Chiefs declare Ontong Java 'out of bound'
ONGTONG Java has been declared as a 'No Go Zone.'After numerous failed attempts pleading to the Government to help their people who are reportedly suffering from starvation, the chiefs and elders of the atoll declared the island 'out of bound' effective as of yesterday.
In a letter to the Solomon Star, chief of Luaniua community Ini Ngouma said as traditional leaders of the island they have exercised their authority since the Government has turned a blind eye on their people."As of today 26th July 2011 (yesterday), Ontong Java is out of bound to all Government services. "There will be no police, fisheries officials and ships allowed on the island," the letter warned.
Chief Ini also warned their Member of Parliament (MP) Martin Kealoe that if he attempts to send ships to the island it would be destroyed.He said for the safety and benefit of everyone concerned they should stay out of Ontong Java."I am issuing this warning to all appropriate offices that if you decide to send any officials or ships to these groups of islands without my approval, then the end result is your own will," chief Ini said."Enough is enough. We are suffering."
He said it has been three months and all their cries for help have fallen on deaf ears.Chief Ini said the Prime Minister, the Malaita provincial government, Ministry of Fisheries and the National Disaster Council (NDC) showed total ignorance and negligence to the situation on their Island.Chiefs on the island recently called on the Prime Minister to declare a state of emergency on the island.However, there was still no response from the Government.
It is understood schools have been closed as islanders have no money to pay for their children's school fees.
Lack of government services such as education, medical services and shipping are some of the contributing factors to the problem on the island, chief Ini said."We are tired of false promises and sweet talks from the Government and responsible authorities," chief Ini said.
The Solomon Star understands the islanders are also threatening to start harvesting beche-de-mer if the Government does not respond to their problems quickly.
Chief Ini said since the Government has neglected their requests they would take matter into their own hands and look for possible ways to help their people.Attempts to talk to the Ministry of Fisheries and MP for Malaita Outer Islands were unsuccessful yesterday.
By DOUGLAS MARAU
Wednesday, 27 July 2011
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