Climate Change Development Authority (CCDA) general manager Alfred Rungol has won the case filed by Minister for Environment and Climate Change Simo Kilepa challenging his reinstatement. The Waigani National Court on July 10 ruled that Minister Kilepa and CCDA did not have legal standing to challenge the reinstatement of Mr Rungol and dismissed the case for being frivolous and vexatious. In a significant development, the National Court ruled in favour of Mr Rungol who had been unlawfully terminated from employment which also consequently put him off the ALESCO payroll. The court’s decision upheld Mr. Rungol’s Notice of Motion to dismiss the proceedings, effectively ending the case and also upheld orders for the plaintiff to pay legal costs and incidentals for the proceedings. Napu and Company Lawyers representing Mr Rungol stated in a media statement today that the landmark victory was seen as a major boost to the leadership he had showcased at CCDA in the past 16 years. The law firm stated that Mr. Rungol had worked extensively on climate change issues, including the implications of the Paris Agreement for Papua New Guinea, UNFCCC negotiations, development of climate policies and regulations. “The court’s decision has been welcomed by many from national and international agencies, who see it as a testament to the strength of the judicial system in Papua New Guinea. The case had drawn significant attention, with many following the developments closely,” the statement read. Napu and Company Lawyers maintained that the National Court ruling was a vindication of Mr Rungol’s integrity and expertise, and also a reaffirmation of his position as General Manager of CCDA and one of PNG’s Roster of Experts to UNFCCC.