Somare thanks MPs for voting for bills

Main Stories, National
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The National, Thursday 24th November 2011

GRAND Chief Sir Michael Somare thanked members of parliament who voted for two important Bills yesterday.
Sir Michael, who came for a National Alliance party meeting at Parliament House, looked fit and in good spirits.
He told a media conference that he was glad the two bills – on proclaiming Hela and Jiwaka as new provinces and the amendment bill which will reserve 22 seats for women in parliament – were finally passed after his government had laid the foundation for them.
He said he was glad that Hela and Jiwaka would enter the 2012 election as separate provinces effectively breaking away from Southern Highlands and Western Highlands respectively.
“I’m glad they run as separate provinces and I say thank you for those who voted for the bill,” he said.
He also pointed out that since 52% of the country’s population was made up of women, it was important that they were recognised and allowed to make decisions as they were equal partners in development.