Pomat to return after trip

By JEFFREY ELAPA
SPEAKER Job Pomat is expected to return to the country today after accompanying Unggai-Bena MP Benny Allan for medical treatment, an official says.
The two were among the four members of the People’s National Congress (PNC) absent from the party caucus on Wednesday in Port Moresby. The other two were West New Britain Governor Sasindran Muthuvel and Ambunti-Dreikikir MP Johnson Wapunai.
Party general-secretary Dom David Kua said the four had been excused.
First Secretary to the Office of the Speaker Hilary Malai said Pomat was expected to return today after accompanying “friend and parliamentary colleague” Allan to the Philippines where he was to undergo medical treatment.
“They have been good friends for a long time, even before entering politics,” Malai said.
“It is normal in the spirit of respect in the Melanesian way. Nothing political.
“It is done in the true Melanesian culture and spirit.
“In the absence of his family, he felt that it was honourable to accompany his long-time friend and colleague to the Philippines.”
The PNC members who attended the party caucus were Prime Minister Peter O’Neill, Deputy Prime Minister Charles Abel, Alfred Manase, Bari Palma, Douglas Tomuriesa, Elias Kapavore, Jimmy Uguro, John Pundari, John Simon, John Luke Critin, Justin Tkatchenko, Koi Trappe, Michael Nali, Nick Kuman, Patrick Basa, Jeffery Komal, Petrus Thomas, Pila Niningi, Richard Maru, Richard Masere, Robert Atiyafa, Roy Biyama, Sam Akotai, Sir Puka Temu, Solan Mirisim, Soroi Eoe, Taboi Awi Yoto, Tony Wouwou, Waka Goi, Wesley Nukundj, Win Daki, Francis Maneke, Weri Mori and Wosera-Gawi MP Joseph Yopyyopy.