By Rex Kiponge – Former Managing Director & CEO, National Airports Corporation Limited.
THE past two years have been a profound testament to the strength and independence of Papua New Guinea’s judicial system.
“As I reflect on my journey through what can only be described as a coordinated attempt to remove me from my position as Managing Director and CEO of the National Airports Corporation (NAC), I feel compelled to share my story with the people of Papua New Guinea.”
In late 2022, I found myself at the center of what would become a series of unsubstantiated legal charges. The events began dramatically when police officers, in breach of all aviation security protocols, entered the restricted tarmac area of Jacksons Domestic Terminal to arrest me upon my return flight from Mt Hagen to Port Moresby on November 21, 2022. This unprecedented breach of airport security led me, as the responsible CEO, to temporarily suspend domestic flights the following day to conduct mandatory safety protocol sweeps – a decision for which I was subsequently charged with abuse of office.
The charges levied against me were numerous and severe. They included allegations of abuse of office, conspiracy to commit a crime, and official corruption under various sections of the Criminal Code Act. Additional charges were filed under Section 280(b) of the Civil Aviation Act 2000. These charges primarily centered around routine executive decisions made within my capacity as MD and CEO, including the management of ministerial funds allocated to the Minister for Transport and Civil Aviation – funds that were part of NAC’s standard operational framework.
What became evident throughout the legal proceedings was the systematic dismantling of these charges when subjected to judicial scrutiny. The Committal Court, in its wisdom, dismissed multiple cases due to insufficient evidence and procedural defects. The final dismissal came on December 2, 2024, marking the end of this challenging chapter in my professional life.
Perhaps most telling was the National Court’s finding that my suspension from office was unlawful. I had been appointed to a four-year contract as Managing Director and CEO, a term I was not permitted to fulfill due to these orchestrated actions. This ruling underscored the concerning reality that powerful interests can sometimes manipulate administrative and legal processes for their own objectives.
Throughout this ordeal, I maintained my faith in our judicial system, and that faith has been vindicated. The courts, from the District level to the Supreme Court, demonstrated their independence and commitment to justice. They meticulously examined each charge and made their decisions based on evidence and law, not on political pressure or personal interests.
This experience has reinforced my belief in the importance of strong, independent institutions in our democracy. While some may attempt to weaponize state institutions for personal gain, our judicial system stands as a bulwark against such manipulation. The courts have proven that justice, though sometimes delayed, will prevail when the charges are baseless and politically motivated.
“I want to express my gratitude to the judicial system of Papua New Guinea for upholding the principles of justice and fair hearing. Their decisions have not only cleared my name but have also set important precedents for protecting public officials who face similar situations while carrying out their lawful duties.”
“Today, I continue to serve our nation as First Secretary to the Minister for Finance, Hon. Miki Kaeok, MP. This experience has only strengthened my commitment to public service and good governance. I share my story not to seek sympathy, but to demonstrate to all Papua New Guineans that our judicial system, despite challenges, remains a strong guardian of justice and fairness.”
“Let my experience serve as both a warning about the potential for abuse of state powers and a reassurance that our judicial system stands ready to protect against such abuse. As we move forward, I remain committed to the development and progress of our nation, now with an even deeper appreciation for the importance of justice and the rule of law in our democratic society.”
