Roadblock on Holtekam Road Resolved, Land Payment Issue to be Addressed by Papuan Goverment

JAYAPURA, LELEMUKU.COM - The tense situation caused by a roadblock on Holtekam Highways in Muara Tami District, Jayapura City has finally come to an end as the local government has committed to finding a solution to the underlying issue. The roadblock was staged by the land heirs who were dissatisfied with the unresolved payment for certified land, which is currently being utilized as the Holtekam highway.

On Saturday, June 24, 2023, Terianus Merauje, the respected leader of the Merauje Tribe and one of the heirs of the late Markus Merauje, took the initiative to organize the roadblock as a means to draw attention to the ongoing problem. This action came as a follow-up to a similar roadblock that had taken place on March 20, 2023.

The land heirs had previously received assurances from the local government regarding the settlement of the land payment issue. However, the promises made remained unfulfilled, prompting the heirs to resort to the roadblock as a last resort. Terianus Merauje expressed disappointment and frustration over the lack of progress in resolving the payment for the certified land, which has imposed an ongoing burden of land taxes on the heirs.

In a bid to find a resolution, representatives from the Road and Bridge Office, the City Secretary of Jayapura, the Jayapura Police Chief, and the Commander of Dandim 1701 Jayapura engaged in a mediation process with the Merauje family. The mediation, held during the evening following the roadblock, aimed to foster open communication and seek a mutually agreeable solution that would address the concerns raised by both parties.

The land heirs' action and the subsequent mediation shed light on the importance of maintaining constructive dialogue between the community and the government. The resolution of conflicts through peaceful means, such as mediation and negotiation, can pave the way for a fair and just outcome that benefits all parties involved.

The local government has assured the land heirs that they are committed to addressing the outstanding land payment issue and finding a suitable solution. The heirs, in turn, have expressed relief and appreciation for the government's renewed commitment to resolving the matter.

As the roadblock has been successfully lifted, the Holtekam Road is once again open for regular traffic. The incident serves as a reminder of the significance of timely and effective communication between the authorities and the community to prevent similar disputes from arising in the future.

Moving forward, it is crucial for all stakeholders to uphold transparency and maintain an open line of dialogue to ensure that the interests of both the community and the government are safeguarded. (Evu)