Ex-MP says coalition is key

FORMING a grand coalition is the solution to the current political impasse, former member for Laiagam-Porgera Mark Ipuia says.
He urged Sir Michael Somare and Peter O’Neill to stop the “fighting” and form a grand coalition to take the country to the general election.
Ipuia, who served as MP from 1977 to 1987, said the power struggle for the Prime Minister’s position was wrong and was affecting the people and investors.
He suggested that both parties come to a compromise and form a grand coalition, with no opposition, to rule the country until the general election.
He said both leaders had to respect parliament and whatever decision made had to be from parliament so that the people were satisfied.
Ipuia said he respected the law but respect for the parliament had to prevail at all times, and both leaders needed to “give in, regardless of the circumstances, for the people’s sake”.
Ipuia said the current events had caught the nation’s attention and parliament had to act in a democratic manner.
He said the people could not have two
prime ministers and two governor generals but a vibrant team of leaders who would ensure stability.
He said people were now beginning to doubt their leaders and needed a decision to be made soon so that they were not made to suffer.
Ipuia, who had served as Works and Supply minister under Sir Michael, challenged both leaders to work together for the good of the people.
He said apart from rare tribal conflicts, the people were peace-loving and lived peacefully as their forefathers did. Leaders needed to lead the nation peacefully with good things set to happen in the country.