Papua New Guinea is mourning the death of its first female judge, Justice Catherine Davani.
The Papua New Guinea Supreme Court. Photo: RNZ / Johnny Blades
Justice Davani, who was appointed a judge in 2001, passed away in a hospital in Brisbane on Friday after a battle with breast cancer.
She had been continuing her duties working in PNG's National and Supreme Courts until recently.
The prime minister Peter O'Neill paid tribute to Justice Davani for her esteemed service to ensuring the rule of law in PNG.
Mr O'Neill said her career provided a benchmark for the empowerment of women.
"Girls all around the nation can look to the example she set and aspire to break through barriers and be everything they want to be in their careers," he said.
Chief Justice, Sir Salamo Injia is expected to make a statement on Justice Davani in the next day or so.
