Vanimo MP released by Govt, free to cross floor

PRIME Minister and Pangu Party leader James Marape announced the release of Vanimo-Green MP and PNG Party leader Belden Namah from Government yesterday.
Marape said Pangu Party’s parliamentary and non-parliamentary wings reached a resolution to release Namah from Government.
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to Namah for his participation in the Government since the 2022 General Election but emphasised that Pangu Party believed it was time to release him.
“Namah is a personal friend but I have responded to the call by my party,” Marape said in a statement.
He also acknowledged the resignations of six MPs last week from Government last week.
Marape thanked them for their contributions since the creation of Government in 2022.
“They are free to join the Opposition as mandated leaders, and from there, they can offer constructive alternatives to how we all can develop our country.
“They joined the Government after the 2022 General Election as individual leaders.
“We have offered them room and support, as a fair Government should, however, they have always shown signs of dissatisfaction, hence, it is fair that they leave.
“The Government, led by Pangu Party with 52 MPs and the solid backing of coalition partners, remains intact.”
Pangu Party general-secretary Morris Tovebae thanked Namah for the 18 months of work with the Government.
However, Namah in a statement yesterday said: “I am not a member of his (Marape) Pangu Party. But thank you James Marape for the respect accorded.”
Namah said he had announced his resignation from Government on Thursday.