Ogio recognises 20 in Somare camp

By JUNIOR UKAHA
GOVERNOR-General Sir Michael Ogio yesterday officially declared 20 politicians as cabinet ministers led by Sir Michael Somare.
The 20, including Sir Michael, were Wabag MP Sam Abal, Aitape-Lumi MP Patrick Pruaitch, Francis Potape (Komo-Margarima), Tari’s James Marape, Nuku MP Andrew Kumbakor, Paru Aihi (Kairuku-Hiri), Madang’s Sir Arnold Amet, Bob Dadae (Kabwum), Moresby South MP Dame Carol Kidu, Lagaip-Porgera’s Philip Kikala, Philemon Embel (Nipa-Kutubu), Mul-Baiyer MP Sani Rambi, Sasa Zibe (Huon-Gulf), Ramu MP Ben Semri, Timothy Bonga (Nawaeb), Ambunti-Dreikikir’s Tony Aimo, member for Tambul-Nebilyer Benjamin Poponawa, John Pundari (Kompiam-Ambum) and Bougainville regional MP Fidelis Semoso.
Also allocated a “ministerial” portfolio but missing yesterday was Gazelle MP Patrick Tammur.
The Government House event also saw “changes” to the top posts at police and finance.
Sir Arnold described the actions of the O’Neill-Namah regime during the past four days as “unconstitutional, illegal and an attempt to pervert the course of justice”.
He said the Supreme Court ruling of Dec 12 was explicit and must be respected.