As the Papua New Guinea Parliament prepares to resume on Thursday, September 12, the nation braces for an active Vote of No Confidence (VONC) against Prime Minister James Marape. The Opposition, led by Kiriwina Goodenough MP Douglas Tomureisa, has officially nominated Finschaffen MP and former Finance Minister Rainbo Paita, as its Alternate Prime Minister, aiming to form a new government, a few days before the country celebrates its 49th Independence. The Opposition currently claims 35 Members of Parliament, and political horse-trading is expected as both sides vie for the numbers needed to secure victory. The VONC is a crucial moment in PNG politics, and the results could shift the balance of power within the country's government. Rainbo Paita, once a key figure in the Marape-Rosso Government, is now leading the charge for a change in leadership. He brings with him a mix of seasoned MPs and key figures from across the political spectrum, including prominent politicians such as former Prime Ministers Peter O'Neill, Sir Julius Chan and vocal anti-corruption politicians such as Allan Bird, Bryan Kramer, and Deputy Opposition leader, James Nomane. Their alliance covers all four regions of the country - the opposition bloc consists of 12 MPs from Southern, 11 from Highlands, nine from Momase, and three from New Guinea Islands. Despite the coalition's current numbers, they still need to secure additional support to achieve the 56 votes required for the motion to pass and for Paita to assume the role of Prime Minister. Prime Minister Marape remains confident that his Pangu Pati and its coalition partners will maintain their hold on power. Speaking earlier, he expressed his belief in the strength of his party’s internal unity, asserting that Pangu's MPs will remain loyal. Marape's government is also banking on its existing coalition members to withstand the pressure and retain their numbers when Parliament resumes. The political landscape is in flux, with negotiations ongoing, and both sides are working behind the scenes to secure crucial votes. With the VONC set for Thursday, the coming days will be crucial for determining the future of Papua New Guinea’s leadership. All eyes are now on the political chessboard, as the opposition attempts to oust Prime Minister Marape, while the government seeks to reaffirm its mandate amidst growing political tension, which has remained quiet these last few days with the historic Papal Visit in the country.