Public Solicitor sworn in

Acting Public Solicitor Leslie Mamu has been appointed Public Solicitor, a constitutional office that provides legal aid to the people of Papua New Guinea.

Mamu was sworn in by Chief Justice Sir Salamo Injia on Friday in Port Moresby.

The office of the Public Solicitor provides legal aid service ranging from criminal to civil, including family law.

Since the elevation of the former Public Solicitor (now Justice) Jim Wala Tamate to the National and Supreme Court bench, Leslie Mamu, was the acting Public Solicitor.

He was appointed Public Solicitor on July 30 by the Judicial and Legal Services Commission.

Mamu was sworn into office after making his declaration of loyalty and office before Chief Justice Sir Salamo Injia, in the presence of his family, friends, and officers from the Public Solicitor’s. 

“The office has been well served by previous public solicitors appointed to that office and that will continue with the new appointee,” says Chief Justice Sir Salamo.

He said the challenges in running that office are changing all the time, with the people demanding high service and standards.

“I know that Mr Mamu is a young officer unlike his precursors, who were appointed later in their experienced life. Mr Mamu’s young and is talented but he does have the experience to lead the office.

“Congratulations Mr Mamu and the judiciary looks forward to working with you and your office in conducting various public interest litigations that are now before the courts,” Sir Salamo added. 

Mamu has had nine years of practice as a lawyer. He has also written a number of books.

He says the office is important for the little people and will continue to maintain the service on behalf of the people.

“Although I am appointed, I obviously need the support of the team that we have. It’s a very good team, and I acknowledge the show of support by being present today,” he said.

Author: 
Sally Pokiton