GOVERNMENT RESHUFFLE SEES LING-STUCKEY MOVED FROM TREASURY

After 7 long years of being in control of the Government’s books Prime Minister James Marape has decided to end Treasurer Ian Ling-Stuckey’s tenure and move on to new beginings with newly appointed Joseph Lelang to assume the role.

The Prime Minister announced a ministerial reshuffle today, stating that the changes followed consultations with both ministers and careful consideration of the Government’s priorities as they prepare for the 2027 National Budget and approaches the 2027 National General Election.

Prime Minister Marape said Mr Ling-Stuckey’s move to the Ministry for Rural and Development was intended to relieve him of the intense pressures of Treasury while retaining his considerable economic expertise within Cabinet.

In his new portfolio, Mr Ling-Stuckey will focus on economic modelling, price control considerations, the National Economic and Fiscal Commission, labour mobility programmes and rural development strategies.

He paid special tribute to outgoing Treasurer Ling-Stuckey, describing him as one of the hardest-working ministers in his Cabinet who had served the country very well since his appointment in 2019.

“Ian Ling-Stuckey has served very well as Treasurer over the past seven years. He has carried an enormous responsibility on behalf of the entire Government, often at considerable personal cost to his health, family and electorate,” Prime Minister Marape said.

“I commend his character, dedication and strong leadership, and sincerely thank his family and the people of Kavieng for allowing him to carry this national responsibility.”

Prime Minister Marape recalled that when he appointed Mr Ling-Stuckey Treasurer in 2019.