We are intact, says Parkop

THE 72 MPs loyal to Peter O’Neill say they will not be moved after receiving offers of ministerial positions from the opposite camp.
National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop told parliament their group was intact and would not be tempted by the offers from the group led by Sir Michael Somare.
He said some of the MPs in the group had been assured ministries by the Somare camp but they would “not move an inch”.
He said the 72 members had run away from the old regime and decided to form a government for the people they represented to fight corruption and serve the people.
He said they wanted to fight corruption and make a change in delivering services to the people.
He said they were in parliament to carry out the wishes of the people and not for any individual member or political group.
Meanwhile, he urged the Somare faction to come back to parliament because it was where the collective will and power was exercised.
“We have to solve the issues amicably for the benefit of the people and independent state of PNG,’’ he said.
Meanwhile Anglimp South Waghi MP Jamie Maxton Grahame called on the disputing parties to resolve the issue in the Melanesian way.
He called on the Somare family to ask the Grand Chief to quit as leader because he needed a good rest after his three operations.
“I think he is not capable but a bunch of desperados were using him and those people should try and allow the Grand Chief to rest then using him for their benefit,’’ he said.