SOMARE NOT STEPPING DOWN

ABC Radio reports that Papua New Guinea's ruling National Alliance party has denied reports that Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare is preparing to step down at the party's national convention next month,

PNG's Post Courier is reporting that Sir Michael is planning to relinquish the party leadership before August 14. But party spokesperson Stephen Pokawin says those reports are false.

However Mr Pokawin has confirmed the party's leadership will be the meeting's number one agenda item. Deputy leader Don Polye has reportedly announced he will make a bid for the top job.

The National Alliance Party's general secretary says the party constitution restricts Sir Michael from contesting the leadership for a third time.