PNG Law Society defends Madang law firm over garnishee dispute

Saturday, 1 November 2025, 10:50 am

PNG Law Society President, Hubert Namani (Image: Supplied)

The Papua New Guinea Law Society has come to the defense of a Madang law firm accused of garnishing the accounts of a District Development Authority [DDA].

The law firm had obtained a court order from the Madang National Court to seize funds from the DDA's accounts.

The issue was raised in Parliament this week, prompting the Law Society to issue a statement clarifying the matter.

The Law Society says the law firm in Madang had acted within the bounds of the law and followed due process.

The PNG Law Society's President, Hubert Namani, says DDAs are corporate bodies that may sue and be sued, and therefore are subject to lawful court orders.

He emphasized the importance of respecting the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary.

Mr Namani added that if grievances exist, they must be addressed through the courts.

The Law Society's defense of the law firm has highlighted the importance of upholding the integrity of the legal system in Papua New Guinea.

President Namani has reminded the public and members of Parliament to respect the decisions of the courts and not to stir public discussions that will undermine confidence in the country's judicial system.