No-Confidence Motion Against PNG Prime Minister Marape Denied: Opposition Expresses Outrage22/2/2024
In a surprising turn of events, the Standing Committee on Private Business in Papua New Guinea dismissed the motion of no confidence against Prime Minister James Marape. The decision was announced by Acting Speaker Koni Iguan, leading to Parliament's adjournment until May 28. This marked the third attempt by the Opposition to bring forward the motion, with the latest submission filed on Feb 20. The Opposition, visibly displeased, expressed their frustration when Iguan stated that the motion would not be listed on the notice paper without providing a specific reason. Despite the lack of clarification during the parliamentary session, a committee member offered insights into the decision after the session concluded. The Private Business Committee deemed that the notice would not be placed on the notice paper, according to Iguan. Sinasina Yongomugl MP Kerenga Kua labeled the turn of events as a "serious sabotage of the Constitution," while Belden Namah (Vanimo Green) called it a "hijacking of the parliamentary process." Amidst the confusion and dissatisfaction from the Opposition, Kua emphasized the need to understand the status of the motion. The Opposition is considering seeking the courts' interpretation to address the situation. Acting Speaker Iguan outlined the committee's awareness of the constitutional significance of the motion, acknowledging its national importance. However, he stated that the notice of the motion would not be placed on the notice paper, promising to inform the mover of the reason in due course. The announcement triggered a chaotic scene in Parliament, with shouts of "point of orders" echoing. Leader of Government Business Renbo Paita swiftly moved to adjourn Parliament until May 28. During the commotion, Hiri-Koiari MP Keith Iduhu raised a point of order, emphasizing that the relevant notice of motion was dated Feb 20, not Feb 14. Iguan noted the point and said he would verify the information. Kerenga Kua raised concerns about the importance of the motion and requested clarity on the committee's ruling. Despite repeated objections and requests for clarification from the Opposition, Iguan maintained that the committee's decision was final. Parliament is set to resume at 2 pm on May 28, leaving many unanswered questions and a sense of discontent among members of the Opposition. The denial of the motion has ignited debates on parliamentary procedures and constitutional matters, adding a layer of uncertainty to the political landscape in Papua New Guinea. Also read Comments are closed.
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