCD. Thus, they are part of the equation for the transformation of the city, he said.

MORESBY NORTH-EAST MEMBER ON CENTRAL CITY

Commissioner Kaupa said the Central Province was an integral part of the city.

Additionally, he said the inclusion of Koaba to the board signified a new era.Kaupa is also the MP for Moresby North-East. Related news:https://pngsun.com/amp/2021/04/28/pay-from-govt-share-parkop/

He challenged his fellow Central parliamentarians to build their own city. Further, he said this would enable them to collect their own Goods and Services Tax (GST).

Kaupa called on them to embrace opportunities presented by the city to their advantage other than complaining over GST.

Mr Kaupa clarified the city belonged to the people of Papua New Guinea and the international community.

Commissioner Koaba said he would work with all stakeholders to realign the two provinces. That is, he said, for them to tap into opportunities present in the city.

He said he would further work with them to find mutual grounds. News on his appointment: https://postcourier.com.pg/new-central-administrator-appointed/