The National Court of Papua New Guinea has recently ruled to dismiss a legal challenge filed by former Deputy Governor Sammy Missen regarding the election of the Governor of New Ireland Province. The ruling confirms that Walter Schnaubelt was lawfully elected and will continue to serve as the legitimate governor.
The decision was handed down by National Court Judge Stephen Coates on July 4 in the capital, Port Moresby. Judge Coates ruled that the originating summons filed by Missen on April 10 was “frivolous or vexatious and an abuse of legal process,” and therefore dismissed the case.
The court further ordered Missen to cover the legal costs of all the defendants, either through mutual agreement or as assessed by the court.
The defendants in the case included Namatanai MP Walter Schnaubelt, Kavieng MP Ian Ling-Stuckey, Kavieng Urban Local Level Government (LLG) President Greg Toxy Seth, Sentral Niu Ailan LLG President Ben Sakbua, Namatanai LLG President Joshua Soi Takin, Matalai LLG President Augustine Topi, Konoagil LLG President Issac Tosel, Lovongai LLG President Andrew Minkiong, and New Ireland Provincial Assembly Clerk Ao Ure.
Schnaubelt, during an electoral visit to Samo Two village in the Nimamar LLG area on July 6, publicly informed his constituents of the court’s decision.
“The challenge brought forward by Missen regarding my election as governor has been lawfully dismissed by the court. This is not my opinion — it is the ruling of the National Court,” he stated.
He emphasized, “My nomination and election were carried out in full accordance with the laws of Papua New Guinea. The court has confirmed the legality and legitimacy of that process.”
This ruling not only reaffirms the legitimacy of New Ireland Province’s political leadership but also highlights the strong stance taken by Papua New Guinea’s judiciary in upholding constitutional order and preventing abuse of the legal system.
Governor Schnaubelt reaffirmed his commitment to the continued development of New Ireland Province and pledged to work closely with all levels of government to improve the well-being of the people.
