Deputy PM Steven not bothered by speculations

By LUKE KAMA
DEPUTY Prime Minister Davis Steven is least bothered by speculation that he will be replaced in his position.
“While there is a lie going around on social media, I am happily discharging my official duties,” he said.
Steven, also the Minister for Justice and Attorney-General, was the subject of a recent social media discussion on the possible appointment of someone to replace him as deputy PM.
He said he was happily discharging his official duties and was not aware of the “lies” circulated on social media.
The speculation arose from news that Patrick Pruaitch and his National Alliance Party MPs were going to cross the floor to join the Government from the Opposition.
Pruaitch was touted as a candidate for the deputy prime minister’s position.
Prime Minister James Marape, however, denied that Steven would be replaced.
“False,” he said in a WhatsApp message to The National on Monday evening.
Steven and Marape were the first to resign from the Peter O’Neill-led cabinet early this year.
Others later joined the group they formed which forced O’Neill to resign as PM when his numbers dwindled.
The only difference between the two MPs is the political parties they are members of.
Steven is a member of the People’s Party led by Jiwaka Governor William Tongamp while Marape is the leader of the Pangu Pati.