FORMER acting Simbu provincial administrator Joe Kunda yesterday assumed office after the Waigani National Court nullified Joe Bal’s 2005 appointment on Monday.
Simbu Governor Fr John Garia said that pending clarification on the legality of the court decision, Mr Kunda would be the provincial administrator.
“I am prepared to work with any public servant,” he said.
Kundiawa-Gembogl MP Joe Mek Teine thanked Fr Garia for accepting Mr Kunda and lauded provincial police commander Supt Joseph Tondop and his men for maintaining peace and order in the province.
He also thanked Mr Kunda’s supporters for not resorting to violence while the matter was being fought out in the courts.
“Leaders including myself and Mr Kunda condemn violence and advocate for peace and harmony in the province. We thank you for your non-violent behaviour,” he told the crowd outside the gates of the Kondom Agaundo provincial government building.
Mr Kunda said he went to the court not to challenge Mr Bal but the manner in which he was appointed by the National Executive Council two years ago.
“I am a law-abiding citizen and I will cooperate with public servants and the governor to serve the people,” he said.