PNG court nullifies Police Minister Duban as Member for Madang Open seat

Nixon Duban

Police Minister and Member for Madang, Nixon Duban, who is a member of the ruling People’s National Congress Party, has lost the seat.

The Court of Disputed Returns in Madang today declared his election in the 2012 national election void, and ordered an immediate by- election be conducted for Madang Open.

This stemmed from an election petition filed by runner-up, Bryan Krammer, on grounds of illegal practices, bribery and undue influence, as well as attempted bribery and undue influence.

The court found enough evidence to back the grounds in that Mr Duban paid a cheque of 300-thousand-Kina to the Yagaum Rural Hospital in June last year, and gave out cash to voters during a youth camp at Aufan Village in May last year.

Speaking outside the court room to his supporters, Mr Duban says he accepted the court’s ruling and will not challenge the decision, and likewise told them to remain calm whilst the by- election is conducted.

Mr Krammer, however, says he is considering appealing the decision in the Supreme Court as he prefers a recount and not a by-election.