Title: “PNG’s Biggest Corruption Case: Ex-Solicitor-General Neville Devete Speaks Out After Paul Paraka’s Conviction”
Neville Devete’s Relief and Satisfaction Over Paul Paraka’s Conviction
In an interview with the ABC, Neville Devete, the former Solicitor-General of Papua New Guinea who laid the complaints that led to the biggest corruption prosecution in the country’s history, expressed his relief and satisfaction following the recent conviction of prominent lawyer Paul Paraka for misappropriating an estimated $70 million in state funds.
I was elated when I heard the news of the conviction. A significant burden was lifted off my shoulders. The truth finally prevailed, and justice was served.
- Neville Devete
Discovering Massive, Unjustified Payments to Paul Paraka Lawyers (2012)
Devete reported Paraka to the police in 2012 after discovering massive, unjustified payments from the state to Paul Paraka Lawyers. The consequences of his actions were far-reaching.
“Parakagate” and the Impact on Taskforce Sweep
The Paraka case, also known as “Parakagate,” took its toll on the once formidable Taskforce Sweep. During its investigation, the team sought to investigate then-Prime Minister Peter O’Neill’s authorization of additional payments to Paraka Lawyers, only to be met with controversy and resistance.
- Threatened a prime ministership
- Divided the police force
- Fueled a student protest that gained international attention
Fallout and Current Status of Anti-Corruption Efforts in Papua New Guinea
The fallout from the Paraka investigation left the nation’s anti-corruption efforts in a state of limbo. Government funding for multi-agency investigators like Taskforce Sweep was cut, raising concerns about their seriousness in addressing rampant corruption.
Optimism and Impacts from the Paraka Investigation
Despite the challenges, Sam Koim, the former chairman of Taskforce Sweep, expressed optimism about the impact the investigation had made. Improvements in the anti-money laundering space and increased enforcement against suspicious transactions are some of the positive impacts.
Conviction is Not the Final Chapter: Ongoing Investigations
Paraka’s conviction is not the final chapter in the saga. He still faces sentencing and has indicated his intent to appeal the verdict. The identities of those within the Department of Finance who approved and authorized the illegal payments remain unknown, adding another layer of complexity to the case.
The Need for Collective Efforts to Combat Corruption in Papua New Guinea
As Devete reflects on his role in exposing the corruption and the price he and his family have paid, he emphasizes the need for a collective effort to combat corruption in Papua New Guinea.
The fight against corruption cannot be left solely to the police. We all have a responsibility to ensure transparency and accountability in our public institutions.
- Neville Devete