PNG govt to abide by police commissioner ruling

2:44 pm on 25 January 2021

Papua New Guinea's Police Minister, William Onglo, says the government respects and will comply with all decisions of the Court after a ruling was made nullifying last year's appointment of David Manning as Commissioner of Police.

David Manning, PNG's State of Emergency Controller and Police Commissioner.

David Manning, PNG's State of Emergency Controller and Police Commissioner. Photo: PNG PM Media

The appointment of Manning was ruled unlawful by Justice David Canning on Friday.

In a statement, Onglo said the Marape-led Government respected the decision of the National Court and would do its utmost best to comply with all and any orders issued.

The minister also appealed to all members of the public and the constabulary to respect the decision of the court.

The court ruling said there was an error on the part of the Public Services Commission, as they did not take into account the absence of a specific tertiary qualication for candidates vying for the post.

The judicial review came about after proceedings filed by assistance commissioner Sylvester Kalaut and former policeman Fred Yakasa.

Six other objections by the duo were dismissed by Justice Canning.

The nullification of Manning's appointment comes into effect on 29 January.