Forest minister ready for government business

By HELEN TARAWA
FOREST Minister Douglas Tomuriesa is looking forward to his new responsibility as the Leader of Government Business although “there will be big shoes to fill”.
Tomuriesa told The National that his predecessor James Marape, who resigned last week from the position and as Finance Minister, had “done a lot”.
“Marape has been holding this position for quite some time and had the experience. He has left big shoes for me to fill,” he said.
“(But) I look forward to the job. As politicians it will be difficult but that’s what we will work towards.” Tomuriesa takes on the new position in a Cabinet reshuffle to fill the gap created by Marape’s resignation.
Prime Minister Peter O’Neill named Sam Basil to replace Marape while Markham MP Korni Iguan becomes Communications Minister. Bulolo MP Basil, the leader of the Pangu Party, will continue to look after Kumul Petroleum and Kumul Mining – two significant investments on behalf of the people.
Rigo MP Lekwa Gure takes over from Iguan as chairman of the public accounts committee.