Marape’s ‘mystery’ cabinet: three sworn in, portfolios kept under wraps

Prime Minister James Marape has expanded his cabinet, swearing in three new Ministers of State, who for the next 24 hours, will hold no official portfolios.

The Marape-Rosso Government tightened its grip on coalition loyalty Tuesday afternoon as Governor General Sir Bob Dadae facilitated a swift swearing-in ceremony at Government House. The new inductees include Kompiam-Ambum MP Sir John Pundari, Menyamya MP Solen Loifa, and Tewai-Siassi MP Dr. Kobby Bomareo.

While the ceremony was conducted with the usual State House pomp, the Prime Minister remained tight-lipped on exactly what these men will be doing. In a rare act first, assign later maneuver, Marape confirmed that the specific ministerial responsibilities for the trio will not be revealed until 9:00 AM tomorrow, just ahead of the National Executive Council [NEC] meeting.

Marape said reviews will be done before portfolios are finalized, suggesting a looming reshuffle that could see existing ministers moved or demoted to make room for the new arrivals.

The appointments signal a significant win for the Morobe wing of the coalition. With the inclusion of Loifa from Our Pati and Dr. Bomareo, the Prime Minister is visibly fortifying his alliance with Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso’s regional power base.

The veteran presence of Sir John Pundari also adds significant political weight to the cabinet, though it remains to be seen which high-stakes department he will be tapped to lead.

The Prime Minister defended the mid-term expansion, maintaining that the changes are part of a broader strategy to ensure the government is delivering on its promises.

Marape said his government will continue to serve and ensure Ministers are performing their roles as expected.

As the country waits for tomorrow’s 9:00 AM announcement, the question remains: which current ministers are about to lose their seats at the table to make room for the new trio?