Forced Resignation of Peter O'Neill and New Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea 2019 James Marape - EVENTS IN CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER

Here is a compilation of the events dating back to Hon James Marape's resignation as the Finance Minister. This compilation of events will go down in the history of Papua New Guinea like the 1997 Sandline Crises when Sir Julius Chan was forced to vacate the Prime Minister's seat. This time is Peter O'Neill who was forced to resign after 7.5 years. 

CREDIT MUST BE GIVEN WHERE IT IS DUE - THE OPPOSITION. THE COUNTRY HAS NEVER SEEN AN OPPOSITION LIKE THE ONE SITTING OPPOSITE THE PNC GOVT. THIS OPPOSITION WAS THE BEST OPPOSITION THAT KEPT THE O'NEILL-ABEL GOVERNMENT IN CHECK FOR ALMOST 8 YEARS.

Check out the analysis on the latest on VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE HERE 

History tells us that the PNC-led coalition snatched power from the NA led government when Sir M. Somare was hospitalised in Singapore and left the country under a cabinet that was called the 'Kitchen Cabinet'.

This time, the main dividing factor was misguided loyalty to Peter O'Neill and lack of trust in his leadership which saw disintegration within that Peoples' National Congress party. 

The events leading up to Peter Oneill's resignation are in reverse chronological order. As you read, bear in mind that there were twists and turns. But, all led to a forced resignation.

I'll park the events in order here so that in 30-odd years time, the children can read it and understand how these elected representatives - so called the leaders - behaved when it comes to changing the Prime Minister of the country.

SOURCE: ALL CREDITS TO EMTV NEWS ONLINE

30th May 2019

PNG has a new Prime Minister Hon James Marape Member for Tari-Pori

Vote count result 

Hon James Marape - 101

Sir Mekere Morata - 8

Wednesday 29th May 2019


“The Prime Minister has resigned so what it means is that there is now a vacancy in the office of the Prime Minister....this now means the Vote of No Confidence motion is no longer viable.” Political analyst and researcher Dr Joseph Ketan

With a vacancy available after the resignation of Peter O'Neill as Prime Minister, intense lobbying is underway before Wed at 10.00 am.

The Members of the People's Progress Party, People's National Congress Party and Pangu Party met at Crowne Hotel.

⏰Prime Minister, Peter O'Neill has announced that he delivered his letter of resignation at 9.45am to the Governor General, Sir Bob Dadae.

Minutes earlier, the Speaker also told the house,  as the first order of business, that the Opposition had also filed a motion for a vote of no confidence.  

Mr O’Neill in welcoming the motion said it was an honour to serve as Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea.

“We have had some profound achievements. We have delivered significant developments, particularly in the most remote areas through our DSIP and PSIP.

“We have constructed many teachers colleges and nursing colleges. These are some of the  things that we are very proud of.”

But the announcement was not satisfactory for  Madang MP, Bryan Kramer, who raised a point of order and asked for proof that Peter O’Neill had indeed resigned.  

“While I acknowledge the announcement by the Prime  Minister, there is a process in place and the process says that the Prime Minister will deliver his resignation to the Governor General and the Governor General will inform you.  I have not heard that from you,” Kramer said to the Speaker. 

“I want to know if the Governor General has confirmed the resignation.”

The Speaker then produced an acknowledgement letter from the Governor General’s Office.

“I want to let the house know that I have a letter from the Governor General.  I received it at 10.45am.  I want to tell this honourable house and the people of Papua New Guinea that the position of the Prime Minister is vacant. 


Tuesday 28th May 2019

⏰Parliament Speaker, Job Pomat refuses to entertain Opposition motion, to remove him as Speaker.

⏳Opposition Leader and Aitape- Lumi MP, Patrick Pruaitch has been nominated as a candidate for the alternative Prime Minister ahead of Tari-Pori MP, after a secret ballot.

The results:
Patrick Pruaitch - 37 Votes
James Marape -  28 Votes

This comes ahead of this afternoon's Parliament Sitting.

⏰An urgent Supreme Court application filed by Prime Minister Peter O'Neill seeking legal clarification on the process in relation to the proposed Motion on the Vote of No Confidence has been adjourned to this Friday. 

A three-man bench is of the view that the application was not urgent when it was listed for hearing this morning.

⏳Former Chief Justice Sir Arnold Amet speaks about the legality of the Supreme Court Application filed by Prime Minister Peter O'Neill describing it as 'abuse of process'.

Sir A. AMET “The suggestion that  Prime Minister can appoint a  caretaker PM or acting PM is wrong and unconstitutional.

Monday 27th May 2019

⏳Opposition yet to choose the Alternate Prime Minister.

⏰Sir Julius Chan has stated that he is not acting Prime Minister, although honoured to be considered as the Governments alternative when the resignation of the PM takes place.

“The existing Prime Minister has no power to nominate a new Prime Minister of his choice, Peter O’Neill simply designated me the provisional caretaker of the Government Coalition”

Sunday 26th May 2019

⏰ A planned conference by Sir Julius Chan at 11am this morning at the Ela Beach Hotel in Port Moresby has been moved to the Crowne Hotel where the Prime Minister's PNC led coalition is camped.

Peter O'Neill steps down as Prime Minister. Sir Julius takes over.

⏰Peter O'Neill:  "I will be stepping down as Prime Minister.  Over the next few days and I will be visiting the Governor General. I want to say that it has not been easy."
#VONC #Handover #Oneill

⏳All three Oro MPs in Opposition after Masere joins Laguna camp, official headcount at 63.

⏳ Ijivitari MP, Richard Masere, was welcomed by James Marape. Masere said he made the decision to move on his own will because of continuous calls his people made in the last three weeks.

⏳  Environment and Conservation Minister, John Pundari has joined the Opposition. 

Saturday 25th May 2019

Three days before the Vote of No Confidence the PM  Peter O'Neill PNC led government has 49 members. The Alternate Government claimed to have 62 MPs.

It is not clear who the new choice for Prime Minister from the Alternate  Government, yet.

Surely the number and momentum are on the Opposition/Alternate Government side.

Friday 24th May 2010

⏳The biggest partner in the O'Neill-Abel Government has moved to the Opposition.

William Duma and his United Resources Party made the announcement this afternoon after arriving at the Laguna.

⏳Mori move to alternative government

Commerce and Trade Minister,  Wera Mori, has announced his move to Opposition in the latest defection before Parliament sits on Tuesday. Wera Mori is the latest cabinet minister to leave the PNC-led coalition citing his dissatisfaction and lack of confidence in Prime Minister Peter O’Neill.

Thursday 23rd May 2019

⏳Pangu Pati members showing support for the Alternate government

Former leaders of PANGU Pati have urged current parliamentary members to stand united in their efforts to change the country’s top political leadership. 

Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare and Sir Rabbie Namaliu made this call when meeting with current PANGU Pati members in Port Moresby today.

⏰Minister for Fisheries and Kabwum MP, Patrick Basa, says he will remain loyal to the current O’Neill- Abel Government.

This is in response to comments made by people from his district, saying the Member needs to make his stance clear.

Tuesday 21st May 2019

Kabwum MP, Patrick Basa, is being urged to return to the district to explain his stance in the upcoming Vote of No Confidence. They say, the people deserve an explanation on what their elected representative will opt to do, come the VONC. His people feel overlooked in spite of the current political climate surrounding the Vote of No Confidence.

Monday 20th May 2019

⏳Opposition withdraws VONC motion and Marape steps down as Opposition's PM nominee.

The Opposition has withdrawn the vote of no confidence motion and in the same news conference,  Tari-Pori MP, James Marape,  stepped down as the alternative  Prime Minister candidate for the opposition.

The Opposition  Leader, Patrick Pruaitch, says the decision was reached after a consensus was reached between all factions of the  Laguna camp.

“In so far as the vote of no confidence is concerned, we have decided,   and I as the mover of the motion, have written to the clerk to withdraw the motion with the concurrence of our prime ministerial nominee, James Marape,”  Patrick Pruaitch said.

James Marape also released a separate statement saying his decision to step down was made in consultation with other members of the group.

Sunday 19th May 2019

⏰In a move that has been strongly criticised, PNG’s Attorney General applied for a stay order to stop the looming vote of no confidence motion in Parliament.

The Government says this is because they want to uphold the rule of law and the doctrine of the separation of powers.

On the political front, the interpretation of the move is many from the opposition - its a ploy to delay the vote. From the Government - they're simply upholding the rule of law.

Tonight we take a closer look at the legal intricacies and look at how all this might play out on the 28th when parliament resumes.

Friday 17th May 2019

⏰Attorney General, Alfred Manase, has instructed government lawyers to apply for a stay order on the vote of no confidence motion until all matters relating to the doctrine of the separation of powers are dealt with by the Supreme Court. 

The Attorney General stated that the urgent application is not to stop the vote of no confidence but to ensure the rule of law is respected and observed at all time.

“I want to announce to you and the people of Papua New Guinea that yesterday I filled an urgent application in the Supreme Court seeking an order from the court to stay the Parliament from entertaining the Notice of Motion of no confidence until the Supreme Court makes a final determination of a Supreme Court reference my predecessor, Davis Steve, file in the Supreme Court on 3rd of December 2018 (SCR 5 OF 2018)

⏰The Melanesian Alliance Party headed by Minister for National Planning and Monitoring, Sam Basil, opened their official office today.

The new Melanesian Alliance office was formally used by PANGU Party in the past.

Basil and members of MA were present at today’s opening.

⏰Rigo MP, Lekwa Gure, has officially taken on the responsibilities of the Civil Aviation Ministry from Alfred Manase.

At a formal hand-over-take-over meeting at the Civil Aviation Authority Headquarter in Port Moresby, heads of various regulators and entities provided updates to Minister Gure.

The new Minister is not new to the industry, having been an experienced airline pilot for over 30 years prior to entering politics.

He says his focus will be on strengthening the industry and enforcement to make the industry safer for the travelling public.

Thursday 16th May 2019

⏰New Attorney General, Alfred Manase has directed Government lawyers to apply for a  Stay Order on the Vote Of No- Confidence Motion by Parliament.

⏰ Forestry Minister and Member for Kiriwina-Goodenough, Douglas Tomuriesa, held a reconciliation ceremony to apologize for briefly siding with Opposition and renouncing his distrust in O'Neill let government.

⏳Member for Tari-Pori, James Marape is urging the Ombudsman Commission to table UBS Loan Report in Parliament, amidst speculation by the public.

Wednesday 15th May 2019

In anticipation to avoid the government playing delay tactic or avoid sitting on the 28th of May 2019, Rabaul MP Dr Alan Marat cautioned the Speaker.

⏳The Rabaul MP, Dr Allan Marat, has cautioned the Speaker of Parliament,  Job Pomat to remain independent and not adjourn Parliament prematurely when the house resumes on the 28th of May.

Dr Marat’s comments come after a media conference by the Parliamentary Clerk’s office in which it was stated the vote of no confidence will not happen this month if parliament doesn’t sit for a full week.

Tuesday 14th May 2019

⏰Prime Minister, Peter O'Neill says, his coalition still has the numbers heading into the next Parliament sitting on the 28th of May 2019.

He made these remarks at Government House during the announcement of new members joining his cabinet.

⏳Sir Puka Temu, former Health Minister and Member For Abau, resigned from the People's National Congress Party and has returned to the "Our Development Party." He feels the people of the Central Province should have benefited more under the Government.

Monday 13th May 2019

⏰Major reshuffling of PNC government ministerial portfolios.

• Yangoru-Sausia MP, Richard Maru is now the Minister for  Finance and  Rural Development. 

• Sam Basil, has been moved from the Finance Ministry to National Planning.

• Elias Kapavore has been moved from Public Service to the  Health Department to fill in the vacancy left by Abau’s Sir Puka Temu.

• Replacing Kapavore is Dei MP

• Wesley Nukunj who has been given charge of the Public Service Ministry.  

• Sumkar MP, Chris Nangoi, is now Transport Minister

• Kundiawa-Gembogl MP,  William Onglo has been given the Defence Ministry. 

• Former Air Niugini Pilot, Rigo MP, Lekwa Gure, is now the Civil Aviation Minister.

• Lagaip-Pogera MP, Tomait Kapili, has been appointed Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on Bougainville Affairs. 

Friday 10th May 2019

⏳James Marape and other members of parliament who defected from the People’s National Congress have accepted an invitation to join Pangu Pati. One week ago, Pangu was effective without a Party without a Parliamentary wing after 15 MPs resigned.

Thursday 9th May 2019

⏰Chaos in Pangu Pati as members split up. Morobe governor new Pangu Pati leader. Sam Basil joined Melanesian Alliance and remained with PNC government.

Tuesday 7th of May 2019

Parliament met for 2 hours. The tabling of Motion of Vote of No Confidence in PNC Gov't leadership.

⏰PM Peter O'Neill said after the Motion of VoNC “The government is well and truly solid, intact and we are ready to work.  As you can see with the partners led by all our coalition leaders, Sir Julius, Peter Yama,  Minister Duma, Minister   Basil and former Prime Minister Paias Wingti. We have shown courage to support a government that is working for the people of this country.

⏳The Opposition’s nominee for Prime Minister,  Tari-Pori MP, James Marape, was also furious at the manner in which the speaker ruled against an early resumption of Parliament.

James Marape also told the media that the government removed opposition MPs who were on a  Parliamentary Private Members committee that decides on the validity of votes of no confidence motions.

Parliament extended for 1 week and resumed on the 14th May for the actual VoNC to take place. Later, the parliament privilege committee extended the voting session for 21 days - VoNC session to take place on the 28th May 2019 (THIS DID NOT HAPPEN)

Monday 6th May 2019

- Laguna Camp named Hon. James Marape as Alternative PM.

- Nine former Pangu Pati members, led by Bulolo MP, Sam Basil have joined the Melanesian Alliance Party.

- Hon. Douglas Tomuriesa Member for Kiriwina Goodenough returns to Crown after spending time at Laguna.

- East New Britain Governor Nakikus Konga rejoins his party in the PNC led coalition despite turning up at Laguna camp this morning.

- Enga Governor, Peter Ipatas, joins Laguna camp.

- Parliament Speaker Hon. Job Pomat just arrived in Crown Plaza camp.

Sunday 5th May 2019

- All 5 Sandaun Province MPs including the Governor, Tony Wouwou, are now at the Laguna camp. They are Belden Namah (Vanimo-Green), Joe Sungi (Nuku), Patrick Pruaitch (Aitape-Lumi) Solan Mirisim (Telefomin).

Saturday 4th May 2019

- Deputy Prime Minister Charles Abel in the company of a lone Milne Bay governor (and after 5 hours delay) announced his continued support for Peter O’Neill.

- Laguna camp announced 57 MPs in camp and planned to review all agreements concluded recently by the O'Neill-Abel Government.

Friday, 3rd May 2019

- Douglas Tomuriesa, Member for Kiriwina-Goodenough, urges more Papuan MPs to join their cause.

- Member for Telefomin, Solan Mirisim, pushing for young leaders to make a stand.

- Dr Puka Temu, Member for Abau Open, joins the growing list of MPs dissatisfied with the Prime Minister. 

Sir Puka Temu said they have made a decision to move because of internal disagreements over how the country is being managed.

- All 15 Pangu MPs have resigned. 7 MPs have joined the 'Laguna' camp which now claims to have 51 members in total. It is unclear, what the Basil led faction is planning to do at this stage. 

Thursday 2nd May 2019

- The People's National Congress says the party has resolved "to back" Peter O'Neill as Prime Minister in the coming vote of no confidence. The party posted photos on its Facebook page claiming 38 members are intact. The caucus meeting initially planned for 6 May was moved to 1 May to counter moves by the opposition and defecting MPs. 
More updates to come. 

Monday 29th April 2019

- Tari Pori MP, James Marape, has announced that he is officially leaving the People’s National Congress citing lack of confidence in PNC party leader and PM O'Neill.

- Manus Governor, Charlie Benjamin and Okapa MP, Saki Soloma have also announced their formal exit from The People's National Congress Party.

Sunday 28th April 2019

- Prime Minister, Peter O'Neill, has arrived back in the country from China

Friday 26th April 2019

- Governors Sir Peter Ipatas (ENGA), William Powi (SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS) and Phillip Undialu (HELA) resign from PNC

Friday 11th April 2019

Hon James Marape decided to resign as the Finance Minister. 

Has Peter O'Neill Benefited From The NPF Tower Fraud?

Re-posted, PNG Exposed Blog

As new Finance and Treasury Minister Peter O’Neill settles into his new role, Papua New Guineans should be asking why this man has never been prosecuted for his role in the NPF tower fraud and why the Prime Minister thinks it a good idea to have an accused fraudster in charge of our Nation’s finances.

This is what the Post Courier reported on 22 Nov 2002:

FORMER businessman and now government minister Peter O’Neill “definitely benefited from proceeds of the NPF Tower Fraud,’’ the final report of the NPF Commission of Inquiry states.

The report says the commission made a thorough study of Port Moresby First Real Estate’s accounts and traced all monies paid in and out on account of Mr O’Neill.

“This conclusively showed that Mr O’Neill had definitely benefitted from the proceeds of the NPF Tower Fraud,” it said.

“It also shows that despite his denials, Mr O’Neill is the beneficial owner of Port Moresby First Real Estate.”

The report says it is clear that there is a relationship between Jimmy Maladina and Mr O’Neill whereby they have benefitted jointly from the NPF Tower Fraud.

The commission traced payments made from Carter Newell lawyers to Port Moresby First national Real Estate’s interest bearing deposit account with Nambawan Finance Limited.

It highlighted an amount of K500,000 from Carter Newell on January 18, 1999, another K100,000 deposited on February 25, 1999 and “ when Mr Maladina’s K300,000 of NPF Tower fraud money was added on 16th March 1999, both of these deposits became a single IBD — Deposit No. C08541 of K914,616.00”.

The report states the various amount of NPF Tower fraud money known to have been transferred from the No.1 Trust account to the No.2 Trust Account are listed as well as amounts of the Tower fraud money paid directly into the No.2 Trust Account and amounts paid in from the Nambawan finance deposit (see 12.4.1).

Each payment was traced by the commission, which determined which amounts were credited as “off-book” and which amounts were credited to a numbered ledger.

The results were that K100,000 cheque No 266929 transferred form No.1 Trust Account to No.2 Trust Account on May 14, 1999 (on the same day cheque No 263729 was drawn to cash which was cashed and collected by one Dick Yanda).

In its concluding comments on the second acceleration claim, the report states:

“The investigation into the spurious second acceleration payment has clearly demonstrated that it involved a carefully planned fraud on the NPF, instigated and carried out by Mr Maladina, with the active involvement and support of Mr Herman Leahy. Mr Leahy’s wife Ms Angelina Sariman played a supporting role as a principal offender. Mr Ken Yapane was also involved, at least as an accessory and receiver of fraudulently obtained money. The two managers of Kumagai Gumi were reluctant participants and are also principal offenders. Mr Fabila had knowledge of what was occurring. He failed to stop it and signed documents which helped to perpetrate the fraud.

“The tracing of the NPF money, paid as six progress payments by Kumagai Gumi, plus the K150,000 personal commission for Mr Maladina shows quite clearly who the beneficiaries of most of the Tower fraud monies were.

“These included Mr Maladina and his wife and companies, Mr Leahy and his wife and companies and Mr Ken Yapane.

“Substantial amounts were paid into PMFNRE accounts and substantial parts of these monies were paid for the benefit of Mr Peter O’Neill.”

This finding was vigorously denied by Mr O’Neill, who argued that although it appears on paper that payments for his benefit came from ledgers containing NPF Tower fraud money, he in fact had other monies of his own in other PMFNRE accounts, which were the true and “innocent” source of monies paid out to himself, his companies and his family company.

“To assess Mr O’Neill’s claim the commission made a thorough study of PMFNRE’s accounts and traced all monies paid in and out on account of Mr O’Neill. This conclusively showed that Mr O’Neill had definitely benefitted from the proceeds of the NPF Tower fraud. It also showed that, despite his denials, Mr O’Neill is the beneficial owner of PMFNRE and that Messrs Sullivan and Awela are his nominee shareholders.

“It is quite clear that there is a relationship between Mr Maladina and Mr O’Neill whereby they have benefitted jointly from the NPF Tower fraud.”

Among the many findings made against Mr O’Neill, the commission has found that Mr O’Neill had concealed his interest in Nama Coffee Exports Ltd, which had borrowed K4 million from PNGBC while Mr O’Neill was executive director of Finance Pacific which was owned/controlled by PNGBC.

The commission also found that a payment of cheque number 263604 for K100,000 was made by Port Moresby First Real Estate for and on behalf of Mr Peter O’Neill to secure his 25 per cent shareholding, held in the name of a Mr Jack Awela, in Nama Coffee Exports Limited.

The commission recommends that Mr O’Neill be referred to the Ombudsman Commission:

(a) to consider whether he has breached the Leadership Code by receiving the benefit of money derived from the NPF Tower fraud and by concealing his interest in Nama Coffee Exports Ltd; and

(b) consider whether Mr O’Neill had breached the Leadership Code when executive director of Finance Pacific when PNGBC extended loan facilities to Nama Coffee Exports Ltd in which Mr O’Neill had an undisclosed interest .

The report also highlights the use of NPF Tower fraud money totalling K960,000 for the purchase by Bluehaven No 42, of the Manamatana Flats.

The commission has found that Bluehaven 42 was owned by Mr O’Neill (with shares being held on trust for him) and that on March 8, 2000, it was owned by LBJ Investments — a company set up for Mr O’Neill’s children.

The balance of the purchase price for the Manamatana Flats was paid out of PMFNRE in April, 2000, at which time Bluehaven No 42 was owned by Mr O’Neill’s children’s company, LBJ Investments.

“After the Commission of Inquiry was established on April, 11, 2000, attempts were made to hide the source of the funding by fabricating an agreement between Global Halshaw and Property and Investment Consultants Ltd (Mr Maurice Sullivan) shown as dated June 24, 1999, lending funds to purchase investment properties in Port Moresby. This document is clearly false and ignores the fact that Property and Investment Consultants was not a shareholder in Bluehaven No 42.”

The report states it is clear that Mr Sullivan, Mr Barker and Mr O’Neill have been involved in this cover up and that Ken Barker and Mr O’Neill committed perjury.

The report states that:

(a) At the time of the purchase by Bluehaven of the Manamatana flats, Bluehaven was beneficially owned by Mr O’Neill.

(b) K150,000 receipted by receipt No. 70547 used in the purchase was derived from the NPF Tower fraud.

(c) K160,000 of the funds receipted by receipt No. 70546 was derived from Nambawan Finance IBD which included K300,000 derived from the NPF Tower fraud

(d) The K600,000 paid to complete the purchase was derived either from monies fraudulently obtained by Mr Maladina from the sale of the Waigani land or from Niugini Aviation in Hong Kong.

(e) Messrs Maladina, O’Neill, Sullivan and Barker are well aware of the true facts concerning these moneys and this transaction. Each of Mr O’Neill and Mr Sullivan have not given evidence which can be accepted by the Commission.

(f) The evidence of Mr Barker in relation to what occurred with this K600,000 is clearly false and knowingly false.

Although Mr Ken Barker committed the crime of perjury before the commission in relation to what occurred with this K600,000, the commission believes it would be a waste of resources to refer him to the Commissioner for Police as he has departed PNG permanently. He should be referred if he ever returns.

(g) On the October 28,, 2002, the commission directed counsel assisting to refer Mr O’Neill to the Commissioner for Police to investigate whether he should be charged with perjury concerning his evidence on this issue.

Seventeen years is along time, Mr Maladina ! #NPF #PNG pic.twitter.com/22UmbK9ujg

— PNG Insight (@PNG_Insight) May 21, 2015

Here is what the other Maladina brother explained to SBS Dateline how the fraud was conducted. involving his brother and the prime minister of Papua New Guinea. 

Peter O'Neill Pledged To Fight To The Last Breath - And he Is Fighting The Courts

This was a commentary from June 2014 when Peter O'Neill's integrity as the prime minister of Papua New Guinea was tested. Anti corruption task force's decision to arrest him and his reactions would go down in history. I was glad to have recorded the political events of June 2014. 

Here is a brief of what happened four weeks into the saga: the issuing of warrant of arrest, PO's evading the arrest, appointment of new police commissioner, actions of the PC and reactions from other national leaders.

CHRISTIAN LEADERS: We heard leaders from main-line churches appealing for O’Neill to submit to police request. Thank God and pioneer missionaries, PNG are blessed with established churches (Anglican, Lutheran, Catholic, SDA) with strong leaders who have wisdom to correct and suggest to political leaders what to do. Listen to words of men of God. Make no mistake, these leaders speak with wisdom. They represent mass of PNG’s population.

POLICE: Court has made it clear that policemen who are at the forefront of this political turmoil (caused by PM) are not rogue officers. Their reputations, experiences and dedication to the force are exemplary. Their commitment to stand firm at this time is a testament to their courage and determination. These men are trained (at police institution/s) to be strong, commissioned (on oath) to serve and moulded (by experience) to be fearless. They are discipline officers, for goodness sake, trust them to do the right thing.

Police hierarchy had been thrown in disarray with by one man, Peter O’Neill. Is it too late for Vaki to fix this vital institution? He was defeated at District Court but not late for Vaki to make the right call. Both National and District Courts have given Geoffrey Vaki’s no option but to arrest O’Neill. He MUST effect the WoA in haste to save face.

Vaki is rendered to nothing but USELESS in Peter O’Neill’s eyes if not for the policemen protecting the PM. Section of police who took Vaki’s commands can be seen to be the last baton of hope to remain police commissioner. We also see Police Association giving strong signal to politicians (like PM and Housing Minister) who called police ‘rogue cops’ to shut up. 

There are strong views within the Constabulary for Vaki to perform his constitutional duties without siding with Peter O’Neill. This was evident from reports in mainstream media and social network.

Mr Geoffrey Vaki can restore pride and comradeship in police force by taking a step out of PO’s shadow and listen to what courts, church leaders, senior citizens, students and public are saying about PO’s actions.

There needs to be neutral and impartial stand taken by Vaki now. This will not only save his reputation, but also protect the office of the Police Commissioner.

WARNING: 3 things the Police Commissioner, Geoffrey Vaki, should take note:

1. Task Force Sweep was reinstated. The investigation, its finding (Sam Koim and Miviri’s affidavits) and Warrant of Arrest of Peter O’Neill are valid and current. He does not have an option. He must commission the right officers to arrest and question Peter O’Neill.

2. Police have what’s called the ‘Institution Muscle’. When commenting on political plots and strategies to protect one man the Police Association general secretary used the word ‘muscle’ – such word must not be taken lightly by the Police Commissioner, especially when it comes from the Police Association, made by senior police representative. 

Here, he is implying that the police commissioner has to do what is best to protect the integrity of the Police Force. Anything seems contrary can result in the police union taking a tough stand against it.

3. Politicians do flip sides on impulse. PO said he will ‘fight to the last breath’. He was on the back foot again the other day withdrawing all court proceedings. Vaki, has to put his thinking hat on. He is a learnt person. He will not want to be PO’s toilet tissue (to wipe his stinky poo and flush it down the toilet).

PO had his chance to fight the WoA. He has made his case. He waved his rights about. He chose Waigani to be his battle field and lost (and surrendered). All along he created factions within the police, he disbanded TSF, he dismissed Sam Koim, he (through Vaki) suspended Lawyer Miviri and senior officers Eluh and Kauba.

Vaki’s Right Call: Now it is time to move the battle field to Konedobu. Vaki must lift the suspension on Miviri, Kauba and Eluh. Let these men, including Koim and TFS, carry on from where they left: Arrest Peter O’Neill and bring him in for questioning. LET THE LAW TAKE ITS COURSE

Quotations From Senior Citizens About Peter Oneill

1. HEAD OF THE ANGLICAN CHURCH 

"If the Prime Minister, Peter O’Neill had submitted to the rule of law, his innocence would have been proven three weeks ago. But instead he had engaged his lawyers – to stay the warrant of arrest,’’[Archbishop Clyde Igara]

2. POLICE ASSOCIATION GENERAL SECRETARY

"It is politicians that have created this unnecessary misdemeanour. They are cherry pickers who are here today and gone tomorrow. The police force is here to stay and police officers will give a lifetime upholding the rule of law and the constitution." [Clemence Kanau]

3. POLICE ASSOCIATION GENERAL SECRETARY 

"He should shut his mouth and swallow his temporary pride," Mr Kanau said of Mr Isikiel when he referred to officers investigating O’Neill as ‘rogue cops’.

4. SACKED ATTORNEY GENERAL 

Police Commissioner Geoffrey Vaki now has no legal discretion but to arrest Prime Minister Peter O’Neill. [Kerenga Kua]

5. NATIONAL COURT JUDGE 

"I find this submission to be speculative and without proper evidentiary basis,” Judge Ere Kariko said when refusing submissions by the prime minister’s lawyer regarding a "rift" in the ranks of the police force.

6. CHIEF MAGISTRATE - DISTRICT COURT 

"Courts can only interfere when there is a clear case of abuse," [Nerrie Eliakim explanation on Vaki’s application to discontinue warrant of arrest on Peter O’Neill]

7. CHAIRMAN – TASK FORCE SWEEP "When our leaders raised wild allegations and branded us as politically compromised, I did not respond because that would be seen as self preservation. I waited for the competent authority to vindicate us which the court had done." [Sam Koim ]

Members of Parliament Implicated on Corruption Charges - Stats: 3 Convicted, 7 Referred by OC, 8 Arrested and 1 Evaded Arrest

Leadership Tribunals will test evidence submitted by OC
[Google Images]

UPDATED 13.04.2015

MP's AT COURT
- Nearly 30% of all Ministers (& Vice Ministers) running PNG are at court
- Nearly 20% of all MP's in PNG's 9th parliament are at court

List of MPs (20/108 or 19%) in 9th parliament at court:

So far the following Members of Parliament have been refereed by OC:

1. Hon. Prime Minister Peter O'Neill - Ialibu Pangia (NEC) [PNC]
2. Hon. Ben Micah - Kavieng (NEC) [PPP]
3. Hon. Deliha Gore - Soho (NEC) [PNC]
4. Hon. Boka Kondra - North Fly (NEC) [PNC]
5. Hon. Ronny Knight - Manus [N.G]
6. Hon. Sir Puka Temu - Abau (NEC) [O.D]
7. Hon. James Lagea - Kagua Erave (Vice Minister)
8. Hon. Patrick Pruaitch - Aitape-Lumi (NEC) [NA]
9. Hon. Francis Awesa - Imbonngu (NEC) [PNC]
10. Hon. Belden Namah - Vanimo Green [PNG]

Several MPs have been implicated in corruption/bribery cases (apart from Peter O'Neill-listed above, where no arrest was made) include the following:

11. Paul Tiensten - Pomio, jailed, new elections being held
12. Hon. Francis Potape-Komo-Margarima, jailed, pend appeal [PNC]
13. Hon. Havila Kavo - Gulf, bailed, pend appeal [PUA]
14. Hon. John Simon - Maprick, bailed, case pending [NA]
15. Hon. Gordon Wesley - Samarai, (bribery), sacked, pend appeal [PNC]
16. Hon. Ati Wobiro - Western, bailed, case pending [PNC]
17. Hon. John Hickey - Bogia, bailed, case pending [NA]
18. Hon. Don Poyle-Kandep, parakagate pending (NEC at time) [THE]
19. Hon. Jame Marape-Tari, parakagate pending (NEC) [PNC]
20. Hon. Anton Yagama-Usino (contempt), bailed, pend appeal [URP]

Election petition cases pending court determination:

# Hon. Don Poyle - Kandep, election petition pending
# Hon. Nixon Duban-Madang, election petition pending
# Hon. Paias Wingti - WHP, election petition pending
# Hon. Amkat Mai, WSP, ousted, new elections
# Hon. Powes Parkop, election petition pending
# Hon. David Arore, Ijivitari, election petition pending

Note:111 total seats less Goilala Open, West Sepik Open & Pomio makes 108

This was the earlier post...

17% (19/111) of all MPs in 9th parliament implicated in corruption charges

So far the following Members of Parliament have been refereed by OC:

 1. Hon. Prime Minister Peter O'Neill - Ialibu Pangia

 2. Hon. Ben Micah - Kavieng

 3. Hon. Deliha Gore - Soho

 4. Hon. Boka Kondra - North Fly

 5. Hon. Ronny Knight - Manus 

 6. Hon. Sir Puka Temu - Abau 

 7. Hon. James Lagea - Kagua Erave

 8. Hon. Patrick Pruaitch - Aitape-Lumi

 9. Hon. Francis Awesa - Imbonngu

3 MPs have been convicted of corruption:

 10. Paul Tiensten - Pomio, convicted & jailed, new elections being held

 11. Hon. Francis Potape - Komo-Margarima, convicted and jailed, appeal pending

 12. Hon. Havila Kavo - Gulf, convicted, jailed and bailed, appeal pending

7 MPs have been implicated in corruption/bribery cases (apart from Peter O'Neill, where no arrest was made) include the following:

 13. Hon. John Simon - Maprick, bailed, case pending

 14. Hon. Gordon Wesley - Samarai, (bribery), sacked, appeal pending

 15. Hon. Ati Wobiro - Western, bailed, case pending

 16. Hon. John Hickey - Bogia, bailed, case pending

 17. Hon. Don Poyle - Kandep, paraka gate, case stalled

 18. Hon. Jame Marape, Tari, paraka gate, case stalled

 19. Hon. Anton Yagama - Usino, (contempt), bailed, pending appeal

5 Election petition cases pending:

 1. Hon. Don Poyle - Kandep, election petition pending 

 2. Hon. Nixon Duban-Madang, election petition pending 

 3. Hon. Paias Wingti - WHP, election petition pending

 4. Hon. Amkat Mai, WSP, Ousted, election petition appeal pending

 5. Hon. Powes Parkop, election petition pending

By Anna Gerato Suckling on PNG New Page