Yama makes final bid for Usino-Bundi seat

Veteran Madang politician and founder of the People’s Labour Party [PLP], Peter Yama, has announced that this will be his final attempt to contest the Usino-Bundi seat.

Speaking to a large crowd at a campaign rally in Ramu Sugar Township on Friday afternoon, Yama said he is contesting the upcoming by-election because the country is in dire need of experienced and mature leadership.

“This country needs people like me [leaders with experience]. Not small boys who will be dictated by one or two people,” Yama declared.

Arriving dramatically in a chartered helicopter, Yama was greeted by cheering supporters and carried to the grandstand on a traditional cane chair hoisted by local youths.

Yama, who first served as Usino-Bundi MP from 2002 to 2007 after forming his own political party, said the short time remaining before the 2027 general election is not enough for a newcomer to make an impact.

He said Usino-Bundi cannot afford a new face right now, but needs someone who knows the system and can deliver in the limited time left.

He also pointed out that since the death of the late MP Jimmy Uguro, the electorate has not been receiving its District Services Improvement Program [DSIP] funds, causing development delays.

Yama has served three terms in Parliament as Member for Sumkar, Usino-Bundi, and most recently as Governor of Madang Province in the 10th Parliament.

He said this by-election campaign would be his final bid for the Usino-Bundi seat.