20 Sep 2013

Former PNG PM wary of changes to motions of no confidence

3:36 pm on 20 September 2013

A former Prime minister of Papua New Guinea says a new law that changes the way a motion of confidence can be brought agains the Government could lead to a disaster.

Sir Julius Chan, the governor of New Ireland Province, says the extension of the notice period from one week to one month may give rise to more bribes and institutions like police and the army taking sides.

The law was passed on Thursday, and introduces a rule that at least 21 members of parliament have signed the motion before it is debated.

81 MPs voted for the amendments, and two voted against it.

The prime minister Peter O'Neill told PNG Village the amendments were not about protecting himself.

Sir Julius says he supports the changes, but questions the one month period.