Ministers ready for challenges

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By MALUM NALU
NEW ministers in the 33-man Cabinet named yesterday by Prime Minister Peter O’Neill are looking forward to the challenge.
Public Service Minister and Pomio MP Elias Kapavore said “it’s a big challenge”.
“We’d like to see a lot of reforms done. There’s so much complaining about the public service getting a lot of funds from Government and not giving the results that are required,” he said.
“There are many things that we can do. My first priority is to see a delegation of powers to district (District Development Authority) CEOs so that they can do things at district level where the bulk of the population is.
“At the moment, the devolution of powers lies with the provincial administrator, and we’ve got to review that so that greater powers are given to the CEOs.”
Obura-Wonenera MP Mehrra Kipefa, a staunch Christian, has been given Labour and Industrial Relations ministry.
“It’s a new phase for me,” he said.
“Everything begins with God and we can get things down to the people.”
Gazelle MP Jelta Wong, the new Police Minister, said he was looking forward to the post.
“It’s a new challenge and I look forward to learning and getting on with the job,” he said.
Civil Aviation Minister Alfred Manase said his appointment was for the people of Kandep who helped him oust Don Polye, the sitting MP and former Opposition Leader. “It’s been a struggle (to win),” he said.
“The Government has recognised the contribution I’ve made over the years (as a civil aviation lawyer).
“I will do what I can to support the Government.”