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Chairman Morris Lula Emphasizes Push for Statehood and Importance of Electoral Engagement
By Lionel Taorao, Stringer/Reporter – Ulawa (Makira/Ulawa Province)
The Makira Ulawa Cultural Platform group, also known as the “MotherLand” group on Ulawa Island, is set to participate in the upcoming Synchronized Elections after abstaining from involvement in both the 2014 and 2019 National and Provincial Elections.
In an exclusive interview with Mr. Morris Lula, Chairman of the North Ulawa Cultural Platform group, he explained the group’s decision to refrain from participation in the previous elections, citing concerns over the newly introduced Biometric Voters Registration system (BVR).
“The reason for not participating in the 2014 voters’ registration is because of the newly used Biometric Voters Registration system where we were advised by our crowned chief not to partake in the newly used voter registration system which he says is not good for our members”, Mr. Lula says. He further says that following the advice of their chief, members from both Makira and Ulawa did not engage in the newly implemented registration process.
However, Mr. Lula emphasized that the group has now decided to partake in the 2024 Synchronized Elections, expressing their belief that it is time to join the electoral process as the nation moves towards achieving a Federal system.
“The decision for us to participate in the voters registration process this year 2024 is so that we can cast our votes for a leader both at the Provincial and National level to push for statehood for our people”, Mr. Lula adds. He stressed the importance of their participation, noting that it is crucial to elect leaders who can address their aspirations for statehood.
Mr. Lula highlighted that not only will the cultural platform communities on Ulawa Island cast their votes, but all eligible members in the Makira Ulawa Province who have registered will participate in the elections.
The origins of the Cultural Platform communities trace back more than a decade, when individuals from coastal villages in the Arosi district of San Cristobal Island relocated inland, forming what is now known as “the Platform.” The group was initially established with a constitution with the whole purpose of reviving and maintaining the traditional and cultural practices of Makira- Ulawa province.
Ulawa Island hosts two Cultural Platform communities, one situated in the North Ulawa Ward inland of Su’u moli village, and the other in the Arona Area.
