Court Orders Gerehu Tete Settlers to Vacate Land for New Hospital Project

The National Court has ordered residents occupying land at Gerehu Tete in Port Moresby to vacate the area by July 24, 2026, paving the way for the construction of a proposed Grade Five public hospital.

The land, identified as portions 3530 and 3521, has been allocated to the Health Department for the hospital project, which is expected to be implemented by the National Capital District Commission (NCDC).

The court ruling followed a human rights case filed by a group of settlers seeking relief against eviction. However, the application was dismissed, with the court directing all occupants to remove themselves, their belongings, and any structures from the site before the deadline.

National Court Judge David Cannings stated that while the occupants were not recognized as customary landowners and had no legal authority to occupy the land, they had established an equitable interest and were therefore entitled to reasonable notice before being required to leave.

Authorities are expected to conduct a compliance check following the expiry of the notice period.

The proposed hospital is expected to significantly improve healthcare services for residents in Port Moresby and surrounding communities.

📍 Gerehu Tete, Port Moresby📅 Vacate Deadline: July 24, 2026