PRIME Minister Sir Michael Somare yesterday expressed sadness on learning of the death of Justice Moses Jalina.
Sir Michael said the death of Justice Jalina was a setback to the Judiciary Services in PNG and the people of Enga who have lost a dedicated judge.
“Papua New Guinea has lost a highly respected judge of the National Court. Justice Jalina was a man who had served his country loyally and with distinction as a government lawyer and a later as a judge,” he said in a statement.
The Prime Minister said Justice Jalina was also an example of the commitment by a lawyer who gave his life to serve the government and people of Papua New Guinea.
“Today, where better paid jobs in the private law firms contribute to a high turnover of government lawyers, Justice Jalina was an example of dedication and selfless service. He could have gone into private practice or joined a private legal firm but he chose instead, to serve the people of Papua New Guinea as a government lawyer.
“I extend my sincere condolences to his wife and children and the people of Maprik in the East Sepik, who have lost a fine son.”
Maprik MP Gabriel Kapris described the judge’s death as a great loss to province and PNG and the judiciary.
“I know him personally and am saddened by his sudden death. His valuable years of experience will be missed by the bench and the people of Enga where he was based,” Mr Kapris said.
Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister Sam Abal described Justice Jalina as a no-nonsense judge, who played a vital role in helping to change the community in Wabag through church activities and also in the court room.
Mr Abal said Justice Jalina was a humble public servant and a man of God who helped drive the work of churches in Wabag since 2001. He and his wife were involved in women and youth activities in Wabag.
“He is deeply respected in Enga and his untimely death is a big shock to all of us. He took up the challenge to come to our province as the first resident judge, and I want to thank him for the wonderful work he did in the province.”