9 May 2003

Former PNG Cabinet Minister found not guilty of misconduct

4:14 pm on 9 May 2003

Former Papua New Guinea Finance and Rural Development Minister, Andrew Kumbakor, has been found not guilty of misconduct by the Leadership Tribunal.

Mr Kumbakor had faced 16 charges over claims he misused vehicle allowances of around 18 thousand US dollars, and Gaming Control Board cheques of 16 thousand US dollars.

The tribunal, presided over by Justice Salamo Injia, who was assisted by two magistrates, dismissed the charges.

But the tribunal has recommended that Mr Kumbakor's former secretary, Fabian Muip, be prosecuted for contempt.

Muip was the star witness for the prosecution.

He had been sacked by Mr Kumbakor in 1999 over claims he cashed a two thousand US dollar cheque without approval.