1Berita News – The Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, James Marape, has announced plans to overhaul the cabinet following demonstrations that escalated into riots and looting in the neighboring country on January 10.
The overhaul aims to address concerns about the economy and the functioning of key state institutions, with a focus on central government agencies and supporting ministries.
PM Marape emphasized the need to review vital ministries like Finance and Planning. Additionally, he plans to meet with business leaders in Port Moresby to discuss the impact of the recent unrest on businesses and explore ways to aid their recovery.
The Prime Minister declared a 14-day national emergency on October 11, responding to demonstrations and violence that resulted in 16 deaths in the capital, Port Moresby. The protests were triggered by discrepancies in the payment of Civil Servants’ salaries, causing police officers, prison staff, and civil servants to go on strike and demonstrate outside the parliament building.
Opposition leader Joseph Lelang attributed the unrest to public dissatisfaction due to high living costs and unemployment in the capital. Some voices, including former parliament member James Nomane, called for PM Marape’s resignation, blaming the crisis on a combination of public service discontent and economic management errors.
PM Marape publicly apologized for the systemic error that impacted all government-paid employees, assuring that the salary shortfall would be compensated in the next payment cycle.
The government also expressed commitment to collaborating with the National Capital District Commission for the recovery and revitalization of Port Moresby.
