9 Feb 2016

PNG's corrections boss asks for answers from minister over 'sacking'

8:52 pm on 9 February 2016

Papua New Guinea's head of correctional services is calling on his minister to speak up after unconfirmed reports of his sacking.

Bomana prison, PNG

Bomana prison, PNG Photo: Supplied

Michael Waipo, who has been Correctional Services Commissioner since 2014 and is halfway through his term, says he is disappointed he has heard nothing from the Government, and specifically the Corrections Minister Jim Simatab.

Mr Waipo says the first he heard of his sacking were the actions of rogue officers who he says had not turned up to work, but were celebrating the move on Thursday.

He says the news was broken to him on Friday by the Ministry's First Secretary, Ted Sitapai.

"I do not have any information on any accusations that have been levelled against me. Nor do I have any formal notice or anything like that, which leaves me more or less in the dark. What I have done that is not right, according to them, and I know that that will bring me to maybe respond, so natural justice, it's not done."

Michael Waipo says he respects any decision and will comply, and there is no need for any confrontation.