THIRTEEN new provincial ministers took their oath of allegiance in Western Province capital Gizo today (10th January 2023) – a day after Premier Billy Veo won the premier’s position.
The swearing-in of the 13 provincial ministers was officiated by the Commissioner of Oath and the Speaker of the Provincial Assembly, Hon. Ramrahka Talasasa.
Premier Veo, who is also now the province’s Minister for Community and Ecclesiastical Affairs, balanced his executive with seven re-elected MPAs and six new MPAs to form his strong 14 member executive.
The new executive members of the provincial assembly and their allocated portfolios are as follows:
Carlrick Runimetu – Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance,
Pitrie Sute – Minister of Lands, Housing and Physical Planning
Gordon Zebo – Minister for Education and Human Resources Development
Alesina Redfern – Minister for Planning, Economic development and Aid Project Coordination.
Jennings Movobule – Minister for Commerce and Investment.
Ronnie Kituru Ghemu – Minister for Culture and Tourism
Jenty Isaac – Agriculture and Forestry.
Sutcliffe George – Minister for Energy and Natural Resources
Brian Lotikena – Minister for Transport Works and Communication.
Kenneth George – Minister for Health and Rural Water Supply
Richard Beck – Minister for Women, Yoou9th and Sports Development.
Fredrick Alepitu – Minister for Fisheries and Marine Resources.
Premier Veo urged the new executive to be responsible in their duties.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
