Prime Minister James Marape will be referring the mover and the seconder of the motion on the Vote of No Confidence in the Prime Minister to the Parliamentary Privileges Committee to investigate reports of forgery of signatures in the motion.
He expressed concerns that some politicians’ signatures were used without their permission in the motion filed on February 14 and February 20.
Marape condemned the alleged forgery, stating that it’s “absolutely wrong” and reminiscent of past government fraud.
“Leaders are coming out stating that their signatures have been used without their consent.”
“I will be asking the Parliamentary Privileges Committee to ask the mover and the seconder of the motion as to how they procured the signatures of those who signed the Motion on Vote of No Confidence.”
“It looks as if somebody is cutting and pasting these signatures and filling in names.”
“This is absolutely wrong! This level of deceit must be condemned in the strongest terms.”
He warned against those who break the law lecturing others about it and emphasized the importance of following proper procedures for changing the government.
“To change government, there is a process and a set of procedures to follow. Follow the law.”
“Certain leaders have voiced they have not signed both motions the Opposition has filed. I am very concerned at this news.”
“As Prime Minister, I do not tolerate people who abuse the process, especially those who claim to be the ‘alternate government’ who want to fight for our people’s rights.”
Marape also hinted at involving the Ombudsman in the matter due to the severity of the forgery allegations.
He urged the public to be wary, stating that some politicians may change their words but not their actions.
Despite sympathizing with East Sepik Governor and Opposition’s nominated Alternative Prime Minister Allan Bird, Marape made it clear that he knows the main instigators behind the motion.