Semoso welcomed into ranks

Pangu Pati is “rock solid” with 55 Members of Parliament, with the inclusion of Pangu’s first female MP, the newly declared North Bougainville MP Francesca Semoso, says Prime Minister James Marape.
Marape, who is also Leader of Pangu Pati’s Parliamentary wing, said that with the inclusion of Semoso, the party now has 55 members.
He made this statement last Thursday night in Port Moresby at the Stanley Hotel and Suites during a welcome reception for Semoso.
He said that the party’s decision to endorse a woman candidate was to promote gender equality in politics.
“In the last general election, Pangu also endorsed the highest number of women candidates.
“And I thank the people of Bougainville for believing in Pangu and believing in Semoso.
“The party will work closely with the new MP (Semoso) to deliver services to North Bougainville as well as continue to address outstanding issues, such as the Bougainville autonomy and the matter of ratification.
“You have joined a very strong robust team of leaders who put our country first, knowing we belong to a party that knows that it has the greater responsibility in shaping the future of Papua New Guinea,” he said.
Marape also said Pangu was aware of the agenda and issues of the people of North Bougainville.
“We will continue to work with Bougainville to bring services to North Bougainville, complete the ring road around Buka Island, and fix the road from Kokopau to Buin.
“We will have some special consideration for your land and the rising sea issues for your atolls, and will work together to find solutions,” he said.
Marape said the Pangu led government will work closely with Semoso for a better Bougainville and Papua New Guinea.
Meanwhile, the North Bougainville writ was returned to the Acting Governor General Job Pomat last Friday at the Government House by the Electoral Commissioner Simon Sinai.
North Bougainville Member-elect, Francesca Semoso, is expected to be sworn into Parliament today.