Group invites candidates for prime minister’s job

A GROUP of MPs challenging the leadership of Prime Minister Peter O’Neill is inviting candidates for the position to raise their hands.
Tari-Pori MP James Marape said the group camped at the Laguna Hotel was yet to nominate a candidate but it was open to all MPs.
“If you think that you have what it takes and want to become prime minister, come and make your case,” Marape said.
“We are ready for change and the Opposition has been kind enough to put the prime minister’s position on the table.”
He called on New Ireland Governor and former prime minister Sir Julius Chan, Western Highlands Governor and former prime minister Paias Wingti, Finance Minister Sam Basil and William Duma, currently on the Government side, to cross the floor.
Marape said it was time for a transition.
Sir Julius met members of his People’s Progress Party as they prepared for the session of Parliament starting today.
Basil and eight former Pangu Pati MPs yesterday joined the Melanesian Alliance Party.
Duma’s United Resources Party is remaining with O’Neill’s coalition government.