PNG PM Marape seeks legal guidance over Chief Justice case referral

The National Government is seeking legal advice before deciding how to proceed with an Ombudsman Commission referral involving Papua New Guinea Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika, Prime Minister James Marape says.

PNG's  Marape Governement seeks legal guidance over Chief Justice case referral

Mr Marape said the issue required careful handling because it concerns one of the country’s highest constitutional offices and touches directly on the independence of the judiciary.

He said the Government acknowledged and respected the constitutional mandates carried out by the Ombudsman Commission and the Public Prosecutor.

According to the Prime Minister, the referral documents were formally received by the Office of the Prime Minister in the presence of the Chief Secretary.

Mr Marape said the Office of the Chief Justice held equal constitutional status with the Office of the Prime Minister and the Office of the Speaker, representing the three separate arms of Government.

He said the Government would consult the State Solicitor and other relevant legal authorities to determine the proper course of action.

The Prime Minister described the situation as unprecedented and said every step taken by the Government must remain within the boundaries of the Constitution.

He further stated that the Government would carefully assess whether the National Executive Council has authority under Section 179 of the Constitution to address a referral involving the Chief Justice.

“We will handle this matter with great care and full respect for the Constitution and the independence of the judiciary,” Mr Marape said.