Opposition Leader names shadow cabinet

By REBECCA KUKU
OPPOSITION Leader Douglas Tomuriesa says forming a shadow cabinet is important for the country’s democracy to provide alternative policies, advice, and leadership to the people.
“In accordance with keeping the Government to account, our shadow cabinet follows parliamentary conventions to ensure we have concurrent oversight of the National Executive Council for the sake of accountability and transparency,” he said.
He will take up the State Enterprise, Forestry, Community Development, Religion and Youth, Information and Communication Technology, Tourism, Arts and Culture.
Deputy Opposition Leader James Nomane: Treasury, Finance and Implementation.
Abau MP Sir Puka Temu: Lands, Physical Planning and Urbanisation, Bougainville Affairs and Public Affairs.
Vanimo-Green MP Belden Namah: Defence and Foreign Affairs.
Ricky Morris: Provincial and local level government affairs, Fisheries and Marine resources.
North Fly MP James Donald: Mining, Environment, Conservation and Climate Change.
Johnson Wapunai: Internal security and Health.
Maso Hewabi: Works and Highway, Coffee.
David Arore: Higher Education, Sports and Education.
Sinesine-Yongmugl MP Kerenga Kua: Petroleum and Energy, International Trade and Investment.
Keith Iduhu: Justice and Attorney-General, Commerce and Industry, National Planning.
William Hagahuno: Agriculture.
Sam Basil Jnr: Civil Aviation and Transport.
Peter O’Neill: Housing, Labour and Immigration.
Tomuriesa said the shadow ministers “will aim to provide alternative policies on the ministries they are responsible for”.
“We aim to work with our line agencies to listen to what they think can be achieved better, be a voice of reason, keep the ministers in check, and provide solutions to them for possible implementation.
“I remind the country that like all Westminster systems of democracy, our shadow ministers take direct precedence after our ministers. We are their alternatives.
“We are here to lead, here to serve, and here to provide solutions. We will do this regardless of whether the Government chooses to listen or not.”