Separation of powers vital: Dadae

THE separation of powers among the three arms of government, judicial independence and upholding the rule of law are all fundamental pillars of democracy, Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae says.
Sir Bob said this in his opening remarks to registrars, magistrates, judges and court officials from Commonwealth nations who arrived in Port Moresby on Sunday for the 2019 Commonwealth Magistrates and Judges’ Association (CMJA) Conference.
He said in a democratic government system, separation of powers among the three arms of government – the legislature (parliament), the judiciary (courts) and the executive government (National Executive Council) – needed to function independently to uphold democracy.
“Parliament is the legislator and makes the laws and judiciary on the other end is the administrator of the laws and must continue to remain independent to discharge its functions,” Sir Bob said.
“Judiciary is the third arm of government and administers justice for all through the established judiciary system and that is through the courts which is being administered and delivered by magistrates, judges and other support staff.”
Sir Bob urged the judges and magistrates to remain independent and ensure justice was delivered fairly to all people irrespective of circumstances.
“Separation of powers between the three arms of government, judicial independence and maintaining and upholding the rule of laws are all fundamental pillars of our democracy.
“It is the foundation for our societies and is an important matter for all our Commonwealth countries,” he said.
Sir Bob said the judiciary was an independent body and administrator of the law did not have to be subjected to undue influence whether from another arm of government or private interests.