Papua New Guinea’s influential petroleum minister Jimmy Maladina has been charged with assault following an alleged “home dispute” in Australia, in accordance with courtroom paperwork.
Police stated a 31-year-old girl was allegedly attacked in Sydney by a 58-year-old man who was identified to her on Saturday morning native time.
Mr Maladina was granted conditional bail forward of a courtroom look on 11 July.
In a press release, he stated he was “conscious of the current media experiences” and was “cooperating with the authorities to deal with this matter”.
“I perceive the gravity of this case and the considerations it raises,” stated Mr Maladina.
“As a public servant, I maintain myself to excessive requirements of conduct, each personally and professionally.
“I need to make it clear that violence in any type is unacceptable, and I’m dedicated to dealing with this case with integrity and transparency.”
Police stated the girl who was allegedly attacked had suffered facial accidents.
Mr Maladina grew to become Papua New Guinea’s petroleum minister earlier this 12 months and is a key adviser to President James Marape.
He’s closely concerned within the nation’s profitable challenge to commercialise its pure fuel assets.
