Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has described the departure of 18 MPs, including five ministers, from the Pangu Pati camp on Saturday night, as a ‘blessing in disguise’. He likened them to ‘excess fat in government’ that needs to be ‘trimmed’. Social media has been on fire since last night over the defection, as the lead-up to the Vote of No Confidence (VONC), which is anticipated to happen after Parliament resumes on Tuesday, May 28th. Police also have been given operational orders towards the VONC, as the country waits to see if a change in government will take place. The PM, however, has issued a statement saying he respects their decision to leave, highlighting his confidence in maintaining the status quo, and again, prepared to prove the hard yards the government has achieved since he took office in 2019. “A few hours ago, I received news that 18 MPs, including five ministers, have left Government to join up with the Opposition.” “In some ways, this is a blessing in disguise for me that some of the excess fat in government is trimmed so that we can have a lean and coherent government.” “I thank those who were part of my government and appreciate their support for me until their departure on their own accord and I wish them well.” “This is a play for a vote of no confidence, and I know they are joining the opposition that has Allan Bird as their nominee.” “I wish them well to assemble an alternative team and policy series that hopefully can do better for PNG than my Pangu and coalition team.” “I want to ask all Papua New Guineans to respect leaders as they make their choices and ply their trade.” “Leaders are elected by their people, and they have their rights to associate with leaders of like mind.” “As others have moved, I received calls from 41 Pangu MPs, and all our coalition party leaders and members, indicating their support.” Prime Minister Marape noted that Pangu had increased its numbers from 39 seats won in the 2022 National General Election to 59. “I was extremely privileged that 97 MPs voted for me to be prime minister again in August 2022.” “Since then, we have always had a very big government with many different interests.” “On Thursday, May 30th, 2024, I will compare statistics on the economy, education, health, infrastructure, and law and justice sectors so the nation can know what we have done in the last five hard years.” “If someone who can do the job better than me ascends, then I shall be content.” “May God’s will be done for our country, and I ask all our people to treat all leaders kindly as they process their thoughts on national leadership and national interests.”