New Zealander's deportation from PNG 'corrupt'

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Former PNG prime minister, Sir Michael Somare. Membes of his faction are outraged by Graham Osborne's deportation. [ABC]

Last Updated: Fri, 30 Dec 2011 15:49:00 +1100

A senior member of the Michael Somare camp in Papua New Guinea has deplored the deportation of a New Zealander who is closely connected to the former prime minister.

Sir Michael's attorney general, Sir Arnold Amet told Pacific Beat reasons for deporting Graham Osborne were "vindictive and corrupt".

Foreign Affairs Minister, Jamie Graham said Prime Minister Peter O'Neill had given orders to deport any foreigner who was involved in or meddled in local politics.

But Sir Amet said Mr Osborne had no involvement in the country's politics other than being a friend and associate of Sir Michael and the Somare family.

Mr Osborne was given a warning last week to refrain from adopting the views of the facilities of the hotel that he was managing.

"We are pursuing the recourse that is open to us of seeking consequential of orders," Sir Arnold said.

Sir Arnold insisted that the process of deporting non-citizens was transparent and deportation orders could be appealed.

Mr Osborne has not lodged an appeal yet.

The businessman, who ran a restaurant business at the Ela Beach Hotel in Port Moresby, wsa deported to Australia's northern city of Cairns on Wednesday.

He told Pacific Beat he was upset and confused by the decision.