Has the time arrived when a no confidence vote might succeed?

By Paul Oates

Very unlikely unless the Opposition uses the same tactics as the so called government to achieve a majority vote. If sufficient enticement is on offer from Sir Mekere, wouldn't that ensure the same sort of regime might exit after a successful 'No Confidence' vote?

Given the precedence and ability of the Speaker, (who under PNG's Constitution can step into the Governor General's shoes at anytime the present GG is out of the country or is bypassed), to manipulate the Parliament so that the government can't lose a vote, what chance is there for any change of direction?

The second dilemma facing the Opposition is one of the old adage: "If you can't beat 'em, join 'em." If the bride price, sorry, bribe price of compliance last time was K2m per member and the price this time is a reported, possible Ministry, what can the Opposition offer in return? Schools, hospitals, and essential services that are properly funded and working to help the ordinary people? What's the other choice for 'ordinary' members? Personal wealth, prestige and a chance to buy your own re election?

If the Opposition does learn for its past mistakes and does present a united front, will it be allowed to participate in a parliamentary vote anyway? Parliament can merely be adjourned (some may say summarily dismissed), again without a vote being recorded. There are historical precedences for that to: Just refer back a few hundred years to Oliver Cromwell.

PNG's PM has just returned from a golf day in Fiji and has sought to unite Melanesian support and solidarity by saying that Fiji is really OK and it's Australia and New Zealand (and the Commonwealth etc.) that are wrong in decrying Fiji's military coup. Now it doesn't take the proverbial 'Blind Freddy' to make a quantum leap and suggest the continuance of power at ANY cost might be on Sir Michael's mind.

The self confessed River god was 'cock a hoop' the last time he manipulated (he reportedly called it tricked), parliamentary rule to suit himself and his cartel. Let's not forget the Moti Inquiry and all the rest of the corruption even Sir Michael now admits goes on in PNG. It will take a loyal police force to ensure any 'critical mass' will not have a chance of developing.

Just look at what happened with the latest Police ban of the Salvation Army's march and prayer initiative. What a good thing the Police Force have all just received a large pay rise isn't it? Pity about the rest of PNG workers though. Oh PNG, how is it that it all has come to this? You had so much promise of better things for your people at Independence.

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