UN boss voices concern over leadership deadlock in PNG

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed concern yesterday about mounting political tensions in Papua New Guinea, where two prominent politicians each say they are the rightful leader.
Papua New Guinea’s parliament voted earlier on Aug 2 to elect Peter O’Neill as prime minister after determining that the post was vacant when incumbent Sir Michael Somare spent five months abroad for medical treatment, according to media reports.
The Supreme Court on Monday ruled that parliament acted illegally, and that Sir Michael – who has returned to Papua New Guinea – should be reinstated.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Ban called on all sides “to exercise maximum restraint and to avoid an escalation of the situation.” – UN News Centre/Pacnews