The PNG National Party is proposing to make retired East Sepik Governor, Sir Michael Somare, a nominated Member of Parliament.
“He will not be responsible for an electorate but he will be on the floor of parliament to be a mentor to all of us,” said Kerenga Kua, National Party parliamentary leader.
Sir Michael, who is Papua New Guinea’s first prime minister, retired from active politics after 49 consecutive years of serving his East Sepik people.
“I want to pay tribute to him, his wife, family and people of East Sepik for the wisdom of putting up this man,” Kua said.
He stated that the farewell orchestrated by the ruling party (People’s National Congress) on the floor of parliament last week was disrespectful.
“I am disappointed with the farewell of Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare,” Kua said.
“The original plan which I was present in the office of the speaker, in the presence of Finance Minister James Marape, and Minister for National Events Justin Tkatchenko, was agreed that all the ceremony will take place on Thursday, with a military parade, singsing groups, followed by a Parliament sitting.
“All of a sudden, Parliament was adjourned on Tuesday (after) farewelling him.
“For National Party, the issue remains open, if we have the privilege of forming the Government, we will reactivate and have a proper ceremonial send off.”
Last Tuesday, the 9th Parliament sat for its final sitting before adjourning the house for the 2017 National Elections.
The only business of the day were speeches by Sir Michael, Prime Minister Peter O’Neill, Opposition Leader Don Polye and Speaker Theo Zurenuoc.
(Sir Michael Somare giving his farewell speech in Parliament last week)