Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has expressed serious concern following reports of the referral of Papua New Guinea’s Chief Justice to a Leadership Tribunal, describing the development as an unprecedented matter involving one of the nation’s most important constitutional offices.

Prime Minister Marape said the Office of the Chief Justice embodies the rule of law and the administration of justice in Papua New Guinea, and therefore any developments affecting that office must be treated with the utmost seriousness and care.

“The last place in our country where we would want such matters to arise is from the Office of the Chief Justice,” Prime Minister Marape said.

“That office represents the embodiment of our country’s laws and the integrity of our judicial system. Any issue concerning that office must be handled with the highest level of responsibility and respect for our constitutional processes.”

The Prime Minister said he was informed of the development while in Angoram, East Sepik Province, and was surprised by the news.

“I was in Angoram when I was woken up to this news. Like many Papua New Guineans, I was surprised by the development,” he said.

Prime Minister Marape has directed the Chief Secretary to Government to convene an urgent meeting on Friday with senior officials to review the matter and ensure the integrity of the judiciary and constitutional processes is fully respected.

The meeting will include the Chief Secretary, the Secretary for Justice and Attorney-General, the State Solicitor, and the Secretary for Judicial Services.

“This is not a light matter. It is unprecedented territory for our country. The referral of the Chief Justice — the head of the judiciary — raises serious constitutional considerations,” Prime Minister Marape said.

He emphasised that the Executive Government respects the independence of constitutional offices, including the Ombudsman Commission, and will not interfere with their lawful duties.

“I have no authority to compel the Ombudsman Commission or any constitutional office holder to carry out their duties. They must perform their functions independently, and we respect that.”

However, the Prime Minister said the Government has a responsibility to understand the circumstances surrounding the referral and ensure the institutional integrity of the judiciary is safeguarded.

“Our judiciary has been the anchor of our democracy since Independence. It has upheld the rule of law and maintained stability within our constitutional system,” he said.

Prime Minister Marape also acknowledged the long service of the current Chief Justice.

“The Chief Justice has served our country for more than 40 years with distinction. From what I know of him, he is a man who has carried himself with integrity throughout his career.”

The Prime Minister said the Government will seek a full briefing on the circumstances surrounding the referral while continuing to respect the Constitution and the independence of the judiciary.

“Our focus is to ensure the Office of the Chief Justice is not unnecessarily brought into disrepute, while fully respecting the legal processes and the role of independent constitutional bodies.”

Prime Minister Marape said the Government will continue to monitor developments closely.