PNG Government Orders Review on Referral of Chief Justice to NEC

Papua New Guinea’s top public servant has been directed to review the process that led to the referral of Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika to the National Executive Council following action taken by the Ombudsman Commission.

Prime Minister James Marape confirmed that Cabinet has not yet convened to discuss the matter, saying the Government is taking a measured approach because of the constitutional and institutional implications involved.

“It’s a matter we’re handling very diligently. We don’t want to rush,” Mr Marape said.

The Prime Minister said Chief Secretary Ivan Pomaleu had been asked to examine the process surrounding the referral before any formal government action is taken.

Mr Marape described the situation as one without precedent in the country’s governance history, pointing out that both the Office of the Chief Justice and the Office of the Prime Minister carry equal constitutional standing.

“This is an unprecedented matter, and as equal heads of government, we are treating it very carefully and diligently,” he said.

He said legal advice has also been requested from the State Solicitor after what he described as a conclusive determination by another constitutional office, and Cabinet will consider its legal authority once that advice is received.

“An equally important constitutional office in the Public Prosecutor has made a conclusive finding, and so we asked the State Solicitor to look into this matter. Advice is due and pending,” Mr Marape said.

“As soon as the advice comes, we will look at firstly what power Cabinet has and what Cabinet can do, and then we’ll finalise the process,” he added.

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