Prime Minister (PM) and Pangu Pati Leader, James Marape, is confident as his government prepares to face the Vote of No Confidence (VONC) this week.
The government coalition now boasts 80 members, strengthened by the return of Pomio MP, Elias Kapavore, to the Pangu Pati-led government, despite newly reinstated Madang MP Bryan Kramer announcing his resignation on Sunday, September 1st.
“Eighty (80) is good for us, especially as we want to pursue constitutional matters in Parliament. Kapavore brings us up to 78 now. For Pangu, we have 10 from New Guinea Islands region, 19 from the New Guinea Highlands, 9 from Momase, and 10 from Southern region,” stated Prime Minister Marape.
Marape expressed confidence in maintaining stability, citing his experience in 2020 when his government weathered a similar challenge.
“It’s nothing new; it comes with the territory. We are not in the business of deliberately dismantling the Opposition, which is important for our country’s governance, so I welcome any challenge,” he added.
He also emphasized the importance of a strong opposition for democracy but criticized the Opposition’s tactics, accusing them of “buying time” by making procedural errors in their VONC motion.
“Last time, when the Speaker ruled in their favour to have the motion on notice, technically, the Speaker overrode the Private Business Committee,” Marape clarified.
With the numbers on his side, Marape remains optimistic as the VONC approaches, underscoring that it is “business as usual” for his government and the country.
He anticipates potential movements within Parliament but remains steadfast in his leadership.