Stalemate not Melanesian way

THE protagonists, Somare and O’Neill, are both products of their own society.
To progress politically, they both know that they must play the game of the big man, strong man and provider to colleagues and the masses, or at least appear to do so.
In this patron-client milieu, one builds up prestige and cultural capital. These are essential bargaining assets that can be used or wasted.
Both men have these political assets to some degree, and I would suggest that Somare until recently was more than blessed in this regard.
His power lies in the prestige he has acquired as the father of the nation, and the years he has served in parliament, and on the world stage.
But what is he doing?
As far as can be worked out from afar, he’s busy throwing away his chances by trying to emerge from the present deadlock by lamely calling out the army to support him.
At his age and state of health, Sir Michael should bring into play his essential strengths, which are his personal charm and his negotiation skills, and deal directly face-to-face with Peter O’Neill.
Both men have legitimate constitutional and parliamentary questions that need to be resolved and, I believe, can be resolved.
Politically, it’s not in O’Neill’s interests to just disregard Somare, for the old man still has a large following and his Sepik followers will never forget it if he is publicly humiliated.
Somare must be allowed to settle his differences with O’Neill with his dignity intact.
As a first move his parliamentary seat should be restored to him, and there must be an end to public name calling by both men.

David Wall
Via email