Marape takes over Basil’s portfolio

By MIRIAM ZARRIGA
PRIME Minister James Marape is looking after the portfolio held by his deputy Sam Basil until his tribunal hearing is completed.
“Until the tribunal is concluded, and in respect to him, his portfolios will remain with me,” Marape said.
“I informed Parliament that Sam Basil, the MP for Bulolo, is suspended from duties with full pay in pursuant of Section 28 of the Organic Law on the Duties and Responsibilities of Leadership.”
Basil, as chairman of the Bulolo District Development Authority, allegedly failed to declare to the Ombudsman Commission the use of K150,000 from the district operating account in 2015.
He is accused of interfering with the decision of the Central Supply and Tenders Board regarding the awarding of a contract to build the Wau commercial and district headquarters.
He holds the positions of Deputy Prime Minister and Ministry for Commerce and Industry.
Marape said no one would be appointed to replace Basil yet.
“Everybody is innocent until proven guilty.
“So I will keep this position, just like I did during the tribunal (hearing) of Agriculture and Livestock Minister John Simon and Defence Minister Solan Mirism,” Marape said.
“(Out of respect), we have allowed them to face the tribunal,” he said.