A voice for the voiceless, that is the slogan of a candidate who knows a lot about using his voice. He is none other than local and international reggae artist Anslom Nakikus, and he is contesting the Moresby North West seat in the 2022 National General Election.
Nakikus, who comes from Matupit in East New Britain Province, always had an interest in people’s rights which he channels through his music and now he has decided to take it the next level by trying his hand at politics, so that he could be able to help the people from Waigani.
“My songs have always been about addressing social issues in the country. Politics, fighting corruption and many others are real life issues as it hurts me to see our people suffering.”
Nakikus aims to bring about social change to the community starting with the main issues and that’s to create more job opportunities, generating more small businesses for a sustainable economy and to create more housing schemes that is affordable.
“These are some of my main goals in which I wish to achieve. As for job opportunities, there are a lot of people out there, especially those degree holders, that are still unemployed because there is nothing for them out there.”
In addition to this, Nakikus also expressed his concerns for housing problems in the city. He said that it is quite hard for people to find affordable homes to rent and purchase these days with most of the working class ending up renting accommodation in settlements.
“These are real life issues that have always been here for many years now and this is why places like the North West electorate needs serious leadership.”
Nakikus, who graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science, also majored in Language and Literature and has a Postgraduate Diploma in Education added to his academic achievements, and knows he has enough experience and qualifications to carry on such a role if he wins this year’s election.
“If voted, I will make sure as part of my duty that I work closely with the NCD Governor in making sure that the people’s cries are being heard and that social change is brought to them. I believe it is now time we all work together to bring about change.”
Nakikus will be contesting as an independent candidate and is amongst twenty-seven other candidates running for the Moresby Northwest seat. He encouraged every voter to make the right choice and to know the candidates well before voting them. He also urged voters to respect the candidates including their posters and other properties.