Prime Minister, James Marape has welcomed Dei MP-elect Desmond Paul Kipa, following a courtesy call to his office and the Member’s decision to align with the Government caucus as an independent.
Prime Minister Marape said he was pleased to formally welcome Hon. Kipa to Government, noting that the newly elected Member had paid respect and made a courtesy call shortly after his declaration as MP following the Dei Open by-election.
“Hon. Kipa remains an independent Member, and he has indicated that he will return to his electorate to consult with his people and inform them of his decision to work with the Government,” Prime Minister Marape said in a statement.
“I welcome him to our government caucus and look forward to working with him in the national interest.” Related News: (https://www.postcourier.com.pg/prime-minister-marape-welcomes-mr-desmond-paul-kipa-mp-to-government-caucus2/)
The Prime Minister acknowledged that the Dei Open electorate has lost valuable time due to the vacancy of the seat but assured that the Government stands ready to support Hon. Kipa to recover lost ground and deliver tangible outcomes for his people in the remaining period before the 2027 General Election.
“Our government will work closely with him to ensure that services and development reach the people of Dei,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“We stand ready to assist wherever possible so that his leadership delivers results for his electorate during the time left in this parliamentary term.”
Prime Minister Marape also commended Hon. Kipa as a young, educated and qualified Papua New Guinean leader, noting the resilience he demonstrated in securing victory in a tightly contested by-election.
“He came through a challenging electoral process, but his success reflects strong popularity and broad-based preferential support across his electorate,” the Prime Minister said.
“That is an important attribute, and I welcome him to the Government caucus.” Related news: (https://www.thepngsun.com/dei-polling-deferred-to-wednesday-new-ireland-goes-to-poll-today-vagi/)
Prime Minister Marape said he looks forward to Hon. Kipa’s contribution to Government deliberations and to a constructive partnership that advances development priorities for Dei Open and contributes to national progress.