EAST Sepik Governor, Allen Bird, in a statement today has dismissed any public perception that he deliberatively did not accompany the Opposition team to the highlands tour last week.
He points to the government’s supporters, in particular, who may have misconceived his (Bird’s) commitment and support towards the Opposition, after he was not seen moving around together with the team.
“I notice that the government’s supporters are making a big deal of the fact I didn’t accompany the Opposition team to the highlands,” Governor Bird said.
“Just because I did not accompany the team to the highlands last week doesn’t mean I don’t support the team,” he said.
The Governor described this level of perceptive as: “Government’s propaganda machine on overdrive”.
Governor Bird further highlights why he does not normally want to partake in trips, not only with the Opposition but also with the Government.
“When I was in government for 5 years, I didn’t join Prime Minister James Marape or any large government delegation on any overseas trips.
“Not once, but I did take part on missions where I felt I could make a substantial contribution.
“My rule is that if it’s not necessary for me to travel, I won’t,” he stated.
“The Opposition team who travelled are very capable, my presence was not necessary, and I think they did a tremendous job.
“I have always been happy to shun the limelight and contribute my little bit when there is a gap.
“If there are no gaps, I prefer not to be in front or leading the pack. I prefer to be in the back bench providing back stopping and direction.”
“I have seen this government close up for 5 years and I am convinced that we must change direction,” Governor Bird expressed.
“PNG needs a different pathway to the one we are currently on.
“We have no guarantee that PM Marape will change direction; we have no guarantee that another Prime Minister will change our current trajectory.
“But if we don’t change, we will never know.
“I predict that unless we change course now and get a decent leader in charge, it will take us another 25 years before things improve in PNG.
“I don’t think I will still be alive in 25 years’ time.
“So, I remain committed to a change in the Prime Minister, and I will support any viable replacement because a new path is better than the one, we are now on.
“My commitment to the Opposition is unwavering, no money, no position or threat will change my mind.
“Whether I am in the front or the Opposition back bench, my position will not change.
“My position is based on the trajectory of the country. It is not based on who I like or dislike.”
