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Two Opposition Member of Parliaments (MPs) and an Independent MP have deserted their camp and are now with the Democratic Coalition for Change Government (DCCG) as of Monday.
They are Moses Garu, Alfred Ghiro and Martin Kealoe.
Their departure has weaken the Opposition’s strength to eight and Independent camp to seven while the DCCG increased its strength to 35 MPs.
Mr Garu joins the government to chair the Cabinet sub-committee on RAMSI while Mr Ghiro will chair the Cabinet sub-committee on the Development Bank of Solomon Islands (DBSI) which the government is keen to resurrect.
Independent MP Kealoe is considering of taking up a chairmanship post.
This latest move by three MPs has strengthened the DCC Government’s numerical strength, an important step as the Government moves to pass important legislation, including the proposed legislation to establish free economic zones around the nation.
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare yesterday welcomed the three MPs’ decision adding their decisions were exemplary.
“We welcome them with open hands. There is so much to do to move this country forward. Their decision to cross the floor is exemplary and remaining MPs on the Opposition bench should think seriously about their position,” Mr Sogavare said.
Media consultant Alfred Sasako when asked about what convinced the three MPs to switch to government, he said, they are willing to work with the government.
By Charles Kadamana
