Five more years for PM Marape

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TARI-PORI MP James Marape was yesterday elected for a second term as prime minister in the 11th Parliament at around 4.30pm.
Ninety-seven MPs out of the 106 declared expressed confidence in his leadership over the next five years.
What was supposed to be a 10am start turned out to be a whole-day affair for the country to know the speaker and prime minister.
Thanking the 97 MPs who voted for him, Marape as Pangu Pati leader, acknowledged the coalition partners such as the United Resources Party and National Alliance and others for their support.
People’s National Congress (PNC) Party leader and Ialibu-Pangia MP Peter O’Neill who left Parliament before the appointment of Marape, said: “I did not vote for Marape today simply because I cannot vote for what is wrong.
“I walked out and gave our party (PNC) MPs the opportunity to vote on conscience.
“I also have a court case going on the interpretation of the Constitution about Parliament sittings and return of writs and election of prime minister.”
Marape said he was privileged to lead a coalition of likeminded leaders to form a Government.
Marape also congratulated Manus MP Job Pomat who was also re-elected Speaker yesterday.
Gulf Governor Chris Haiveta moved a motion for Pomat to take the chair at around 2.15pm.
Madang MP Bryan Kramer moved to close the nomination, supported by Imbonggu MP Pila Niningi.
At 2.53pm, Pomat was elected Speaker and was taken to Government House to be sworn in by Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae.


Marape eyes improvement of services

Prime Minister James Marape says the Government will begin its work by strengthening the democratic processes, building a resilient economy, building economic infrastructure and addressing natural resources issues.
“We will address businesses and build investment confidence, address law and order issues, work on education, health and strengthening the institutions of the state.
“These are fundamental areas of focus that must drive our Government’s work for the next five years.
“It will not be easy but it is absolutely necessary,” he added.
“This is not a new Government.
“We are continuing with the Government we started three years ago.
“And the supplementary budget for September 2022 will address some of the key enablers for the next five years.
“Both sides of this August House must work with the Government to deal with the policy initiatives that have been outlined.
“All of us have been mandated to deal with the challenges before us, and it is our collective opportunity to meet the people’s expectations.”
Marape said all MPs did not have the luxury of time to fulfil the wishes and inspirations of the people.