Why a Foreign ICAC Commissioner is Wanted in PNG?

By: Peter Jaymogs Tulapi

People might wonder why our Prime Minister is suggesting a foreigner to run the newly established Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) here in PNG.

Three (3) simple reasons here should justify this important call from PMJM:

ICAC is a new creature.
No PNGean has any experience in ICAC.
Deeply rooted ‘Wantok System’.

The first reason above clearly indicates that ICAC is a monster created to detect and exterminate corruption in PNG. To do so, an experienced expatriate is required to handle this beast. If not handled properly, it may attack anyone (corrupt or innocent) in its way.

The second latter reason suggests that NO PNGean has or had any experience whatsoever in handling this beast, even if one has learnt about it or had a little bit of training. It further suggests sourcing experiences in Sydney based ICAC in NSW, Australia and Hong Kong based ICAC. Or sourcing experience from our next door neighbour Indonesia’s KPK ICAC model. There are lessons (both positive and negative) that PNG can learn from them.

The third reason suggests that our “Wantok System” is deeply rooted and would have negative impact on an effective implementation of the ICAC. If the beast handler is a Wantok, the alleged corrupt offender may ask the handler to divert the attention of the beast to someone innocent or stall the investigation, arrest and hence prosecution. The beast handler must be clear of Wantoks in order to detect and attack corruption effectively in a setting like PNG.

To fight with corruption here in PNG, an experienced ICAC handler from overseas is urgently required for a start.

After 5 years or so, PNGeans may handle this beast themselves.