PNG Opposition Numbers Swell, Move motions in its favour

Papua New Guinea is  now through a political stalemate following a dramatic turn of developments in Parliament this morning.

And the government has now gone into a damage control mode as Prime Minister James Marape attempts to address what political observers describe as a looming potential constitutional crisis.

Government benches empty as Ministers and MPs join Opposition..Photo EMTV

Mr. Marape is yet to release an official statement regarding this latest turn of events while the actual numbers on both sides of the house resulting from the movements this morning are yet to be ascertained.

Deputy Prime Minister, Sam Basil is among those who crossed the floor this morning, as the Prime Minister's 18 months grace period in office lapses on the 30th of this month.

Others that have crossed include Health Minister, Sir Puka Temu, Labour and Industrial Relations Minister, Lekwa Gure, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Trade and leader of the National Alliance Party, Patrick Pruaitch, Minister for Immigration and Border Security, Wesley Nukundj and Alotau MP Charles Abel.

Sir Puka was seen sitting next to Deputy Opposition Leader Dr. Allan Marat.

This latest twist in developments come after Prime Minister James Marape said last month that he's confident he has the numbers to defeat any motion of no confidence against him and his coalition government.

OPPOSITION USES NUMBERS IN PARLIAMENT TO MOVE TWO MOTIONS IN IT'S FAVOUR

The Opposition as a result of its gain in numbers used the opportunity to outmuscle the government in moving at least two successful motions.

The first was to change the membership of the Parliamentary Private Business Committee which also deals with votes of no confidence and successfully moving to adjourn Parliament to December 1st, which will now provide the window for the Opposition to introduce and move the vote of no confidence against the Prime Minister.

The Opposition at this time is also yet to release official statements relating to this latest turn in political developments.

Clerk of Parliament Kala Aufa has confirmed with NBC News just a while ago that the move by the Opposition to adjourn Parliament is in order and according to Standing Order 151 of Parliament.

Source: NBC News / PNG Today

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