Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has firmly rejected recent claims by the Opposition Leader alleging Executive interference in the Judiciary, describing them as misleading, irresponsible, and a distortion of constitutional facts.
“There has been no referral—formal or informal—of any judge, let alone the Chief Justice, by the Executive Government to any disciplinary or investigative authority,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“The Judiciary is an independent arm of government under our Westminster system, led by the Chief Justice, who holds equal constitutional standing with the Prime Minister. My government has never, and will never, interfere with judicial processes.”
The Prime Minister emphasised that the independence of the courts is safeguarded under the 1975 Constitution, which establishes a clear separation of powers between the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary. He reiterated that the Executive has no authority to direct, discipline, or influence any judicial or constitutional office, including the Ombudsman Commission.
“Our Constitution enshrines the independence of key institutions precisely to prevent political control,” Prime Minister Marape stated. “It is deeply concerning that the Opposition Leader would attempt to politicise and mislead the public on such a fundamental democratic principle.”
He also reminded the public that both the Prime Minister and the Opposition Leader hold equal voting rights in the appointment and disciplinary processes of constitutional office holders: “No one person—not even the Prime Minister—has unilateral authority in these matters,” he said.
Clarification on the Paraka-Yafai Case
Addressing media commentary surrounding the Paraka-Yafai trial, Prime Minister Marape clarified that: “I was not the person on trial. I was called as a witness by the State in my capacity as former Finance Minister to assist the prosecution. My evidence has been on police record since 2013. It is improper and dishonest to frame my involvement as interference or to misrepresent the case as an attack on the Judiciary.”
Commitment to Judicial Strengthening
Prime Minister Marape urged the public and the media to resist political theatrics and sensational headlines, particularly during Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence anniversary—a time for national unity and responsible leadership.
“Let me assure our people: under my leadership, this Government is committed to strengthening—not undermining—the Judiciary,” he said.
He outlined key ongoing reforms, including:
• Increasing the number of judges
• Improving judicial infrastructure and facilities
• Enhancing conditions of service
• Raising the retirement age for judges
“These are the reforms that matter. These are the real issues the public deserves to hear about.”
Call for Responsible Political Discourse
In closing, Prime Minister Marape urged the Opposition to elevate the national conversation: “Our people deserve truth, not tactics. I challenge the Opposition to focus on nation-building, not fear-mongering. Let us rise above political opportunism and serve with maturity, respect, and integrity.”