Restoring Confidence in the Rule of Law in Papua New Guinea – a letter of gratitude to the PNG Judiciary
Dear Honorable Members of the Papua New Guinea Judiciary,
I pen this letter with profound gratitude and a renewed sense of hope for our beloved nation. Your recent judgment in the matter of embezzlement offenses has not only delivered justice but has also provided our people with a significant reassurance in the rule of law. Your perspective on the impact and seriousness of these offenses, along with their broader implications for Papua New Guinea, is deeply appreciated.
Your wisdom and diligence in assessing the gravity of these embezzlement offenses are commendable. In Paragraphs 38 to 43 of the ruling [CR (FC) No. 118 OF 2019 The State V Paul Paraka] concluded on the 4th of October 2023, you eloquently articulated the profound ramifications of such acts, going beyond mere financial losses. You astutely recognized that the stolen funds were not just numbers on paper but represented the aspirations of our citizens for a better future. The fact that these funds belonged to the Independent State of Papua New Guinea and its people is a sentiment that resonates deeply with all of us.
Your words, “The loss of State monies is not some abstract concept. It has real and enduring social and economic impacts even if it is difficult to quantify them,” encapsulate the heartache and suffering endured by our citizens due to these ongoing embezzlement offenses. Your empathy for the victims, even when they could not be present to share their stories, demonstrates your commitment to ensuring justice prevails.
Furthermore, your acknowledgment of the far-reaching consequences of such crimes on public confidence is highly perceptive. It is essential for our people to trust in the institutions that govern our nation. Your statement that these offenses reflected poorly on the Office of the Solicitor-General and the State lawyers, and the collaboration with individuals within the Department of Finance, resonates deeply with our collective concerns. The erosion of public confidence is a matter of grave concern, especially during times when government resources are scarce and corruption is on the rise.
Your recognition of the potential impact on Papua New Guinea’s international standing and its ability to attract foreign investments is a stark reminder of the global implications of these crimes. Your wisdom serves as a beacon for those who seek to uphold the integrity of our nation on the international stage.
Lastly, your acknowledgment of the prevalence and increasing sophistication of such offenses underscores the challenges we face as a society. Your vigilance in addressing these issues head-on is a testament to your dedication to the well-being of Papua New Guinea and its people.
In conclusion, Honorable Members of the Papua New Guinea Judiciary, your judgment has not only restored confidence in the rule of law but has also rekindled hope for a brighter future. Your unwavering commitment to justice and your understanding of the broader implications of these embezzlement offenses have left an indelible mark on our nation. We, the citizens of Papua New Guinea, extend our heartfelt thanks for your invaluable service to our beloved country.
With the utmost respect and gratitude,
Meck J. Minnala
On Behalf of the Citizens
Disclaimer:
I, Meck Minnala, the author of the letter of gratitude addressed to the Papua New Guinea Judiciary, hereby solemnly declare and clarify the following:
- I have no personal issues, grievances, or grudges of any nature with the offender who was recently sentenced by the Judiciary.
- My intent in expressing gratitude through the letter is solely based on the Judiciary’s role in restoring confidence in the rule of law and the broader implications of the sentencing for the people of Papua New Guinea.
- I hold the utmost respect for the offender as a senior citizen of our country, and my letter is in no way meant to diminish his standing or character.
- The purpose of the letter is to acknowledge the Judiciary’s dedication to justice and its significant impact on our nation’s well-being.
- The letter is a sincere expression of hope and appreciation for the positive change that has been brought about by the Judiciary’s actions.
I make this declaration voluntarily and without any external influence.
Signed,
Mr. Meck Minnala
08/10/2022
Balcony Perspectives 