National Alliance leader

“Aspects of the settlement may not be fully in line with the spirit and letter of original government plans, but it is heartening that decade-old issues can finally be put to rest so policymakers can concentrate on future growth and prosperity,” Mr Pruaitch said.

He said when late Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare laid ground rules for negotiation of the PNG LNG Project, foremost among these was his determination not to sell down the PNG government’s project equity, he had the national interest at heart.

It was a show of solidarity, as the National Alliance Leader, Pruaitch was accompanied by the father of the nation, Sir Michael Somare, yesterday (September 5) in court.

A tribunal, appointed in February 2010 over allegations of misconduct in office, resumed yesterday morning where preliminary issues were raised before members of the tribunal by Pruaitch’s lawyer, Greg Sheppard.

Issues relating to the jurisdiction of the tribunal were raised as well as certain documents that will be used during the hearing.

Pruaitch will be vying to return for his third consecutive term as the local MP for Aitape – Lumi District.   

The other unconfirmed names of  candidates are; Godfried Solmu, Canisius Kapu, John Ramoi, Job Tulipi, Andrew Oboi, Jerry Manyir, Zachery Miroi, Samson Kupu, Eddy Saweni, Leo Wamo, Solwai Emmanuel Mambei, Harry Rainald, Camillus Wulal, Paul Saroya, Philemon Tamari, John Awei Yemi, Chris Kati Kanako, and Brian Simbe.  

The  eight weeks of campaign will end on June 23, followed by 14 days of polling nationwide.