Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has today (23.05.25) welcomed the new Resident Judge for Hela Province, Justice Andrew Kostopoulos in Tari, as he stressed to the people the importance of respecting the Rule of Law.
The Prime Minister, while addressing the people, said bringing judges and court officers into provinces was not an easy task, and thanked the Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika and his Deputy CJ Ambeng Kandakasi for showing respect and having faith in improving Law and Order and justice services in Hela Province.
Justice Kostopoulos has taken up his role in Tari on Thursday, 22nd May 2025, where he is judge for the Tari National and District Courts.
Prime Minister Marape appealed to his people to respect such initiatives and respect the rule of law and officers of the Court.
“The greatest gift we can give is to be law-abiding citizens. This country can only be better place if we all follow the laws of our land,” Prime Minister Marape stated.
He also expressed gratitude to the Chief Magistrate for sending magisterial staff to the Tari District Court, reinforcing the need for adherence to legal pro- tocols.
“The Chief Justice has already challenged us to change our ways and respect the rule of law. Similarly, the Chief Ombudsman has called on us, the Hela peo- ple, to be good law-abiding citizens and respect one another,” he added.
The Prime Minister urged the community to show respect for police, military personnel, magisterial staff, and the newly appointed resident judge.
“To the people of Tari, if you create trouble, be aware that the police will be on the lookout for you.”
Prime Minister Marape called for a collective effort to demonstrate respect and make peace in the community.
“Respect the new resident judge and allow him to perform his duties and hear court cases. If I hear of any further disturbances, it will reflect poorly on all of us.”
The occasion was witnessed by all the people of Hela Province, Minister for Justice and Attorney General Hon. Pila Ninigi, Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika, Deputy CJ Ambeng Kandakasi, Chief Ombudsman Richard Pagen, Police Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jnr, senior management team of the Law and Justice sector, and government officials. Police Commissioner David Manning was also present.
Governor for Hela, Hon. Philip Undialu also welcomed the judge while handing him the keys to his official residence and a vehicle to use for work.