Usino-Bundi MP Vincent Kumura and Porgera-Paiela MP Gideon Maso Karipe were sworn in last Thursday, September 17, at the Government House in Port Moresby as vice ministers in the Marape-Rosso Government ministerial line-up.
The two MPs took their oaths of office before the head of State Sir Bob Dadae.
Prime Minister James Marape with other senior political figures witnessed the officiating ceremony.
Related news: https://news.pngfacts.com/2026/09/png-marape-government-makes-fresh.html
Kumura has been appointed Vice Minister Assisting the Prime Minister, while Karipe will serve as Vice Minister for Petroleum.
Speaking to local media after the ceremony, Prime Minister Marape said the appointments were made despite only seven months remaining until the 2027 General Elections, with the two MPs appointed to fill portfolio vacancies in his government.
He also stated that their appointments reflected that this government is committed, in line with the Pangu-led Government policy in the 2022 Election, to developing the next generation of leaders.
“They are both first-team members of the Parliament, and so we appointed them to give more strength, energy and power so that they can learn and build the confidence in the ministry space, so that in the next 10–20 years, this nation belongs to them,” PM Marape said.
Prime Minister Marape reminded the two newly appointed vice ministers to take their roles seriously, saying the positions are a breeding ground for preparing them to become ministers one day.
He said the vice-ministerial roles provide an opportunity for emerging leaders to gain experience in government, understand their respective portfolios and work closely with senior ministers.
For Kumura, the new role will involve supporting the Prime Minister’s responsibilities, while Karipe will take on responsibilities in the petroleum sector, which remains an important part of Papua New Guinea’s resource industry.
The appointments also place additional national responsibilities on the two MPs as they continue to represent the people of Usino-Bundi and Porgera-Paiela in Parliament.
PM Marape urged the new vice ministers to use the opportunity to learn, contribute and prepare themselves for greater responsibilities in government.