Depleting numbers will not decrease our voices says Opposition Leader  

Sunday, 17 November 2024, 3:21 pm

Opposition Leader Douglas Tomuriesa

Opposition Leader Douglas Tomuriesa admits it is unfortunate to see depleting numbers in the Opposition bench after vigorously demanding for a change in leadership, but accepted the Our United Revolution [OUR] Party’s decision on what they believe their principles and policies are to contribute to national development.

Months after defecting to the Opposition, and unsuccessful motion of no-confidence to topple the leadership of Prime Minister James Marape, fourteen Members of Parliament announced to move back to the government side of the house when Parliaments sits, later this month.   

Leader of the Opposition Douglas Tomuriesa has acknowledged and accepted the decision by OUR Party MPs, led by party leader Rainbo Paita, to move back to the Government.

“Although the Opposition has fewer MPs as a result of this decision, it by no means decreases our voice, our commitment, or our values toward holding the Government accountable.

“We also thank the 14 MPs who are led by Mr Paita and their provisional support of our goal to *#SavePNG* from incompetent leadership ruining this country. The Opposition maintains a good working relationship with all MPs, and we wish them well in their next endeavours,” Mr. Tomuriesa said.

The Member for Finschhafen, was the Opposition nominated alternate prime minister candidate in the notice paper for motion of no-confidence against the prime minister in the September parliament sitting. 

During the Friday announcement, Mr. Paita said the decision by the Our Party Parliamentary members was made after discussions with senior parliamentarians in government, including the deputy prime minister and prime minister in the last two weeks.

And they were not lured because of ministries in the cabinet.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister James Marape welcomed the decision of the now former Opposition members into the government ranks.

“All of them are not new to us. They have been part of our government since 2019, and since 2022 but due to policy differences, have made their move. However, considering the need to consolidate to provide stability in light of our 50th anniversary next year 2025, they have returned.

The prime minister said he would be meeting his Pangu Pati leaders and officials, and coalition party leaders to process this announcement in the coming days.