Papua New Guinea's acting governor-general has resigned, giving new weight to speculation about a no confidence motion against the Prime Minister, Sir Michael Somare.
The former prime minister, Bill Skate, says he is stepping aside from the vice regal position he has held since October because of what he described as adverse political events of the past week.
Last week, Mr Skate's political party, the People's National Congress, was dropped from the ruling coalition in a move designed to thwart any no confidence vote on Sir Michael's leadership.
Bill Skate's decision has reignited speculation that there will be a move to oust Sir Michael in the coming weeks.
