PM MARAPE WELCOMES “OUR PATI” TO GOVT.

Prime Minister James Marape has officially announced the return of 14 members of the Opposition, led by Member for Finschhafen, Rainbo Paita, welcoming them back into his Marape-Rosso Pangu-led coalition government.

In his statement, Prime Minister Marape commended Mr. Paita and the members of OUR Pati for their decision to form their own political party and emphasized their constitutional rights in choosing to rejoin the government. He highlighted his government’s commitment to embracing diverse opinions.

“Firstly, I commend them for making a choice that is based on their constitutional freedom under Section 45 (Freedom of Conscience and Thought) and Section 47 (Freedom of Assembly and Association), which they further exercised in organizing themselves into a political party,” said Marape.

The Prime Minister acknowledged the instability that has permeated the political system over the past year, affecting the Public Service. However, he reaffirmed that the Marape-Rosso Government is committed to being a government for all.

“Pangu Pati is the party that formed this country, and we are tolerant of the diversity of opinions; we are tolerant toward leaders from all parts of our country,” he stated. “We must embrace divergence of opinion and views.”

With the 50th Independence anniversary approaching in less than 12 months, Marape noted the mounting pressure to implement reforms in political and public service structures, provincial government systems, the judiciary, and resource laws as the country prepares for the next 50-year chapter.

“These are the works we have started since 2019, and Honourable Paita has been part of this journey. I am humbled by his gesture in laying aside personal interests and ambitions to prioritize the common good of the country.”

Rather than opposing from the outside, Marape highlighted that Paita has chosen to bring his party into association with the Pangu Pati-led coalition. “Most of these Members of Parliament are first-term or second-term MPs who want to get things done for their constituents. In their heart of hearts, they mean well.”

Marape acknowledged that while these MPs had previously moved due to policy differences, the need for consolidation to provide stability ahead of the 50th anniversary has prompted their return.

“On behalf of Pangu Pati, as the leading coalition party, I welcome him and his party members back to Government,” he concluded.

The Prime Minister indicated that he would be meeting with Pangu Pati leaders and coalition party leaders to process this announcement at the earliest opportunity after the Sabbath this weekend.