Public opinion in Yangoru Saussia Electorate of East Sepik is divided in returning current MP, Richard Maru to a second term in Parliament.
Maru is the Minister for Trade, Commerce and Industry and a member of the People’s Congress Party (PNC).
PNC is the major coalition party in the O’Neill- Dion government with over 60 sitting MPs.
Below is a Voxpop carried out by Loop PNG.
Fisause Kennedy says the issues surrounding the land acquired by the National Government to develop the Sepik Economic Zone project will affect the MPs chances of securing many votes in Yekembolie, Haripmo, Kainimbu, Maringhie, Hagama villagers in the East Yangoru LLG.
David Menjawi said “observation is that if he can get first preferences to reach 50 per cent plus 1 vote to be declared the winner. Otherwise, he will struggle from the second and third preferences.”
Gerry Yapasi said, “He will win. But we people urge him to leave PNC and become party leader of another party. He has the leadership quality/potential to attract MPs to him and become Prime Minister. “
Robin Kilembe said, “His greatest disadvantages include PNC party and land grabbing issues, if he should win it won't come easily.”
Gilbert Waghuaio Hamambi, said “milestone achievement of Richard Maru on the political front is that he has raised the bar so high that only 15 candidates feel confident to offer alternate leadership that can surpass the benchmark set.”
Gregory P Moses said, “Firstly Yangoru Saussia is known for fielding many candidates in past elections but it had been greatly reduced to 16 in this election.
“So to me, he has a big chance of retaining his seat. I personally have my reservations with the political party he is a member to.”
Meanwhile, Maru is confident his constituency will give him the mandate to return.
Maru in an interview with Loop PNG said he had done more compared to past Yangoru – Saussia Members of Parliament.
“I think, I have a very good chance to return, the people have seen transformation (infrastructures and services delivery) not seen in the last 40 years.
“Last Thursday at my own home, people of Yangoru – Saussia walked up and gave K100, 000 in cash, contributed to fund my election.
“That is a clear indication that the people are right behind me.
“I have the support right across the entire four LLGs, I did not have the support in my last election (2012), that I must say,” Maru told Loop PNG.
He also urged voters to support PNC party.
“There is no strong party that will compete against PNC in this coming election, and I have no doubt PNC will win,” Maru said.
“And it’s important for Yangoru – Saussia that they support a PNC candidate, because PNC will form government and we must be in the government again with the ruling party.
“Because that is the only way, I can assure that they will see more services delivered in the next 5 years.”