Dr Vele Pat Ila’ava

Former Secretary, Dr Vele Pat Ila’ava, took out the injunctive order yesterday from the Waigani National Court.

His lawyers made an application in court on Tuesday, seeking to temporarily stop the NEC from making any substantive appointment to the post, pending a judicial review.

The Judicial review has been fixed for October 5 before Justice Leka Nablu.

On June 13, the Waigani National Court granted leave to Ila’ava to file for judicial review, which will look into the process of appointment.

He asked the court to stay the acting appointment following advertisements that have been made since his appointment was revoked on March 29.

He claims an appraisal was not done against his performance prior to the advertisements going out.

Almost two months later, he filed the application seeking stay on the appointment.

With his contract due to expire on June 27 and the position still advertised, the National Court says that does not stop him from re-applying for the position.

He has been served a letter by Minister Benny Allan to respond and remain in office as secretary.

The secretary has welcomed the letter, saying it is in the best interest of the sector that he does so.

Minister Allan said Dr Ila’ava is a career public servant and must be given the opportunity to respond.

His response will be forwarded to Public Service Minister Elias Kapavore, who will look at the seriousness of the allegations and decide if an investigation should be carried out.

“I think the Government has finally got it right because in the last 30 years, we have been investing in mining and LNG but nothing was happening.    

“I thank this Government for putting agriculture as number one economic priority,” Dr Vele said.

Dr Vele revealed that in the Alotau Accord II, the Government prioritised agriculture, tourism and infrastructure compared to the previous term where the Government placed emphasis on education, health and infrastructure.