Member for Kavieng, Ian Ling-Stuckey, was sworn in this morning as the new Minister for Treasury.
This was witnessed by other cabinet ministers, members of parliament, and Prime Minister James Marape.Mr Marape says the rearrangement processes will create an opening for all leaders of the country to work together and to achieve a common goal.
Prime Minister Marape says Ling-Stuckey’s appointment will create opportunity for bold and likeminded leaders who can genuinely contribute to advancing the country.
Ling-Stuckey, who had initially been part of the opposition, says a strong team of advisors are being assembled as the country’s economic situation is in stagnation.
And in a further shift of consolidation, other members of the opposition have crossed the floor. Joining the government are six members of the opposition, Gary Juffa, Allan Bird, Sir Mekere Morauta, Walter Schnaubelt, William Nakin, and Timothy Masiu.
For Prime Minister Marape, he says he is looking forward to working closely with cabinet ministers in their various portfolios for the good of the country.
Ling-Stuckey has assured Government that as of today it is work in progress as he looks forward to working on the myriad economic problems being faced. During the swearing in, Prime Minister Marape also announced the decommissioning of former National Planning Minister Richard Maru, who is now replaced by Sam Basil.
Member for Namatanai and Secretary General for the opposition, Walter Schnaubelt, says the aim of this transition into government is for the country’s interest in terms of moving forward.
Mr Marape meanwhile, says the change of government is just part of the cleaning up process and follows on in how the government intends to take the country into this year’s independence the 2020 and beyond. Saying also, that in the interest of the government, more changes will emerge, as government leaders continue to work together for the betterment of the country.
By Godwin Eki, EMTV News, Port Moresby
