BOTH Members of the Opposition and Government are gearing up for another Vote of No Confidence (VoNC) showdown, as Opposition lawmakers plan to launch another No-Confidence motion against Prime Minister James Marape.
Parliament will resume next week Tuesday at 2pm and all eyes are on Parliament for what promises to be a pivotal week.
Prime Minister James Marape’s government has faced intense scrutiny following the tragic “Black Wednesday” riots in January, along with ongoing economic challenges such as high youth unemployment, fuel shortages, and rising living costs.
The defection of key figures, led by former Finance Minister, Hon. Rainbo Paita, has further weakened Marape’s parliamentary majority.
As the VoNC approaches, the question is whether the current government can navigate these crises or if the Opposition’s push for change will succeed.
In response to the Opposition’s planned no-confidence-vote, Marape welcomed the challenge in a statement last month.
He urged the Opposition to ensure proper completion of the VoNC form before it is submitted to the Parliamentary Private Business Committee (PBC).
“We welcome the challenge by the Opposition. Our Constitution provides for a VoNC, and the Opposition is welcome to move one. The prime ministership is not my birthright,” Marape said.
He highlighted his government’s record over the past five challenging years, asserting, “We have managed the economy over the last five tough years, and everyone knows our record.”
Marape also stressed the importance of the upcoming parliamentary proceedings, noting that MPs will assess the leadership capabilities of potential alternative prime ministers.
Meanwhile, the Opposition remains optimistic, presenting a united front free from internal conflicts or egos, with a clear goal to overhaul the government.
They (Opposition MPs) have now moved to Loloata Island outside Port Moresby to solidify their numbers, in preparation for next week’s parliament sitting.
