Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso confirms resignation of the Chief Migration Officer
Chief Migration Officer Stanis Hulahau tendered his resignation before the PNG Immigration and Citizenship Services Authority [PNGICSA] Advisory Board discussed his employment future.
In a media statement, deputy Prime Minister John Rosso confirmed the PNGISCA Advisory Board and the National Executive Council accepted his resignation on the 30th of January.
Mr Rosso, minister responsible for Immigration and Border Security said this will not stop investigation into the number of allegations levelled against Mr Hulahau in recent months, including those related to the PNG Humanitarian Program, formerly the Refugee Resettlement Arrangement.
“The Government has engaged KPMG to carry out a forensic audit specifically into the PNG Humanitarian Program, and this will continue, to determine whether or not there is any substance to the allegations.
“The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, and the Independent Commission Against Corruption, are also carrying out their own investigations into other allegations against Mr Hulahau.”
The deputy prime minister, wrote to the PNGICSA Advisory Board on 30 January 2024, and asked them to deliberate on all the allegations relating to the chief migration officer, and determine if he should be suspended while an investigation is conducted.
“The Board met on the same day to deliberate as per my instructions, however, were informed by the chairman Dr Eric Kwa, that Mr Hulahau had tendered his resignation,” Mr Rosso said.
“I had asked the Board to deliberate on the allegations and suspension, to allow for an investigation to take place without the chief migration officer in office, and ensure the integrity of the investigation and any suggestions that would affect the outcome of it. He has however tendered his resignation.
“The NEC also made the decision not to pay out the remainder of Mr. Hulahau’s contract until after the findings of the investigation.”
Deputy Chief Migration Officer Wellington Navasivu, will act as the interim chief migration officer, per the NEC appointment on 31January 2024.
Mr Rosso said “the appointment of the Interim chief migration officer is to ensure continuity of business at PNGICSA.”