By Gorethy Kenneth in Port Moresby
Papua New Guinea’s opposition has vowed to remove Prime Minister James Marape and his government from power.
During a media conference held last Friday, alternative prime minister Allan Bird shed light on the multitude of unresolved issues accumulated over the past four years under Marape’s leadership, assuring the public that they would address these concerns once elected.
Bird expressed optimism, saying: “Definitely, we are obviously in discussions, we have friends.”
This remark implied the formation of a substantial coalition aimed at challenging the current government’s authority.
Former Prime Minister Peter O’Neill further fuelled the opposition’s determination, proclaiming: “If we were not confident, we would not be handing in the motion.”
This sentiment was echoed by Sinasina-Yongomugl MP Kerenga Kua, who offered an unprecedented wave of positivity.
“I have never felt this optimistic in a situation like this. We are very confident,” Kua said.
Bird highlights challenges
Bird highlighted the pressing economic challenges faced by the country, drawing
attention to the recent rioting and looting on “Black Wednesday”, an expression symbolising a profound financial crisis.
He emphasised the immense pressure on the government to find solutions due to their governance and control over the nation’s finances.
“The current state of our economy, particularly as demonstrated on Black Wednesday, is unprecedented,” Bird said.
“This alone exerts immense pressure on the government,” Bird said.
“They must propose solutions because they hold the reins of power and are responsible for managing the country’s financial resources, among other obligations.”
Bird concluded his remarks by urging the Marape administration to relinquish power and allow another party to navigate the existing challenges.
‘Time to hand over control’
“It’s time to hand over control and let someone else guide us out of the quagmire we find ourselves in,” he said.
The opposition’s unwavering confidence and determination signify a significant shift in the political landscape.
“With numerous outstanding issues at the forefront and an expanding support base within Parliament, the battle for leadership in the country is poised to intensify in the weeks ahead,” he said.
Gorethy Kenneth is a senior PNG Post-Courier journalist. Republished with permission.
This post was originally published on Asia Pacific Report.
