Eastern bloc leaders unhappy

COMMUNITY leaders from three highlands provinces say Peter O’Neill has not recognised the Eastern bloc that put him into power in his cabinet.
Eddie Topiso from Banz, Jiwaka, said although they had been given the defence portfolio through Dr Fabian Pok, they were still unhappy.
He said Jiwaka was known for generating millions of kina for Papua New Guinea from coffee and tea exports.
“We need to be recognised for the immense contributions in business, agriculture and politics,” he said.
“Jiwaka needs to have key positions in government to strengthen the new province.”
In Chimbu, Herman Kagl said former Chimbu governor John Garia had formed the Eastern bloc that led to the toppling of the Somare government and the installation of the O’Neill-Namah government last year.
Kagl said the allocation of one ministry to Chimbu through Sinasina-Yongomugl MP Kerenga Kua was not enough.
He said the Triumph Heritage Empowerment Party had won two seats through Camilus Dangma (Kerowagi) and Wera Mori (Chuave) in the province.
Jogina Inahe from Asaro Daulo district, Eastern Highlands, said the Eastern bloc had more ministries in the previous government but the new government had failed to reward them with full portfolios.
Eastern Highlands received only Lands and Physical Planning through Benny Allan (Unggai-Bena).