Attorney General denies making derogatory comments against PNG judiciary

Minister for Justice and Attorney General Pila Niningi has denied making any derogatory or disrespectful statements against national judges and the judiciary.

In a statement issued while on official duty overseas, the Attorney General responded to the Post Courier’s front-page article published yesterday, saying his remarks were taken out of context and sensationalized.

Niningi said his comments were not intended to undermine, scandalize, or interfere with the judiciary. He explained that his original remarks, made during the swearing in of a new resident judge in Hela Province, focused on concerns over delayed judgments and the enforcement of timelines by the Judicial and Legal Services Commission.

According to Niningi, he had highlighted the need for judges to deliver reserved decisions in a timely manner. He clarified the comments were centred on the government's continued support for the judiciary and were never meant to target or discredit any individual judge.

The Attorney General also acknowledged the concerns raised by Governor General Sir Bob Dadae, the PNG Law Society, and other stakeholders. However, he firmly denied ever accusing national judges of practicing bias, nepotism, or the ‘wantok system’.

He reiterated his respect to all national judges who have contributed immensely to the delivery of justice in our country.

Niningi stated that he plans to hold a formal press conference upon his return to the country this week to address the issue further.

As the chief legal advisor to the State and a lawyer by profession, he understands and upholds the doctrine of the separation of powers, claiming that he has never overstepped his role.

The Attorney General outlined his ministry’s efforts to advocate for better working conditions for judges and to push for court reforms, including an increase in the number of judges to meet growing demands on the judiciary.

Niningi reaffirmed his respect for both national and foreign judges, praising their dedication to upholding the rule of law.

He apologized, reclaiming that his words were misinterpreted and was never intended to offend the judiciary system.