Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has expressed his commendation for Hon. Pila Niningi, the Minister for Justice and Attorney General, and the Judicial and Legal Services Commission (JLSC) for their recent appointment of international judges to key positions within Papua New Guinea’s judiciary. This initiative is aimed at strengthening the capacity of the judicial system, enhancing the delivery of justice, and improving efficiency across the nation.
The Judicial and Legal Services Commission (JLSC) is an independent commission responsible for the appointment, promotion, and discipline of judges in Papua New Guinea. The commission is composed of several key members including Chief Justice (Chairperson), the Attorney-General, a representative of the Public Services Commission, a representative of the National Executive Council, and two representatives from the Law Society of Papua New Guinea. The Commission’s work is pivotal in maintaining a credible and efficient justice system that upholds the principles of impartiality, integrity, and professionalism.
Prime Minister Marape acknowledged the leadership of the Chief Justice in spearheading efforts to integrate external judges into both the National Court and Supreme Court, underscoring the country’s commitment to enhancing its judicial capacity and ensuring the timely delivery of justice. The inclusion of international judges is intended to bolster the nation’s capacity to address complex legal cases and reduce backlog, thereby promoting public confidence in the justice system.
The Prime Minister made special mention of a particular judge who, along with his young family, has chosen to relocate to Tari, the capital of Hela Province. This decision is of great significance given Tari’s central role as the headquarters of Hela Province and its proximity to the PNG LNG project, a major contributor to the national economy, accounting for approximately 35% of Papua New Guinea’s annual budget.
“Having a resident judge in Tari is a monumental step forward for our justice system,” stated Prime Minister Marape. “It ensures that law enforcement efforts are complemented by timely prosecutions and convictions, particularly in regions critical to our nation’s economy.”
The Prime Minister further expressed his appreciation to the Hela Provincial Government for their proactive support in providing accommodation for the judiciary and facilitating the judge’s transition into the community. He noted that this cooperation demonstrates a shared commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that justice is both accessible and effective for all citizens.
“The presence of a resident judge in Tari will enhance the administration of justice, particularly in a region where law enforcement faces unique challenges. It also serves as a strong message of our government’s dedication to ensuring equal access to justice for all Papua New Guineans, regardless of their location,” Prime Minister Marape added.
The Prime Minister concluded by expressing his heartfelt gratitude to the judge and his family for their willingness to take on this important role in Tari, as well as to other judges who have accepted postings throughout the country to enhance the justice system.