We did it for our people, say MPs who switched

By GYNNIE KERO

WESTERN Governor Taboi Awi Yoto says his move from Opposition to Government was for the development of natural resources at P’nyang and Elevala Ketu among others.
Speaking at a media conference yesterday, the United Resource Party MP who switched to People’s National Congress, said: “To develop the resources in my province, I will need the Government’s support. I know my people will support me.”
Usino-Bundi MP Jimmy Uguro, who switched from National Alliance to PNC, also said he needed to deliver for the people in the remotest part of Madang.
“I come from remote district, literacy rate is low, we are struggling to change and when I campaigned in 2017 I campaigned to be in the government,” Uguro said.
“I thank NA and the Opposition. My move is to strengthen the government with my experience in the public service in delivering services to people in remote areas. I am answerable to my people.”
Maprik MP John Simon, who has joined the governing coalition from the Opposition, said his loyalty to his party ended when his duty to his people began. “I have a dream and vision for Maprik. How can I complete my vision if I continue to follow others? I have to come out,” he said.
“I have followed the party for several years. Now I have to be a leader on my own. My people voted for me for who I am and that’s the decision that I have to be in Government.
“My vision is how we can alleviate poverty in the country. In order to do that, I have to align myself with the Government, it’s important for my 84,000 people of Maprik district.
“The district is strategic and I have to put Maprik first. I consulted my people, people told me to move to Government.
“I thank NA and the Opposition. I have served NA for the last six to seven years and the time has come for one to move on and I have decided to move on. I thank (Patrick) Pruaitch and Opposition and I’m inviting them, come let’s all join the Government.”