HIRI-KOIARI MP BACKS VAGRANCY ACT

CAPTION: Hiri Koiari MP, Keith Iduhu

BY NIGEL MADO

AFTER the controversial Vagrancy Act was passed, many MP’s remained silent regarding the social impact of the newly introduced legislation that would seek to enhance safety in urban centres around the country.

Member for Hiri-Koiari and Deputy Opposition Leader, Keith Iduhu has spoken out, stating that his vote in favour of the act would be a “band aid” solution to a festering issue after years of neglect.

Yesterday, the Deputy opposition leader took to social media to outline his reasons, adding that leadership requires long-term planning that will look to balance urban order with rural opportunity.

Iduhu highlighted 3 key points that the Government could identify as avenues in which they could use to curb illegal rural to urban resettlement, these include forgoing the idea of squatter rights and introducing lawful housing and restoring order to the Welfare System.

He stated that giving away land in urban centres after being occupied informally sets a dangerous precedent, undermining the foundation of property rights, offering a structured legal pathway to dignity.

He called on the government to consider making Planned Allotments which are affordable, properly planned residential plots with access to water, power, and sanitation.

Adding that these plots should be administered by a transparent body, specifically for the most vulnerable citizens who are working and contributing to the city both formally and informally, but cannot afford the current market.

Implying that this could lead to Earned Ownership, with access to these plots and government-subsidised utilities must be paid for moving away from “Free Handout” culture