PNG PM Marape Vows Legal Response Over Surprise Court Order on KPHL Board Changes
PNG Prime Minister James Marape has condemned what he described as a “surprise ex parte court order” obtained by former Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) Chairman, Dr Benedict Yaru, and assured the public that the government will defend its position based on legal grounds.
Dr Yaru, who held the chairmanship for nine years—exceeding the legally allowed two terms—secured the interim court order without informing the State or its trustee shareholder, Marape revealed.
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| PNG PM Marape Vows Legal Response Over Surprise Court Order on KPHL Board Changes |
“This court proceeding was initiated without our knowledge or representation. We were notified only after the ex parte order was granted,” said Marape.
He added that the government would act once the order is formally served, and will rely on legal advice to justify its actions. According to Marape, the decision to restructure the KPHL Board followed due process, backed by the State Solicitor’s legal opinion.
“The advice confirmed there was a vacancy and that I, as the trustee shareholder, have the authority to appoint a new board. We acted in line with governance principles,” he said.
Highlighting that some former board members had served beyond their legal terms and retirement age, Marape stressed the need for periodic leadership renewal at KPHL.
“These roles are not lifetime appointments. The board must be refreshed to enhance management oversight,” he said, endorsing the appointment of Gerea Aopi as chairman due to his vast experience in the oil and gas sector.
Marape affirmed the government’s commitment to good governance and said legal processes will not derail reform efforts at the state-owned enterprise.
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