Send-off programme irks National Alliance

THE National Alliance Party is disappointed with the farewell programme planned for Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare today, saying it is disrespectful of a man who has contributed so much to the country.
A party spokesperson told The National yesterday that the farewell programme showed a lack of respect for Sir Michael.
“This is a man who spent 49 years in Parliament since 1968 in the House of Assembly up till now,” the spokesperson said.
The spokesperson said there was no point in the party MPs including Sir Michael attending Parliament today.
“What’s the point? Let (Prime Minister) Peter O’Neill go and get the quorum and talk on his (Sir Michael’s) behalf.”
But Leader of Government Business James Marape said it was the prerogative of the NA party MPs to attend the last day of Parliament today.
“Parliament is run based on the Government caucus decisions,” he said.
Marape said Sir Michael’s farewell programme was brought forward to today from Thursday, because MPs wanted to return to their electorates.
Today is the 49th anniversary of Sir Michael’s first entry into Parliament – on April 4, 1968.
Marape said other non-parliamentary programmes in the city and country to farewell the Grand Chief would continue.
“However, because tomorrow (today) is the last day of Parliament, we will do the Parliament programme.”