Basil PNG's new finance minister

Sam Basil Photo: Facebook

Former opposition leader Sam Basil is Papua New Guinea's new finance minister following a cabinet reshuffle.

Prime Minister Peter O'Neill's reshuffle comes after the sudden resignation of James Marape last week.

Mr Basil, the leader of the Pangu Pati, who defected from the opposition last year, will take over Mr Marape's former portfolio.

In other changes, forestry minister Douglas Tomuriesa will be leader of government business, while Koni Iguan enters cabinet to take over as communications minister, the post formerly held by Mr Basil.

Lekwa Gure takes over from Mr Iguan as chair of the public accounts committee.