Column 1

Strangers here
If someone has not been sworn in as an MP but sits inside the parliamentary chambers, he or she is referred to as a “stranger”. At least one was spotted in the House yesterday.
Better days
Good to see so much the pomp and ceremony during the opening of our House yesterday. Perhaps an omen of better and brighter days ahead.
Middle benches
In Parliament, located between the Government benches and Opposition benches are what some refer to as the Middle benches. Always interesting to watch the MPs sitting there.
People rule
MPs who ignore what their people want are, so to speak, are digging their own graves. If they want the MP to join the Government side, he/she is supposed to do just that.
Adjusting figures
Expect a supplementary budget to be tabled this week to readjust figures provided in the 2022 national budget. So much has happened since then, in particular the longer-than-expected general election.
Open secret
The Electoral Commission is, for some reason, holding back the progressive tally count for the Southern Highlands provincial seat when William Powi was declared the winner last Thursday. So confusing.
Huge task
Correction: The Broncos have to beat the Dragons by at least 40 points to secure a place in the in the finals. And hope the Tigers beat the Raiders.
Food for thought
Overthinking is a common, stress-producing, unhealthy habit that typically includes focusing on the negative, dwelling on the past and worrying about the future – most of which you can do little or nothing about anyway.
Top quote
“Our ultimate responsibility is to them (people). We are therefore reminded once again to be prudent, to be forthright in our deliberations and to ensure that their interest is always kept at the forefront. If we have erred in the past, then it is not too late to make the changes. It starts today, not tomorrow.” – Prime Minister James Marape.

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