Queries over appointment

 By ELIZABETH MIAE

EAST Sepik leaders are demanding an explanation from Public Service Minister Sir Puka Temu, pictured,  on when a permanent provincial administrator will be appointed.

Ambunti-Dreikikir MP Ezekiel Anisi told Parliament on Monday that the provincial government had reportedly not submitted the five short-listed candidates provided by the Public Service Commission for recommendation to the minister. 

Anisi said there were allegations that the provincial government had extended the appointment of the acting provincial administrator, thus making the appointment process a laughing stock.

Sir Puka told Parliament that the decision to change the acting provincial administrator was made following a request from the provincial executive council.

He said due processes were followed. 

The law stipulates that if the provincial executive council (PEC) believes that an acting provincial administrator is not performing, it can recommend to the minister to appoint another acting administrator.

Sir Puka said the permanent position was advertised when the new acting administrator took office. 

“The way we do business here is that we respect the decision of the PEC,” he said.

“The advertisement and shortlist of candidates went through the process.”

Sir Puka said he was waiting for the council to recommend to him one of the five candidates from which he will appoint a provincial administrator.