Job Pomat

Parliament totems to be reinstated

Speaker of the National Parliament, Job Pomat has announced that his office is working with the National Musuem to have the artifacts back on display in Parliament.

The totems and artifacts were removed between November and December 2013 by the former Speaker Theo Zurenouc, a move that divided the nation in terms of people’s opinion.

It was challenged at the national court by Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, and the court ruled for them to be re-instated within six months.

However, this was further appealed at the Supreme Court.

All previous COIs will be tabled: Speaker

He said COIs have been collecting dust without implementing the recommendations; which is a waste of time and money.

Pomat was responding to questions by TVWan News on COIs, which was brought up by Madang Governor Peter Yama during the last parliament session.

Yama asked the question after the issue of COI into the controversial Manumanu land deal resurfaced in Parliament.

Pomat reiterated that all the previous COIs will be tabled as they are public information.

Petition challenging Pomat’s win dismissed

Pomat made these comments on Wednesday after the election petition that was filed against him by Wep Kanawi was withdrawn in the Court of Disputed Returns.

He filed the petition based on the grounds of errors and omissions made during the counting period by the Electoral Commission.

The matter went to court on Wednesday for pre-trial conference, to check compliance to directions that were issued on September 20.

However lawyer for the petitioner, Kanawi, asked the court to withdraw the proceeding.

VIDEO: Speaker accused of being biased

The speaker was criticized in a point of order from Madang MP Bryan Kramer and East Sepik Governor Allan Bird. 

 

Freddy Mou with more 

 

 

Pomat sworn in

Pomat was received by Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae at the State House. He was accompanied by Chief of Protocol, Morea Veratau, Clerk of Parliament and Sergeant at Arms.

Also present was Gulf Regional Governor Chris Haiveta, and Manus Governor Charlie Benjamin.

Following the formalities, Pomat was adorned with the attire of the Speaker before a toast was held.

Pomat is currently returning to Parliament where a prime minister will be voted.

Pomat is new speaker

With 106 MPs in the House, Pomat collected 60 to be declared as Speaker of Parliament.

Rabaul MP Dr Allan Marat, who was also nominated for the Speaker's post, collected 46 votes.

Ialibu-Pangia MP, Peter O'Neill, thanked Pomat for his appointment and pledged to work with him for the next five years.

Governor for Manus Charlie Benjamin also commended Pomat for his appointment.

Parliament has now been suspended as the Speaker-elect will go the Government House for his swearing-in.