Sir John Pundari takes over Police in cabinet shake-up

Prime Minister James Marape has reshuffled his Cabinet, appointing Kompiam–Ambum MP Sir John Pundari as the new Minister for Police, as the government moves to stabilise key portfolios left vacant by deaths and political resignations.

Sir John replaces Peter Tsiamailili Jnr, who has been reassigned to head the Works and Highways Ministry, a portfolio left vacant following the death of Telefomin MP and Works Minister Solan Mirisim in December last year.

The Cabinet changes also see Menyamya MP Solen Loifa appointed Minister for Mining, filling the vacancy created by the resignation of Our Pati Leader and Morobe MP Rainbo Paita. Paita stepped down late last year to contest the vacant Morobe Governor’s seat.

The Morobe governorship became vacant following the passing of Governor Luther Wenge on the eve of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary.

Meanwhile, Tewai Siassi MP Dr Kobby Bomareo has been reappointed as Minister for Housing and Urbanisation, after previously resigning from the post to contest the Morobe governorship. Dr Bomareo was unsuccessful in securing enough support, paving the way for his return to Cabinet.