By JACINTA DOKTA
CONSULTATIVE Implementation and Monitoring Council chairman and Minister for National Planning Sir Ano Pala said a hard reset is necessary to strengthen the rule of law in the country.
Sir Pala said this during the opening of the National Development Forum themed at: Strengthening the Rule of Law: A Roadmap for Future Generation at the APEC Haus yesterday (Wednesday 02 April, 2025).
“I say a hard reset because the rule of law is a fundamental of a functioning democratic society, ensuring that laws are applied impartially, protecting individual rights and liberties while maintaining social order,” said Sir Pala.
“This will demand comprehensive reforms, stakeholder engagements and a deep commitment to upholding justice.”
Sir Pala added that as the country prepares to celebrate its 50th independent anniversary, the country needs to take a hard look at itself by acknowledging its successes, failures and to take necessary actions to ensure the integrity and effectiveness of the legal system.
Pala said the country has had its fair share of issues and challenges but it has progressed towards nationhood for 50 years.
“Let’s look back and assess our strengths and successes as a way forward from now and into the next 50 years,” he said.
Sir Pala also stressed that the country’s foundation to strengthening the rule of law is founded in the founding document which is the National Constitution.
He pointed out that the PNG Constitution provides the foundation for the rule of law, highlighting that section 99 of the constitution provides the principles of separation of powers.
“These three arms of government must be kept separate and independent of each other. They work to serve the public and citizens of the country and they provide checks and balances and oversight on each other,” said Sir Pala.
“The constitution enshrines the rule of law under section 35, protection of the law and section 42 liberty of the person,” he stressed.
Pala drew two important elements that provides for rights of individuals; punishment or penalties for law breakers and equality before law, stating that penalties can only be imposed accordingly through law and only by courts; no man is punishable expect for a breach of law and if found guilty by the courts.
Sir Pala concluded by pledging his support to CIMC to work together to develop a roadmap that has respect for the rule of law now and into the future.
“As the chairman of the CIMC council, I will also look into CIMC’s internal challenges so that it can continue to do its great work sustainably, including ensuring adequate funding support,” said Pala.
Pala recapped by stating that a hard reset is necessary to strengthen the rule of law as it’s not only a legislative or institutional challenge but a societal imperative.
“Through comprehensive and sustained efforts, we can restore the rule of law and ensure justice and equality over rule to foster a stable and peaceful environment where real democracy envisioned and enshrined in our National Constitution can shine,” said Pala.