By Mark Forbes Foreign Affairs Correspondent
Canberra May 15, 2004
Papua New Guinea's coalition Government is in danger of collapse, despite Opposition Leader Sir Mekere Morauta joining it to help stave off a no-confidence vote.
In moves threatening political stability, economic reform and Australia's $1.2 billion assistance package, two major coalition partners have demanded more ministries and the sacking of Treasurer Bart Philemon.
The People's National Congress and the People's Action Party have demanded the changes in return for continued support of Sir Michael Somare's Government.
This places intense pressure on Sir Michael, who is attempting to find three ministries to accommodate the arrival of Sir Mekere's PNG Party.
Despite the superficial appearance of political dominance by the Government, with only a handful of MPs remaining on the Opposition benches, internal struggles over the spoils of office appear likely to split the coalition.
The demands are seen as a potential precursor to a no-confidence vote. One possible leadership rival is Public Service Minister and PNC leader Peter O'Neill, who is demanding the Treasurer's position.
His party is also seeking the Inter-Government Relations ministry, held by Sir Peter Barter.
Australia would be alarmed by the removal of Sir Peter and Mr Philemon, seen to be among PNG's best-performing and most honest ministers.
There are also concerns that pressure to find cabinet posts could mean other respected ministers are dumped, including Police Minister Bire Kimisopa, a champion of Australia's plan to rebuild and restore law and order.
Complicating the parliamentary numbers, only six of Sir Mekere's PNG Party's nine MPs have said they would join him on the Government benches.
Government insiders warned that the PNC, PAP and their allied United Party were likely to walk out if their conditions were not met, effectively dismantling the current coalition. Collectively, they have close to 30 MPs.
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