27 Dec 2006

PNG National executive confirms appointment of Gari Baki as Police Commissioner

11:13 am on 27 December 2006

Papua New Guinea's National Executive Council is understood to be sticking by its decision on the appointment of Gari Baki as the Police Commissioner.

The Post Courier newspaper says Cabinet is adamant it will keep Mr Baki until a court makes a decision over charges of causing disaffection.

If the court finds him guilty, then the Cabinet is likely to look at other candidates.

The Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare, if forced to reconsider, is said to be keen on appointing a Briton or an Australian as the Country's senior police officer.

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Mr Baki's appointment has been questionned by the Police Association, and later the acting Commissioner Fred Sheekiot, and Assistant Commissioner Tony Wagambie.

Their lawsuit to restrain Mr Baki from taking office was thrown out by Justice Timothy Hinchliffe who said it was premature.