Political betrayal nothing new

FRIDAY the 13th is considered an unlucky day in Western superstition.
It occurs when the 13th day of the month in the Gregorian calendar falls on a Friday, which happens at least once every year but can occur up to three times in the same year.
In PNG, something spookier happened within the political arena and corridors of Waigani.
Good or bad omen, coincident or not, such was the fate of the Marape-led Pangu Pati government when a good number of his senior ministers and coalition partners moved over to opposition and boycotted the budget process and set a date for a potential motion of no confidence in December.
PNG politics is known for its betrayals and compromise, giving rise to continued instability in successive governments over the years.
As they say, there is no permanent enemies or friends in politics, we eat from the same plate and share the same bed.
Betrayal and power go hand in hand.
Julius Caesar was stabbed by long-time confidant Brutus when he least expected it.
In his time, Caesar was perhaps the most decorated and influential general and his continuous prominence was a threat to the Roman Empire.
Jesus Christ himself was betrayed by one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, for 30 pieces of silver.
Throughout history, betrayal has been the norm of elevation to higher status and power.
PNG politics, although young, has adapted that trend and this makes stability of government difficult.
Any prime minister has to be careful not to make anyone unhappy in fear of people walking out on him and that leaves the running of the country vulnerable.
No one is indispensable.
Politics is not only a game of winning and dethroning.
It is a liability and can cost you dearly. Political betrayal is nothing new.
Thanks to it, new governments can be formed and leaders can be changed.
Even if victims are hurt and angry about this practice, it is here to stay and will be as long as parliamentary democracy prevails.

Samuel Ilau
Lae