Pruaitch: O’Neill has heart for PNG people

By CLIFFORD FAIPARIK
OPPOSITION Leader Patrick Pruaitch, pictured, has praised Peter O’Neill’s decision to step down as prime minister saying it shows he has a heart for the people of Papua New Guinea.
“For you to step down shows that you have listened to the cries of the people,” Pruaitch said
He said O’Neill was one of the seven MPs who arrived on the political scene in 2002.
He arrived with Rabaul MP Dr Allan Marat, Abau MP Sir Puka Temu, Middle Fly MP Roy Biyama, Hagen MP William Duma, Unggai-Bena MP Benny Allen and Pruaitch.
“We are the remnants of 2002. So I want to take this time to acknowledge his good work,” Pruaitch said.
“But then in politics, in leadership, there will be critics and we Papua New Guineans allow emotion to spoil good things.
“And we must reason and acknowledge the contribution of our leaders.
“The country is proud of you.
“Even in recent times, when the country rises up to change you and the Government, I think you have responded and demonstrated leadership in so far as the country is concerned.
“But we are still friends despite the politics.
“And let me place on record that as a new leader in our generations of leaders, you have done well.”
He hugged O’Neill after the parliament session ended yesterday.