The prime minister has come out to defend the decision into the selection of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) acting Commissioners in light of commentaries criticizing and accusing the government of having a hand in the selection process.
In a statement released by his office, Prime Minister James Marape said his Government does not interfere with the daily operations of the ICAC and has called on Papua New Guineans to respect the constitutional, transparent and merit-based processes governing appointments to the Commission.
He made the statement following public and political commentary concerning recent changes to ICAC’s Acting Leadership, including the appointment of Retired Judge Don Sawong as Acting Commissioner and the appointment of Mr. Thomas Eluh and Retired Justice Ellenas Batari as Acting Deputy Commissioners.
The Prime Minister said the Leadership arrangements were made by the legally constituted ICAC Appointments Committee and were not unilateral decisions made by him or by the Executive Government.
“Let me make it absolutely clear that my Government, under my watch, does not interfere with or impose itself upon the everyday operations of ICAC,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“The former substantive Commissioner and Deputy Commissioners, as well as the present Acting Leadership, can confirm that I have never directed ICAC on whom to investigate, how to conduct its investigations or how to discharge its Constitutional responsibilities.
ICAC is an independent Constitutional institution. Its operational independence must be protected and respected by everyone, including the Government, the Opposition, Political Parties and the wider Public.”
Prime Minister Marape said Commentary suggesting that Mr. Eluh had been improperly removed or demoted from the position of Acting Commissioner failed to recognise the Legal qualifications and processes governing appointments to the Office.
Meantime, the prime minister said supporters of the People’s National Congress (PNC) Party and others questioning the decision should seek accurate information about the Appointment Process before making politically motivated allegations.
“I have seen too many Commentaries from PNC Party supporters questioning why Mr. Eluh, who was Acting Commissioner, is now serving as an Acting Deputy Commissioner,” he said.
“People must first understand the due process and merit requirements for these Appointments. The Leader of the Opposition, James Nomane, is a senior member of the ICAC Appointments Committee. Those raising political concerns should also ask the Opposition Leader about the process because these are not decisions made by the Prime Minister alone.”
The ICAC Appointments Committee includes the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition and other designated Members responsible for considering Candidates emerging from the independent Recruitment and Shortlisting process.
