PMJM maintains he will not resign

Prime Minister James Marape maintains he will not resign despite the recent defection of Pangu members and govt members to the Opposition.

In a statement on Sunday afternoon, Mr Marape says any change in leadership must be done through the vote of no - confidence motion.

As of today [Sunday], Pangu has 41 MPs, and together with coalition partners, Mr Marape is confident of meeting the required 56 MPs to remain in government.

He says coalition partners including United Resources Party, Social Democratic Party, People's Party, People's First Party, People's Movement for Change, Melanesia Liberal front, and Melanesia Alliance remain intact.

The Prime Minister has appealed to citizens and businesses to maintain their normal routine.