Power to suspend not with NEC: PM

Prime Minister Peter O’Neill has clarified that the Cabinet or NEC does not have the power to suspend any provincial government.

He said this is a parliamentary decision.  

The Prime Minister’s clarification comes after demands from William Powi’s supporters to uplift the suspension of the Southern Highlands Provincial Government.

Following reports of the suspension, angry supporters aggressively showed their disapproval by marching through Nipa with weapons and placards, demanding for the PM to lift it. 

But it seems there has been a misunderstanding as Prime Minister O’Neill said NEC does not have that power.

He said the report in the newspaper was pre-emptive, meaning they were anticipating the move to suspend the Southern Highlands Provincial Government.

He reiterates that only the parliament can make that decision and not NEC or the cabinet.

He said they are talking with all disputing parties to put people’s interest ahead of their politics and return normal services to the province and bring those who were involved in the criminal actions to justice.

O’Neill further said the State of Emergency continues from the emergency for the earthquake disaster.

(Filepic of PM O’Neill)

Author: 
Charmaine Poriambep