Pundari calls on Paul Paraka to come out and tell the truth

Minister for Environment, Conservation and Climate Change  and Kopiam-Ambum MP John Pundari has called on the principal of Paraka Lawyers, Paul Paraka, to come forward and tell the truth about the millions of kina being allegedly paid to his law firm.
Pundari said the issue of subjudice regarding the payments should be put aside because it was now public and concerned the entire people of this country who needed to know.
“All of these current issues being dealt with in the courts and protests organised by students stemmed from the financial arrangements between the Somare government and Paraka Lawyers. So what is Paul Paraka’s position on all of these?
“It is time Paraka comes out and tells the truth. I ask Paraka to explain to students, civil societies, lawyers, the judiciary and civil servants as to what actually happened, and whether the payments made were legitimate,” Pundari said.
“This is an issue of serious public interest and to date, we have not heard from him (Paraka), the man at the centre of this matter.
“Paraka must tell the nation who benefited from the proceeds of the funds, be it politicians or civil servants for that matter.”
Pundari said the Government initiated the investigation into the legal fees and this was a matter of public concern that should be explained.
“We all know that Paraka has been charged for some of the payments made and these matters are before the court of law. “The final outcome of the matters will only be known when the court hands down its decision on whether the payments are legitimate or fraudulent.
“But, before the court makes that decision, the Office of the Prime Minister has already been brought into disrepute.
“Why crucify the Government that instigated the investigations into the Paraka payments when the Paraka case is still outstanding?
“What if these payments were legitimate and legal for actual services rendered by Paraka Lawyers?
“Then, how will the damage done to the Prime Minister and the Office of the Prime Minister, other leaders and Paraka himself be undone?
“It is imperative, therefore, that I call on Paraka to come out and clearly state the facts publicly regarding that matter although this issue is before the court.”