Joseph Lelang appointed as Minister for Rural and Economic Development

Former Opposition Leader Joseph Lelang is the Minister for Rural and Economic development, a new ministry created under the Marape-Rosso government.

Mr Lelang was officially sworn into office by Governor General Sir Bob Dadae at Government House today.

Prime Minister James Marape including cabinet ministers, Timothy Masiu, Joseph Sungi and Richard Masere were also at Government House to witness the appointment of Mr Lelang into office.

Other notable MP's included, Kavieng's Ian Ling-Stuckey and West New Britain Provincial Member, Sasindran Muthuvel.

Joseph Lelang since entering parliament in 2012 has stood firm in the Opposition bench for almost 15 years until his switch to government last month.

"When you were Opposition Leader, you spoke with constructive criticism to hold the accountable and I commend you for your great leadership", Prime Minister James Marape said.

"Walking across the high position on the floor of parliament as the Opposition Leader, we the 58-member caucus in the Pangu Pati are grateful to take you on".

With the creation of the Rural and Economic Development Ministry, this brings the total number of Ministry's in the Marape-Rosso government to 36.