Opposition challenges Marape: A looming vote of no confidence

Prime Minister James Marape was all smiles at the Hilton Hotel today, where he attended the Tourism conference and alternate PM nominee, Sir Peter Ipatas, at a press conference today at the Grand Papua Hotel (NBC News)

Prime Minister nominee Sir Peter Ipatas is appealing to all members of the Pangu coalition Government to consider a change of leadership come next Tuesday.

In a news conference earlier today [Wednesday 9 April], Sir Peter said the goal of the alternate government is to save Papua New Guinea.

He believes the country needs a hard restart and the Vote of No Confidence provides that opportunity.

Sir Peter appealed to all Members in Parliament to put the interest of their people first.

Sir Peter Ipatas at the Grand Papua press conference today (Image: Supplied)

Ipatas wants to see election reforms

Sir Peter has also made it known that he wants to see the introduction of election reforms in Papua New Guinea.

The alternate prime minister nominee says it is evident that people continue to be denied their constitutional rights to a fair, safe, and reliable election process.

If given the opportunity, the veteran politician says reforms will be implemented.

Sir Peter says this process is critical for people to vote leaders who will contribute meaningfully to nation building.

Sir Peter at the press conference today at Grand Papua Hotel. Next to him are Deputy Opposition Leader James Nomane and member for Middle Fly, Hewabi Maso (Image: Supplied)

Now is the time

Adding on to the remarks by Sir Peter Ipatas, Deputy Opposition leader James Nomane says Papua New Guinea urgently needs a new leader at the top level.

Nomane says it is upon mandated leaders to make that decision for their people.

Despite the Opposition boasting a numerical strength of 19 members, he believes members of the government can unite to form a new government and save the country.

The Deputy Opposition leader says the parliament session next week Tuesday provides the perfect opportunity for a change in government.

PM James Marape at the opening of the 2-day Tourism Conference happening at Port Moresby's Hilton Hotel today (NBC News)

Business as usual for the government

From the government’s side, it was business as usual, with Prime Minister James Marape and Tourism Minister Belden Namah attending the launch of the tourism exposition in Port Moresby today.

No press conference or media statement was issued by the government.

Additionally, no response has been provided regarding East Sepik Governor Allan Bird’s filing of Section 145 [5 or 6] amendment at the Supreme Court.

This amendment challenges the law that introduced an 18-month grace period, which now prevents members of parliament from moving a vote of no confidence against the prime minister following an unsuccessful motion.

Governor Bird confirmed to NBC News yesterday [Tuesday 8 April] that he has filed a Section 18 Constitutional Review in the Supreme Court.

If the Opposition fails to oust Prime Minister Marape next Tuesday, they will not have another opportunity to move a vote of no confidence, effectively securing Marape’s position until the 2027 National General Election.