​PNG PM Marape Denies Interfering in ICAC Affairs After Deputies’ Claims

​PNG PM Marape Denies Interfering in ICAC Affairs After Deputies’ Claims

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has denied allegations of political interference in the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), saying the ongoing suspension of two deputy commissioners followed lawful procedures.

The claims surfaced after suspended deputy commissioners Graham Gill and Daniel Baulch accused the Prime Minister of meddling in ICAC’s internal matters. Gill alleged on social media that he and Baulch were informed of their suspensions via an email from Marape four months ago, without being told why.

Marape responded in a formal statement, saying public forums were not the proper channels to discuss legal and administrative issues. “As a senior officer of the law, the suspended Deputy Commissioner Daniel Baulch should know that due process must be allowed to take its full course,” he said, adding that Baulch remains innocent until a Judicial Tribunal makes a ruling.

He clarified that the process involving the ICAC Commissioner and the two deputies was conducted under constitutional and legislative provisions. “This is not a political issue or a government decision – it is a matter arising from allegations and counter-allegations among the three senior officers themselves,” he said.

An inquiry into the matter was led by the Secretary for the National Judicial Staff Services, alongside the State Solicitor and the Secretary to the National Executive Council.

Marape expressed frustration that ICAC’s leadership had been distracted by internal disputes. “It’s disappointing that instead of fighting corruption, these officers are fighting each other, despite the substantial support my government has provided,” he said.

He said the case now rests with the appropriate legal process to establish the truth and uphold the integrity of the anti-corruption body.

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