The People's Democratic Movement in Papua New Guinea has elected Sir Mekere Morauta as its leader - only days after he stepped down to improve the party's chances of winning the prime ministership.
The move failed and Sir Michael Somare was elected as prime minister last week by all MPs except the PDM members who boycotted the vote.
The PDM has now also decided to dump the party founder, Paias Wingti, who returned to parliament in last month's election after a five-year absence.
The party has decided to change its name to National Development Party which has left Mr Wingti as an independent member of parliament.
The opposition caucus has also elected Sir Mekere as the opposition leader.
Observers say the change may be in breach of the legislation banning party hopping.
