PNG Opposition MP warns against interference in judiciary

Former Papua New Guinea Attorney General Kerenga Kua says the referral of Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika by the Ombudsman Commission is a matter of national importance that could influence future constitutional processes in the country.

The Sinesine Yongomugl MP labelled the development as unprecedented and cautioned leaders against actions that could weaken the independence of the judiciary or upset the balance between the three arms of Government.

Mr Kua’s remarks follow calls by the Opposition for the acting Public Prosecutor to urgently seek the Supreme Court’s interpretation on the matter.

According to Mr Kua, the legal procedures adopted in dealing with the referral, as well as the eventual outcome, would likely become a precedent for future cases involving high constitutional office holders.

He said Papua New Guinea’s Constitution was designed to protect the rule of law and ensure the powers of Government remain separate and independent.

The former State Minister further warned that any attempt to tamper with constitutional provisions or interfere with established powers could create long-term consequences for the nation’s governance system.

“This referral must be treated with caution,” he said.