31 Jan 2012

PNG's O'Neill plans vigorous defence against contempt charges

2:31 pm on 31 January 2012

Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister Peter O'Neill has issued a statement saying he will vigorously defend the contempt charges filed by Sir Micheal Somare.

Sir Michael has filed charges against the Prime Minister Peter O'Neill and his cabinet, accusing them of defying December's Supreme Court ruling that Sir Michael was unlawfully removed from office in August.

The National reports Mr O'Neill saying his government would mount a vigorous defence in court.

He said Sir Michael's actions and those of his MPs were those of a desperate group trying to cling to power.

He says they have failed to turn up in Parliament to deal with the issue choosing to remain outside and create instability.