JUNE 6, 2023
The ruling Pangu Pati, led by Prime Minister Hon. James Marape, has achieved a significant milestone as Morobe Governor Hon. Luther Wenge joins the party today (Tuesday, June 6, 2023).
Governor Wenge’s decision to leave the People’s Labour Party and join Pangu adds to the party’s ranks, bringing the total number of Pangu MPs to 53. Last month, Pomio MP Hon. Elias Kapavore also joined Pangu from Peter O’Neill’s People’s National Congress. Prime Minister Marape commended both Governor Wenge and MP Kapavore for their integrity.
This increase in membership comes after Pangu won 39 seats in the 2022 National General Election, for which Prime Minister Marape expressed his gratitude during a press conference at Parliament today.
Prime Minister Marape emphasised Pangu’s strong roots in Morobe, making Governor Wenge’s decision to join the party fitting and timely. He highlighted that Pangu, as the pioneer party of Papua New Guinea, advocates for greater economic development and a fairer share of resources, such as the Wafi-Golpu Mine in Morobe.
“We have successfully renegotiated the terms of the Wafi-Golpu agreement, securing an additional K6 billion compared to the 2018 agreement signed by the previous government,” PM Marape stated.
“This demonstrates our commitment to developing the country by focusing on revenue generation rather than excessive borrowing.”
He further outlined Pangu’s agenda, which includes maximising returns from major resource projects like Wafi-Golpu, Porgera, Papua LNG, and P’nyang. Additionally, the party is advancing initiatives such as SME lending, tax relief for low-income earners, education, Connect PNG, and economic recovery efforts.
“I want to assure the people of Papua New Guinea that Pangu, with 53 MPs, remains strong today. With support from our coalition partners, this government is stronger than ever,” the Prime Minister assured.
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