A key member of Papua New Guinea's governing coalition, the National Alliance, has increased its number of MPs after more defections from the Opposition.
After initially emerging from the last general election in 2012 with 8 MPs, the National Alliance now has 13 in the 111-seat Parliament.
This makes it the second biggest party after the People's National Congress.
Photo: RNZ / Johnny Blades
Patrick Pruaitch says the NA is an attractive grouping for MPs to join because of its experience in economic stewardship and the stability it can provide to Government.
"After the defection of two members from the opposition to the National Alliance party, and that is a number that consolidates our party in the current coalition government headed by Prime Minister Peter O'Neill."
Patrick Pruaitch
