The governor of the Papua New Guinea province of Enga has been referred to the Public Prosecutor for alleged misconduct in office over his annual statements and use of public funds.
Peter Ipatas' referral arises from investigations relating to six annual statements from the 1994-1995 financial year through to 1999-2000.
It alleges use of public funds from the Enga Provincial Government to settle his private legal costs, use of his 1999 Provincial Grant for personal use and that of his family company and alleged disbursement of his 2000 Grant funds to associates.
The Chief Ombudsman Ila Geno says Mr Ipatas failed to declare all his assets, liabilities, income and accounts in those statements.
