Tensions rise in Banz ahead of LLG Elections writs issue

With nominations for the 2025 Local Level Government (LLG) elections officially opening at 4 PM, tensions erupted in Banz, Jiwaka Province.

Disgruntled councilors from the Banz LLG in North Waghi stormed the LLG Manager’s office, confronting the manager and LLG president with accusations of fund misappropriation and misconduct.

The confrontation unfolded during a media briefing with NBC News, where North Waghi  LLG Council president David Kumb raised concerns over the non-payment of LLG Service Improvement Program [LLGSIP] funds.

Police quickly intervened and brought the councilors, along with North Waghi Electorate CEO John Kumie, Banz LLG Manager Philip Bongol, and President Kumb, to the Banz Police Station for mediation.

The councilors demanded answers about the lack of council meetings over the past five years and alleged that funds were withdrawn without proper processes.

They also demanded that the Banz LLG manager, Bongol, and President Kumb provide bank statements immediately.

Mr Bongol and Mr Kumb clarified that no funding was received under the LLGSIP grants.

Kumb said internal power struggles, legal disputes with opposing councilors and a court battle with a security company of a terminated contract in 2019 had caused instability.

He added that the council chamber’s operations have been slow due to a lack of support and funding from the responsible government department.

The mediation ended without resolution, and local leaders said that these issues are likely to continue throughout the LLG election period.