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By HARLYNE JOKU
THE National Alliance-led coalition is still deep in discussion over the
formation of the new cabinet, with a senior aide of the prime minister
describing the situation as “still fluid”.
Yesterday, scores of the NA’s Highlands bloc members gathered for a
convention at Granville Motel in Port Moresby, where Sir Michael Somare
was meeting with coalition leaders, and they expected him to announce
the cabinet after that.
However, the meeting ended late in the evening with no decision.
The prime minister’s chief of staff, Dr Theo Yasause, said negotiations
were still going on for the ministerial portfolios.
“At this stage negotiations are taking place but still fluid and not
very clear yet,” he told The National.
Ms Betha Somare, head of the prime minister’s media unit, said the
Cabinet was expected to be named next week.
It is believed that the deputy prime minister and treasurer’s posts are
among the most sought-after and the NA’s Highlands bloc want both.
They had also demanded the parliamentary speaker’s position but that has
already gone to Sinasina Yogomogul MP Jeffrey Nape for a second term.
The Highlands bloc is hoping that Sir Michael will appoint its leader,
Mr Don Polye, as deputy prime minister.
Wabag MP Sam Abal confirmed that the highlands bloc was expecting
certain positions for its leaders.
Asked about this, Mr Yasause said it was the prerogative of the prime
minister after consulting with his party officials and deputies.
It is believed that Mr Polye did not attend the meeting at Granville but
met with members of the highlands bloc at the Botanical Gardens.
At the coalition meeting, the National Alliance’s regional coordinator,
Mr Rex Paki, gave a brief report on the 2007 general election.
Five other highlands branch chairmen and new MPs from the region were
introduced to the leaders.
Sources said one of the main issues that was discussed and resolved was
the demand for the Hela and Jiwaka areas in Southern Highlands to be
declared separate provinces.
However, they did not elaborate on the discussions.
 
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