In a bold move to consolidate power, Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has initiated a significant reshuffling of his cabinet, unveiling a series of strategic changes aimed at reinforcing his grip on the government.
The most notable alteration involves the relegation of the country's Treasurer, Ian Ling-Stuckey, who has been stripped of his role and appointed as a vice-minister assisting the Prime Minister. Marape justified this move by expressing his intention to personally oversee the affairs of the Treasury and Finance departments in the aftermath of recent riots, thereby bringing Ling-Stuckey under his direct supervision. In a bid to expand the scope of his influence, Marape has duplicated ministries, split three ministerial portfolios, and introduced a new one. This maneuver has led to an increase in the size of the Cabinet from 33 to 37 ministers. Key changes include the reinstatement of Moresby-South MP Justin Tkatchenko to the Foreign Affairs portfolio, a position from which he had been stood aside last year due to public outcry over derogatory comments made on Australian television. A novel addition to the cabinet is the creation of the Key Constitutional Offices ministry, tasked with overseeing crucial constitutional bodies such as the National Identification Programme (NID), Census Office, PNG Electoral Commission, Independent Commission against Corruption (ICAC), Auditor-General, Ombudsman Commission, and other constitutional offices. This pivotal ministry will be headed by second-term Popondetta MP Richard Masere of the Greens Party. Further adjustments involve Esaála MP Jimmy Maladina assuming the role of Petroleum Minister, with Kerenga Kua, formerly the minister for Petroleum and Energy, retaining only half of his previous responsibilities. Nipa Kutubu MP Dr. Billy Joseph has been appointed as the new Defence Minister, while Kundiawa-Gembogl MP Muguwa Dilu (Pangu Pati) takes on the role of Mining Minister. The Internal Security Ministry has been split, with Bougainville MP Peter Tsiamalili remaining as Police Minister, Joe Kuli assuming the role of Correctional Service Minister, and Koroba-Kopiago MP William Bando replacing Kuli as Coffee Minister. Marape expressed his satisfaction with the reshuffle, welcoming the six new ministers into the cabinet. He emphasized the challenges ahead, cautioning the newly appointed officials that the demands of their roles would require dedication, even during unconventional hours. “I call my Ministers at midnight, 1 am, 2 am to discuss work, be prepared, because the work is about to start,” warned Prime Minister Marape, indicating his commitment to a rigorous work ethic among his team. The reshuffle, with its strategic changes and ministerial reallocations, underscores Marape's determination to fortify his leadership in Papua New Guinea.
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