DAP members form coalition with govt MPs

The DAP members and the remaining 23 MPs from the current caretaker government form a new coalition. Photo: PM Press Secretariat

The Democratic Alliance Party Members of Parliament have joined with the remaining 23 Members of Parliament in the Manasseh Sogavare-led caretaker government to form the next coalition.

The MPs who defected from the Opposition last night are Dr. Culwick Togamana, Connelly Sandakabatu, Jeremiah Manele, Rick Hou, Derrick Manuari, Peter Tom and Steve Abana.

According to a statement from the group, a coalition agreement is expected to be executed shortly.

The statement also said the group is discussing its nomination for the Prime Minister’s post.

It will submit its nomination to the Office of the Governor General during the nomination period, which officially began at 8 a.m. today and will close at 4 p.m. on Friday.