MINISTERS DECOMMISSIONED DUE TO MEDICAL CONDITIONS AND CABINET ATTENDANCE

INLIGHT of recent government reshuffle, Prime Minister James Marape confirmed yesterday that the change in cabinet follows the decommissioning of 6 state ministers due to medical and health conditions.

The Prime Minister in thanking the ministers for their utmost best in performing under respective ministry portfolio, announced the release of Labour Minister and Raicos MP Hon. Kessy Sawang, Information and Communications Technology Minister and Member for South Bougainville Hon. Timothy Masiu, Hon. Lukas Dekena, Education Minister and Gumine MP on medical conditions together with Hon. Seki Agisa Minister for Livestock and South Fly MP, Hon. Joe Kuli, Joe Kuli Minister Correctional Service and Simo Kilepa Minister Environment, Conservation & Climate Change.

Prime Minister Marape said it is not easy to make such decisions in decommissioning ministers adding that the MPs tried their utmost best in performing in their respective ministries however circumstances warrant them that they be replaced.

PM Marape specially thanked outgoing Labour Minister Kessy Sawang and the people of Raicost stating Hon Sawang is one of the best Ministers, and considering her health status she is relieved from cabinet to concentrate on her health.

He also shared the same sentiment to other outgoing ministers.

Marape explained that government leadership requires ministers who are physically able to carry out their duties. The reshuffle shows the Prime Minister call to actively deliver their commitment to the country before the election in 2027 which is 8 months away.

Other new ministerial appointments also saw former opposition Leader Douglas Tomuriesa assuming the role as Minister for Civil Aviation, replacing Wake Goi, who moves to become Minister for Commerce.

John Kaupa as Minister for Environment, Conservation and Climate Change, replacing Simo Kilepa.

Agena Ganai becomes Minister for Livestock, replacing Seki Agisa.