Nomane, Iduhu, Puka and O'Neil challenge the legality of a minister “stepping aside”

A heated exchange unfolds in Papua New Guinea’s Parliament as Opposition Leader James Nomane questions Prime Minister James Marape over the ongoing PNG Defence Force recruitment scandal and the temporary stepping aside of Defence Minister Dr. Billy Joseph. James Nomane raises concerns about governance, accountability, and possible conflict of interest involving the Defence Secretary, while asking who currently controls the Defence portfolio during the investigation period. Prime Minister Marape confirms that he has temporarily assumed responsibility for the Defence portfolio while investigations continue into events surrounding Murray Barracks recruitment processes. The debate intensifies after Deputy Opposition Leader Keith Iduhu, Sir Puka Temu, and former Prime Minister Peter O’Neill challenge the legality of a minister “stepping aside” while still retaining other ministerial portfolios. Prime Minister Marape defends the arrangement, explaining the distinction between ministries and portfolios under government administration. The Prime Minister also rejects allegations of nepotism involving the Defence Secretary and states that the investigation will determine whether senior officials, including the Defence Minister, Defence Secretary, or Defence Commander, had any involvement in alleged recruitment irregularities. Key topics discussed include: • PNG Defence Force recruitment scandal • James Marape assumes Defence portfolio • Billy Joseph steps aside controversy • James Nomane questions government • Keith Iduhu legal concerns • Sir Puka Temu parliamentary challenge • Peter O’Neill criticism of government • Murray Barracks investigation • Conflict of interest allegations • PNG Parliament political debate Prime Minister Marape assures Parliament that the investigation report will be made public once completed and says those responsible for any wrongdoing will face due legal process. Watch the full parliamentary debate and hear the latest developments surrounding one of Papua New Guinea’s biggest political and defence controversies. Subscribe for more PNG Parliament updates, political debates, and breaking national news.