15 Aug 2012

New PNG Speaker Zurenouc welcomed by TI

5:22 pm on 15 August 2012

Transparency International PNG says there is widespread support for the Speaker of Parliament, Theo Zurenouc, after his promises to restore confidence in the Office, and to open parliament to the people.

TI says, given the controversial behaviour of the previous Speaker, it hopes that Mr Zurenouc will perform his duties diligently and fairly and ensure national issues are properly debated.

Mr Zurenouc says he intends to restore Parliament's administrative capacity so it can provide adequate facilities to all MPs.

The watchdog group says this would greatly help restore the public's confidence in the parliamentary process and help re-build trust in political leaders.

TI also recommends that Mr Zurenouc order an audit into parliamentary finances as a prudent step to ensure the institution is running properly.