NEC gives in to Western in tussle over admin job

By CLIFFORD FAIPARIK
THE National Executive Council has reversed its appointment of Aquila Sampson as the provincial administrator of Western and accepted Governor Taboi Awi Yoto’s choice of Robert Alphonse Kaiyun.
Public Service Minister Elias Kapavore said Kaiyun had been appointed to the position.
“The NEC’s decision to appoint Sampson as provincial administrator two months ago was sternly opposed by Governor Yoto and the members of the provincial executive council,” Kapavore said.
“Prime Minister Peter O’Neill and my department were presented a petition from the Western PEC soon after the NEC made the decision to appoint Sampson as PA. He was their second preferred candidate,” Kapavore said.
“They indicated legal challenges and other actions to prevent (Sampson) from assuming office.
“They maintained that Kaiyun (who is currently acting) is to continue the important initiatives and interventions already taking place in Western, especially his ability to instill confidence and order in public servants, a missing factor in the province for many years.”
Kapavore said the NEC had appointed Sampson because of his experience in international law and having worked with the Department of Justice and Attorney-General for some time.
“I had a few meetings with the good governor and his PEC members on the NEC decision. However, they remain adamant for the change.”
Kapavore said they decided to give in to Yoto’s demand for the sake of political stability in Western.
“That province has had its fair history of tussles in provincial administrators with numerous court battles.
“We do not wish to repeat the past. I appeal for mutual understanding as the new PA assumes his role”.