Province swears in new cabinet

 By PISAI GUMAR

THE Morobe provincial caretaker cabinet was sworn in yesterday to look after pressing issues in the next two weeks.

Tutumang clerk John Tubian swore in four members Judas Nalau (Yabem-Mape), Daki Mao (Umi-Atzera), Charlie Foike (Wain-Erap) and Joel Johnson Alu (Siassi). The event was witnessed by Finschhafen mayor Manasseh Laina.

Nalau was elected deputy governor unanimously after the formal swearing-in of the 32 presidents last Thursday.

Nalau will lead the lands and physical planning, agriculture and livestock, forest, fisheries and marine resources.

Mao will cater for policy and planning, human resources, health, sports, culture and tourism.

Foike is responsible for the provincial government and Christian churches partnership programmes, community development, education and law and order.

Alu looks after works infrastructure, government investments, commerce and industry, mining, petroleum and gas, carbon trade and environment.

“More critical issues await Tutumang deliberations and Sam Sewe (cabinet) endorsements. We have limited time and need to move immediately to address and implement,” Nalau said.

He said the caretaker government would meet with Governor Kelly Naru for the first provincial executive council meeting.

Foike said LLG accounts were put on hold, meaning presidents and councillors could not access them for the implementation of projects.