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headnotet1;}{\s71\ql \li0\ri0\sb120\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs22\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \sbasedon0 \snext71 headnotet2;}{\s72\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 
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{\title Papua New Guinea Law Reports - 1985}{\author Ken Richardson}{\operator Ken Richardson}{\creatim\yr2004\mo8\dy21\hr17\min7}{\revtim\yr2004\mo8\dy21\hr17\min7}{\version2}{\edmins0}{\nofpages1}{\nofwords7324}{\nofchars41748}
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{\*\pnseclvl7\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl8\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl9\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\pard\plain 
\s1\ql \li0\ri0\sb240\sa60\keepn\widctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel0\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \b\f1\fs2\lang1033\langfe1033\kerning36\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid1448258 Papua New Guinea Law Reports - 1985
\par }\pard\plain \s72\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \v\f1\fs2\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\insrsid1448258 [1985] PNGLR 263 - SCR No 2 of 1985; Kevin Masive v Iambakey Okuk and Johannes Kenderop\~ }{
\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s129\qr \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f39\fs32\cf11\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid1448258 [1985] PNGLR 263
\par }\pard\plain \s53\qr \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f39\fs32\cf11\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid1448258 SC301
\par }\pard\plain \s106\qc \li0\ri0\sb180\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \fs32\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cf1\insrsid1448258 PAPUA NEW GUINEA}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s51\qc \li0\ri0\sa240\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \fs28\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cf1\insrsid1448258 [SUPREME COURT OF JUSTICE]}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s46\qc \li0\ri0\sl360\slmult1\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f39\fs48\cf11\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid1448258 SUPREME COURT RESERVATION NO 2 OF 1985
\par KEVIN MASIVE
\par V
\par IAMBAKEY OKUK AND JOHHANNES KENDEROP
\par }\pard\plain \s127\qc \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cf1\insrsid1448258 Waigani}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s75\qc \li0\ri0\sa240\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \b\fs28\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cf1\insrsid1448258 Kidu CJ Pratt Bredmeyer Amet Woods JJ}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s42\qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cf1\insrsid1448258 30 April 1985}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\cf1\insrsid1448258 7 May 1985}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\cf1\insrsid1448258 29 August 1985}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s47\ql \li0\ri0\sb240\sa360\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs139\b\cf13\insrsid1448258 PARLIAMENT }{\cf1\insrsid1448258 
- Elections - Qualifications for - Qualification disputed - Jurisdiction of National Court before polling commenced - Jurisdiction available - Organic Law on National Elections, ss 3, 206 - Constitution, ss 50, 57, 135.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\cs139\b\cf13\insrsid1448258 PARLIAMENT }{\cf1\insrsid1448258 - Elections - Candidates for - Right to stand for election - Right in one properly qualified - Right enforceable against candidate not properly qualified - Constitution, ss 50, 57.}{
\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s66\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Organic Law on National Elections}{
\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 206, provides that \'93the validity of an election or return may be disputed by petition addressed to the National Court and not otherwise\'94.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 135, provides that the \'93National
 Court has jurisdiction to determine any question as to (a) the qualifications of a person to be or to remain a member of Parliament; or the validity of an election to the Parliament\'94.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s70\ql \li0\ri0\sb240\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \b\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cf1\insrsid1448258 Held}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s61\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (1)\~\~\~\~\~ The National Court has jurisdiction to determine a person
\rquote s qualifications to stand as a candidate in an election to the National Parliament after nominations have been declared under the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Organic Law on National Elections}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
, s 92, and before the commencement of polling.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (2)\~\~\~\~\~ The words \'93to be\'94 in the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 135(a), are to be interpreted as meaning \'93to become\'94.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (3)\~\~\~\~\~ The word \'93election\'94 in the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 135(b), is to be interpreted as referring to the declaration of a person to be a successful candidate.}{
\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (4)\~\~\~\~\~ The word \'93election\'94 in the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Organic Law on National Elections}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 206, is to be interpreted as meaning \'93return\'94
 and therefore an election petition can only be filed after the result of an election has been declared.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (5)\~\~\~\~\~ (Obiter) Because the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 50, guarantees a right to a 
citizen qualified to stand for election, to stand in a genuine election, it follows that a citizen properly qualified may seek, pursuant to the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
, s 57, to enforce such a right against a candidate not properly qualified.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s70\ql \li0\ri0\sb240\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \b\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cf1\insrsid1448258 Cases Cited}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s69\ql \li425\ri0\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin425\itap0\ipgp1 \i\fs22\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cf1\insrsid1448258 Gouriet v Union of Post Office Workers [1978] AC 435; [1977] 3 WLR 300; 3 All ER 70.}{
\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\cf1\insrsid1448258 Jababa v Okuk [1983] PNGLR 69.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\cf1\insrsid1448258 Kevin Masive v Iambakey Okuk and Johhannes Kenderop [1985] PNGLR 105.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\cf1\insrsid1448258 McDonald v Keats [1981] 2 NSWLR 268.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\cf1\insrsid1448258 Moresby North East Election Petition, Re; Patterson Lowa v Goasa Damena [1977] PNGLR 429.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\cf1\insrsid1448258 Moresby North East Parliamentary Election Petition (No 2), Re; Goasa Damena v Patterson Lowa [1977] PNGLR 448.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\cf1\insrsid1448258 SCR No 3 of 1984; Kevin Masive v Iambakey Okuk [1984] PNGLR 390.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\cf1\insrsid1448258 Simbu Provincial Election, Re; Okuk v Nilkare [1983] PNGLR 28.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s70\ql \li0\ri0\sb240\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \b\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cf1\insrsid1448258 Reference}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s66\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 This was a reference to the Supreme Court made pursuant to the }{
\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 18(2), on the following question:}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s67\ql \li720\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'93Once nominations have been declared under s 92 of the }{
\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Organic Law on National Elections}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  but before comme
ncement of the polling period, does the National Court have jurisdiction to entertain an application by a candidate questioning the qualification of another candidate?\'94}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s70\ql \li0\ri0\sb240\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \b\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cf1\insrsid1448258 Counsel}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s66\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 I Molloy and G Lay, for the plaintiff.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 D Colquhoun-Kerr, for the first defendant.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 A Tadabe, for the second defendant and the Principal Legal Adviser.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s52\qr \li0\ri0\sa240\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \i\fs22\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cf1\insrsid1448258 Cur adv vult}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s82\qr \li0\ri0\sa240\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 29 August 1985.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs141\b\f0\fs22\cf1\insrsid1448258 KIDU CJ}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 : In this reference made under the }{
\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 18(2), the court is asked to answer the following question:}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s37\ql \li720\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'93Once nominations have been declared under s 92 of the }{
\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Organic Law on National Elections}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
 but before commencement of the polling period, does the National Court have jurisdiction to entertain an application by a candidate questioning the qualification of another candidate?\'94}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 I emphasise from the
 outset that the question this Court is asked to answer is a very specific one. It is concerned with the jurisdiction of the National Court with respect to the determination of a person\rquote 
s qualifications to stand as a candidate in an election to the National Parliament after the close of nominations but before the commencement of polling.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The reference came before the court on 30 April 1985 and the urgency of the matter (polling was to commence on 11 May) required an urgent answer. So on 7 May the court answ
ered the question without publishing reasons. The answer was in the affirmative. We now publish our reasons.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Pratt J and Bredmeyer J have in their joint judgment set out the background of the reference. It is not my intention to cover this same ground.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The jurisdiction of the National Court is provided for in the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 166. It provides as follows:}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s31\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 166.\~\~\~ Jurisdiction of the National Court}{\insrsid1448258 

\par }\pard\plain \s32\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'93(1)\~\~\~
 Subject to this Constitution, the National Court is a court of unlimited jurisdiction.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (2)\~\~\~\~\~ In particular, the National Court has the jurisdiction set out in:}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s33\ql \fi-720\li2880\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2880\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (a)\~\~\~\~\~ Section 22 (}{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
enforcement of the Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 ); and}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (b)\~\~\~\~\~ Subdivision 111.3.D (}{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 enforcement}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 ); and}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (c)\~\~\~\~\~ Section 155 (}{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 the National Judicial System}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 ),}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s39\ql \li2160\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 and otherwise as provided by this Constitution or any other law.\'94}{
\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
Section 135 is not specifically included in s 166 so it is one of the jurisdictions \'93otherwise as provided by this Constitution\'94. It specifically empowers the National Court to entertain questions relating to a person\rquote s qual
ifications to be or to remain a member of the National Parliament:}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s31\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 135.\~\~\~ Questions as to Membership, etc.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s38\ql \li1440\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'93The National Court has jurisdiction to determine any question as to:}{
\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s33\ql \fi-720\li2880\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2880\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (a)\~\~\~\~\~ the qualifications of a person }{
\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 to be}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  or }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 to remain}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  a member of the Parliament; or}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (b)\~\~\~\~\~ the validity of an election to the Parliament.\'94 [Emphasis mine.]}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
There can be no doubt whatsoever that s 135 confers three very distinct jurisdictions on the National Court:}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s31\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (a)\~\~\~\~\~ determination of any question as to a person\rquote 
s qualifications }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 to be}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  a member of the Parliament; and}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (b)\~\~\~\~\~ determination of any question as to a person\rquote s qualifications }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 to remain}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  a member of the Parliament; and}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (c)\~\~\~\~\~ determination of any question as to the validity of an election to the Parliament.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The
 qualifications for and disqualifications from membership of the National Parliament are set out in the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 103. The relevant provisions are subss (1), (2) and (3). They read as follows:}
{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s31\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'93(1)\~\~\~ A member of the Parliament must be not less than 
25 years of age.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (2)\~\~\~\~\~
 A candidate for election to the Parliament must have been born in the electorate for which he intends to nominate or have resided in the electorate for a continuous period of two years immediately preceding his nomination or for a
 period of five years at any time.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (3)\~\~\~\~\~ A person is not qualified }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 to be}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , or }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 to remain}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , a member of the Parliament if:}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s32\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (a)\~\~\~\~\~
 he is not entitled to vote in elections to the Parliament; or}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (b)\~\~\~\~\~ he is of unsound mind within the meaning of any law relating to the protection of the persons and property of persons of unsound mind; or}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (c)\~\~\~\~\~ subject to Subsections (4) to (7), he is under sentence of death or imprisonment for a period of more than nine months; or}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (d)\~\~\~\~\~ he is otherwise disqualified under this Constitution.\'94 [Emphasis mine.]}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
In his submission Mr Colquhoun-Kerr urged the court to treat s 135 as merely an enabling provision and nothing more. The reason, he submitted, was that without s 135 the National Court would have no jurisdiction to 
entertain matters relating to qualifications for a person or persons to be or to remain members of Parliament or matters relating to the validity of an election as these are covered by constitutional laws and the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}
{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 18, says, among other things, that subject to the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
, the Supreme Court has original jurisdiction, to the exclusion of other courts, as to any question relating to the interpretation or application of any provision of a constitutional law. There can be no doubt that s 135 
enables the National Court to determine matters that otherwise would be the exclusive province of the Supreme Court. But s 135 is not a mere enabling provision, it is a grant of power and substantial power at that. To say that it is merely enabling miscon
ceives the true nature of that provision of the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 . I deal with the three categories of power in s 135 by considering the last one first.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s24\ql \li0\ri0\sb240\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \b\f37\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cf1\insrsid1448258 POWER TO DETERMINE THE VALIDITY OF AN ELECTION TO THE PARLIAMENT (S 135(B))}{
\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The extent of this power is dependent on the meaning of \'93election\'94
. It can mean the whole election process from the issue of a writ to the declaration of the result of the election, or the result itself, depending on the context in which the word is used in any particular statutory provision. If \'93election\'94
 in s 135(b) means the whole of the electoral process then I cannot see the reason for s 135(a). It seems to me, therefore, that the word \'93}{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 election}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'94
 in s 135(b) means the declaration of a person to be the successful candidate or member of Parliament.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s24\ql \li0\ri0\sb240\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \b\f37\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cf1\insrsid1448258 
POWER TO DETERMINE THE QUALIFICATIONS OF A PERSON TO REMAIN A MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT (S 135(A))}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
There can be no doubt that this second limb of s 135(a) means exactly what it says. It quite explicitly applies to a person who is already a member of Parliament either by being elected or appointed.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s24\ql \li0\ri0\sb240\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \b\f37\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cf1\insrsid1448258 
POWER TO DETERMINE THE QUALIFICATIONS OF A PERSON TO BE A MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT (S 135(A))}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The words \'93to be\'94
 vary in their meaning depending on the context in which they are used. For instance a man who says \'93I want }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 to be}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  a judge\'94 means that he wants }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 to become}{
\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  a judge. In s 135(a), because of the context in which they are used, there can be no question that they mean \'93}{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 to become}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'94
 and therefore give the National Court the power to entertain challenges to a person\rquote s qualifications to become a member of the National Parliament.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 It is without a scintilla of doubt that the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Organic Law on National Elections}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
 makes no provision for this situation. The two relevant provisions of this law provide as follows:}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s31\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'933.\~\~\~\~\~ }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Re
ference of certain questions to National Court}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 .}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s38\ql \li1440\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
Any question as to whether a person has been validly elected as a member of the Parliament or whether the seat of a member has become vacant shall be determined by the National Court\'94.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s31\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'93206.\~\~ }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Method of Disputing Returns
}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 .}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s38\ql \li1440\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The validity of }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 an election}{
\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  or }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 return}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  may be disputed by petition addressed to the National Court and not otherwise.\'94 [Emphasis mine.]}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
Section 3 clearly provides for a post-election situation. It applies in a case where a person has been elected to Parliament. It, therefore, has no relevance to this reference.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Section 208(a), (e) of the Organic Law puts beyond doubt that s 206 relates to a post-election situation. It provides:}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s37\ql \li720\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'93A petition shall:}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s32\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (e)\~\~\~\~\~ be filed in the Registry of the Nationa
l Court at Port Moresby within }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 two months after the declaration of the result of the election in accordance with}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  s 176(1)(a).\'94 [My emphasis.]}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
As the Organic Law does not relate to the first limb of the power vested in the National Court by the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
, s 135(a), the machinery for invoking this jurisdiction must be found outside the Organic Law. There are no specific provisions in the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Rules of the National Court}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
 concerning the matter in question. However these rules can be utilised by virtue of the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 185, which is in the following terms:}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s31\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'93185.\~\~ Lack of Procedural Provision}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s38\ql \li1440\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
If in the circumstances of a particular case before a court no provision, or no adequate provision, is made in respect of a matter of practice or procedure, the court shall give ad hoc directions to remedy the lack or inadequacy.\'94}{\insrsid1448258 

\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
In this case the National Court would have the power to use the National Court Rules to entertain the challenge by the plaintiff. Of course this would be subject to the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 locus standi}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  of the plaintiff.
}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Mr Molloy for the plaintiff had a second argument in support of his submission that the National Court had jurisdiction and this was that his client had the right to stand for election, a right guaranteed by the }{
\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 50. This provision gua
rantees the right to a citizen qualified to stand for election, to stand in a genuine election. Such a person undoubtedly has the right to come to court if this right is under threat by a person who is not qualified to stand. As this right in question is 
guaranteed by the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 50, it is enforceable in the National Court under the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 57(1):}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s31\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'9357.\~\~\~ Enforcement of Guaranteed Rights and Freedoms}{
\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s32\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (1)\~\~\~\~\~
 A right or freedom referred to in this Division shall be protected by, and is enforceable in, the Supreme Court or the National Court ....\'94}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 I would answer the question in the affirmative.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\cs141\b\f0\fs22\cf1\insrsid1448258 PRATT BREDMEYER JJ}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 : This is a reference to the Supreme Court by Los J. The background to it is that in 1983 Mr Iambakey Okuk won the Unggai-Bena seat i
n the National Parliament in a by-election. Kevin Masive, an unsuccessful candidate in that by-election, filed an election petition under the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Organic Law on National Elections}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
 (Ch No 1) (s 206), (hereinafter called the Organic Law) claiming that Mr Okuk was not residentially qualified to stand for Parliament under the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
, s 103(2). The election petition was heard by Woods J, and in the course of hearing it he referred to the Supreme Court a number of questions on the correct interpretation of s 10
3(2). The Supreme Court answered the questions referred to it and interpreted s 103(2) in }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 SCR No 3 of 1984; Kevin Masive v Iambakey Okuk}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
 [1984] PNGLR 390. Woods J in an unreported decision delivered on 6 December 1984 went on to determine the election petition, ruled that Mr Okuk was not residentially qualified, and declared the election void.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 As a result of that decision a writ for a second Unggai-Bena by-election has been issued. The returning officer has declared the nominations received by him and Mr Ok
uk and Mr Masive are two of the four candidates declared. Mr Masive applied to the National Court by way of originating summons seeking a declaration that Mr Okuk is not qualified to stand as a candidate and an order directed to the returning officer that
 Mr Okuk\rquote s name not be placed on the ballot paper. Mr Masive cannot, and does not, claim }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 res judicata}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , that the decision of Woods J decides the issue of Mr Okuk\rquote 
s residential qualifications for all time, because, obviously, although Woods J decided that Mr 
Okuk did not reside in the Unggai-Bena electorate for a continuous period of two years immediately preceding his nomination for the 1983 by-election, the facts could be otherwise in the two years preceding his nomination for the 1985 by-election.}{
\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 This case
 was argued before us on 30 April. Because polling was scheduled to commence on 11 May we announced our decision on 7 May declaring that the National Court did have jurisdiction to determine the question of the qualifications of a candidate prior to the e
lection result being announced. We said we would supply our reasons later. On 9 May, one of us, Pratt J, dismissed the originating summons on a number of procedural grounds: see }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
Kevin Masive v Iambakey Okuk and Johhannes Kenderop}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  [1985] PNGLR 105. We now publish our reasons for the affirmative answer given to the question asked of us.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The sole question referred to us is:}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s37\ql \li720\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'93Once nominations have been declared under s 92 of the }{
\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Organic Law on National Elections}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , but before commencement of polling period, does t
he National Court have jurisdiction to entertain an application by a candidate questioning the qualifications of another candidate?\'94}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The key sections of the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{
\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , namely ss 103, 135 and 166, have been quoted by the Chief Justice. To these we would add s 126(7).}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Section 126 is headed \'93Elections\'94. Section 126(7) provides:}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s37\ql \li720\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'93An Organic Law shall make provision for and in respect of:}{
\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s32\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (a)\~\~\~\~\~
 the appointment, constitution and procedures of the Electoral Commission, and for safeguarding its independence; and}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (b)\~\~\~\~\~ the electoral system; and}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (c)\~\~\~\~\~ safeguarding the integrity of elections; and}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (d)\~\~\~\~\~ appeals to the National Court in electoral matters.\'94}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
In this appeal Mr Molloy, counsel for Mr Masive, who was the plaintiff in the court below, contends t
hat the National Court has jurisdiction to decide whether a person is qualified to stand as a candidate for Parliament before polling commences. He relies on the first part of the alternatives mentioned in s 135(a):}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s37\ql \li720\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'93The National Court has jurisdiction to determine any question as to:}{
\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s32\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (a)\~\~\~\~\~
 the qualifications of any person to be ... a member of Parliament.\'94}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 He says that the words \'93to be\'94
 are future tense, they indicate a future situation and hence apply to a person who wants to be a member of Parliament. They contrast with the second phrase in the subsection, \'93or to remain a member of Parliament\'94
, which applies to one who is already a member. We agree that it is certainly not unusual in the English language to use the infinitive \'93to be\'94 in the sense of \'93to become\'94
, and it seems to us to do injustice to the language of s 135 to interpret it in any sense other than \'93to become\'94.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The identical words used in s 135(a) are also used in s 103(3) quoted by Kidu CJ. There are four kinds of disqualification mentioned in that section which in brief are:}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s31\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (a)\~\~\~\~\~ not entitled to vote;}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (b)\~\~\~\~\~ unsoundness of mind;}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (c)\~\~\~\~\~ under sentence of death or imprisonment for more than nine months; and}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (d)\~\~\~\~\~ \'93he is otherwise disqualified under this }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'94.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Under (d) would come two matters:}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s31\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (1)\~\~\~\~\~
 if he is under twenty-five years of age (Constitution, s 103(1)); and}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (2)\~\~\~\~\~ if he is not residentially qualified in accordance with s 103(2).}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 On the basis of s 135 and s 103 which we read together, the National Court has ju
risdiction to determine the qualifications of a person to be (or to remain) a member of Parliament on these six matters. We stress these six matters because there are other matters which would disqualify a person from being a member of Parliament but whic
h are not stipulated in the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
; for example, if he fails in his nomination paper to declare that he is qualified under the laws of Papua New Guinea to be elected, if he fails to get his nomination to the returning officer before the hour of nomina
tion, or if he fails to accompany it with K100 in money or in a bankers cheque. These three matters are requirements of the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Organic Law on National Elections}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
, s 86, not matters for disqualification listed in the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 .}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The Organic Law makes provision for the matters set out in the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
, s 126(7), and it regulates the right to vote and stand for public office conferred by s 50(1). We consider, in the words of s 50(2), that the Organic Law is a law which is reasonably justifiable for the purpos
e in a democratic society that has a proper regard for the rights and dignity of mankind.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The relevant parts of the Organic Law for the purposes of this discussion are ss 3, 206, 228 and 231.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Section 3 reads:}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s37\ql \li720\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'93}{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
Reference of certain questions to National Court}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Any question as to whether a person has been validly elected as a member of the Parliament or whether the seat of a member has become vacant, shall be determined by the National Court.\'94}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 We note that the section is not as wide as the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 135.
 It gives the National Court power to determine whether a person has been validly elected as a member of Parliament and whether the seat of a member has become vacant. The section presupposes that a person has been elected or has been made a member. (Some
 members may be nominated.) The section thus gives the court power to hear a challenge only }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 after}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  the election; that is after the election result is known.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Section 206 provides:}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s31\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'93206.\~\~ }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Method of disputing returns
}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 .}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s38\ql \li1440\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The validity of an election or return may 
be disputed by petition addressed to the National Court and not otherwise.\'94}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The section refers to \'93an election or return\'94
 suggesting a contrast between the two things. Mr Justice Srivastava in his }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Law of Indian Elections and Election Petitions}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , at p 489 suggests the following:}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s37\ql \li720\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'93The word \lquote election\rquote 
 is commonly used in two senses. In the narrower sense it is used to mean the final selection of a candidate ... . In the wider sense, the term is used to connote the entire process of election culminating in a can
didate being declared elected, in other words, it includes the whole procedure of election .... Nomination is a part of election in the wide sense of the term and questioning of the order of the Returning Officer at the nomination stage would amount to th
e questioning of \lquote election\rquote .\'94}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 A similar view was expressed by Powell J in }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
McDonald v Keats}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  [1981] 2 NSWLR 268 at 274, where his Honour says:}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s37\ql \li720\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'93... upon its proper construction, the word \lquote election\rquote 
 is not to be restricted to the declaration of the poll, but is apt to extend to each and every step in the election process from the issue of the writs to the various returning offices up to and including the declaration of the poll ... .\'94}{
\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Yet while we accept counsel\rquote 
s suggestion that an election is made up of a num
ber of parts, a challenge to any of which following completion of an election must amount to a challenge to the election itself, we do not agree that the same is true where the election process has not run its full course. If someone challenges the nomina
tion during the course of an election, and more particularly before polling commences, such challenge to the nomination is nothing more than that. It cannot be a challenge to \'93}{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 the election}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'94
 for the election has not yet been run. It should also be noted that the phrase occurring in s 206, \'93the validity of an election\'94, is found in the first instance in the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
, s 135(b) itself. If the challenge to the qualifications of a person to be a member of Parliament is also the same thing as a challenge to the
 validity of the election, what is the point in placing two separate matters within s 135 at all. The answer can only be that s 135(a) envisages the possibility of a challenge to qualifications before the election has run its course, that is in respect of
 a future event taking place, namely, the realisation of the nominee\rquote 
s hope to be a member, that is to become a member of Parliament in the immediate future. Action under the first part of s 135(a) is more likely to be expected and to be taken before any de
claration of a poll whereas action concerning whether or not a person can remain a member clearly must take place after election to the House has been declared; and it may or may not be involved with election procedures. Qualifications to remain a member 
may well come under review if for example the occupant has been convicted of a serious criminal offence or has been declared insane.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The word \'93return\'94 in s 206 means the return of the writ by the returning officer declaring the result of the election in accordance with s 176. The use of the phrases \'93return\'94 and \'93an election\'94
 in contradistinction to one another suggests that an election petition can be brought at any time during the course of an election; for example, before, during or after polling. But that
 suggestion is negatived by s 208(1)(e) which provides that the petition must be filed within two months after the declaration of the result of the election; and s 210 which provides that there can be no proceedings on a petition unless the requirements o
f s 208 and s 209 are strictly complied with. We conclude from these sections that s 206 is to be read narrowly, that the word \'93election\'94 in it means the same as \'93return\'94
, and that an election petition can only be filed after the result of an election has b
een declared. The section means that the validity of an election result may be disputed by a petition and not otherwise. Section 206 as interpreted, when read with the first part of s 3, means that the National Court has jurisdiction to determine whether 
a person has been validly elected as a member of Parliament and the only means of determining that question is by way of election petition. There is nothing contained in }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Jababa v Okuk}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
 [1983] PNGLR 69 which suggests to the contrary, despite the fact that tha
t matter arose from an application by way of an appeal from the issue of a writ of mandamus by the National Court against the electoral officer. What Kidu CJ and Andrew J say at 71 is that an electoral petition is appropriate to dispute the validity of an
 election return (that is, of a completed election) but is not appropriate to question the validity of an enrolment or nomination for a forthcoming election.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The second part of s 3 is as follows: \'93Any question ... whether the seat of a member has become vacant shall be determined by the National Court.\'94
 That part refers to Div 2 of Pt XVIII of the Organic Law. In that Division s 228 and s 231 are of special importance.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Section 228 provides:}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s31\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'93228.\~\~ }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
Reference of question of qualification or vacancy}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s38\ql \li1440\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 A question
 respecting the qualifications of a member or respecting a vacancy in the Parliament may be referred by resolution to the National Court by the Parliament and the Court shall thereupon have jurisdiction to hear and determine the question.\'94}{
\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Section 231 provides:}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s31\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'93231.\~\~ }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Powers of court}{
\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 .}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s38\ql \li1440\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
On the hearing of a reference under this Division, the National Court shall sit as an open court and has the powers conferred by Section 212 so far as they are applicable, and in addition has power:}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s33\ql \fi-720\li2880\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin2880\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (a)\~\~\~\~\~ to declare that a
 person was not qualified to be a member; and}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (b)\~\~\~\~\~ to declare that a person was not capable of being chosen or of sitting as a member; and}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 (c)\~\~\~\~\~ to declare that there is a vacancy in the Parliament.\'94}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 We consider that the jurisdiction conferred by the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
, s 135, is wider than that conferred by s 206 and s 228 of the Organic Law although there is some overlap. The first part of s 135(a) gives the National Court jurisdiction to determine any question as to the qualifications of a person \'93to be\'94
 a member of Parliament and that includes a candidate\rquote 
s qualifications. The Organic Law does provide in s 206 (the electoral petition) a method of disputing the qualifications of a candidate after he has been declared elected but does not provide any proc
edure whereby those qualifications can be established prior to the election result. We consider that a person can apply to the court to dispute a candidate\rquote 
s qualifications prior to the election result. The court has jurisdiction to hear the question by s 135.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
Cases from other jurisdictions are of limited assistance to the Court because of different constitutional and statutory provisions. We agree with the submissions by both counsel that in most common law jurisdictions Parliament has reserved to itself t
he full and exclusive right and power to determine its own membership but has delegated part of this power to a court of disputed returns. Consequently, it is unknown in those jurisdictions to challenge the qualifications of a candidate at any stage befor
e the declaration of the poll. The framers of our }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
, however, decided at the very outset that such power would not be placed by the people in the exclusive hands of Parliament but was an area of concern to the judicial arm of Government (}{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
, s 135) also to be shared in certain circumstances with Parliament as recognised in the Organic Law (for example s 228).}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 It is not necessary in answering the question referred to us to consider in any detail the procedure or methods by which an applic
ant can apply to the court to ask it to exercise that jurisdiction prior to the declaration of the election result. We agree with the learned Chief Justice and our brother Amet that the applicant could apply to the court under the }{
\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 57, for enforcement of his right under s 50 to stand for election without the handicap of opposition from an unqualified opponent. One of us, Pratt J in }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
Masive v Okuk and Kenderop}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  [1985] PNGLR 105, has said that the method chosen in this case of applying for a decl
aration that Mr Okuk is not qualified is inappropriate, and that applying by way of a writ of summons or by an application for judicial review is more appropriate. As we have stated it is not necessary for us to determine these questions.}{
\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 We would answer, yes, to the question referred to us.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\cs141\b\f0\fs22\cf1\insrsid1448258 AMET J}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 : The first observation I wish to make is that in interpreting and construing these various provisions of the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
 and the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Organic Law on National Elections}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , an overriding consideration which ought to be borne in mind is the unique autochthonous nature of this }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{
\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 . Any references to and study of case law from other jurisdictions of notions and principles, which may have been borrowed or adopted, may lose their persuasive value in the context of thi
s background in particular circumstances. The devolution of rights, powers and functions under our }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  devolves from the people through the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{
\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  and is not delegated from the legislature, the National Parliament.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 It is trite to remember that pursuant to the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 9 and s 10, the Organic Laws are subordinate to the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{
\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  in the hierarchy of laws and shall be read and construed subject to the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 .}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The question referred for the opinion of this Court is:}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s37\ql \li720\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'93Once nominati
ons have been declared under s 92 of the Organic Law on National Elections, but before commencement of the polling period, does the National Court have jurisdiction to entertain an application by a candidate questioning the qualifications of another candi
date?\'94}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
The plaintiff submits that the National Court does have such a jurisdiction. The defendants submit that though the National Court does have jurisdiction, that jurisdiction can only be invoked by the process of a \'93petition\'94
 addressed to the National Court after the conclusion of the \'93election\'94 process \'93and not otherwise\'94: see the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Organic Law on National Elections}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 206.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The defendants concede that such jurisdiction is conferred by the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 135. But they submit that the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{
\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  provides
 for the exercise and regulation of this jurisdiction in s 126(7) which provides that an Organic Law shall make provision for, inter alia, the electoral system, safeguarding the integrity of elections and appeals to the National Court in electoral matters
. They submit that the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Organic Law on National Elections}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  thus implements the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 126(7) and s 135.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The defendants\rquote  bold submission is that the Organic Law and in particular Pt XVIII prescribes an exclusive mechanism for challenging the validity 
of an election. Further it was submitted for the defendants that s 135 is only an enabling provision, it simply confers jurisdiction and nothing more, and the process and procedures enabling this jurisdiction to be exercised are provided in the Organic La
w pursuant to s 126(7). It was submitted further that generally the term \'93election\'94
 used in s 206 of the Organic Law should be construed to extend to each and every step in the election process from the issue of the writ up to and including the declaration of the result of the election.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 I accept the submission that generally the term \'93election\'94, as used in contradistinction to the term \'93return\'94
, means the whole process from the issue of the writ to and including the declaration of the result of the election: see }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 McDonald v Keats}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  [1981] 2 NSWLR 268. The term \'93return\'94
 is the technical act of the returning officer, publicly declaring the result of the election and the name of the candidate elected and endorsing on the writ the name of the candidate elected, and 
returning the same through the Electoral Commission, as provided in s 176 of the Organic Law.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The defendants submitted that, upon this construction of the term election\'94 the legislature has intended that the Organic Law would be an exclusive code for the purposes of all issues as to the validity of an \'93election\'94
; that the validity of an \'93election\'94 or \'93return\'94 may only be disputed by a petition addressed to the National Court \'93and not otherwise\'94. And by virtue of s 208(e), \'93Requisites of Petition\'94, such a pe
tition can only be filed within two months after the declaration of the result of the election.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 It was submitted that this construction of s 206 of the Organic Law is not inconsistent with the jurisdiction conferred upon the National Court under s 135. The
re are no reasons of convenience or justice that are against holding that the election petition procedure prescribed under Pt XVIII of the Organic Law is exclusive. Indeed it was urged that such a process is exclusive in the United Kingdom and Australia. 
Strong public policy considerations of the finance involved and inconvenience were advanced by the defendants in support of the construction submitted by them.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 However, notwithstanding this general rule, I am of the opinion that the issue revolves around the interpretation to be attributed to the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
, s 135, and the scope of that jurisdiction. Section 135(a) confers jurisdiction upon the National Court to determine any question as to the qualifications of a person in two circumstances; (a) \'93to be\'94 or (b) \'93to remain\'94
 a member of the Parliament; and under s 135(b) the jurisdiction to determine any question as to \'93the validity of an election to the Parliament\'94. It is worthy to note that identical terms \'93the validity of an election\'94 are used in s 206 of 
the Organic Law. It emphasises the distinction in jurisdiction.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 I too am of the opinion that the term \'93to be\'94 used in s 135(a) speaks of an event in the future. The section relates to the qualifications of a person who desires to become a member of Parliam
ent; one who intends to be a candidate, or one who is a candidate, but who is }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 not yet}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  an elected member. In contradistinction, the term \'93to remain\'94
 in my opinion speaks of the position where a person is }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 already}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  an elected member, and the issue relates to his qualifications to remain or continue to be a member.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 These two jurisdictions are separated and distinguished from that conferred by s 135(b) on \'93the validity of an election\'94. The two jurisdictions envisaged by s 135(a), as I perceive them are these: fir
st, the jurisdiction to determine a dispute as to the qualifications of a person to become a member of the Parliament can be invoked at any time from nomination to the completion of the casting of votes and the declaration of the results; and secondly, a 
dispute as to the qualifications of a person to remain a member, it being after the declaration of the result, can be invoked by petition pursuant to s 206 or by reference from the National Parliament under s 3 and s 228 of the Organic Law.}{
\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 It is significant to note also in the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 103(3), the terms, \'93qualified to be, or to remain\'94
, being used in the third major category of grounds for disqualification. It becomes overwhelmingly clear, in my opinion, when s 135(a) and (b) are read with s 103(1), 
(2) and (3), and with s 206 of the Organic Law, that the qualifications spoken of by s 103 are grounds which do not have to do with the process and procedures of nominations, campaigning, voting, counting of votes, declaration of the election results and 
the like. Grounds under s 103 are absolute, they do not depend upon the ultimate results of the election, the notion of \'93real justice\'94, \'93substantial merits and good conscience of each case\'94.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 In contrast, other grounds which may lead to a successful challenge to the validity of the \'93election\'94
, such as illegal practices, bribery, undue influence (Organic Law, s 215) are grounds which are subject to questions as to whether or not election results may have been affected. They are not grounds of disqualification;
 they relate to the validity of the election.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 It is abundantly clear to me that the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
 has treated grounds of disqualification as distinct from other grounds upon which the validity of an election may be challenged. They are threshold issues whic
h are permitted to be resolved prior to the completion of the election process. Similarly, the question may arise well after the election which may not have anything to do with the validity of the election process. It may be that a sitting member has beco
me disqualified under the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 103(3)(b) or (c), because he has become of unsound mind or has been convicted of an offence and imprisoned for a term of more than nine months.}{
\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 In my view, these are the circumstances envisaged by s 135(a) as distinct from the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 135(b) and the Organic Law, s 206.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The jurisdiction conferred by s 135(b), I consider, is enabled by s 126(7) and the Organic Law machinery under Pt XVIII for its exercise and regulation. This is consistent with the identical words used in the }{
\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 135(b), and the Organic Law, s 206.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The total jurisdiction under s 135(b) as to the validity of an \'93election\'94 in its extended definition does overlap the jurisdictions under s 135(a). For instance the challenges to qualifica
tions on the basis of age and residency under the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 103, in past National elections have been post-election and by way of petition under the Organic Law, s 206: see }{
\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Re Moresby North East Parliamentary Election Petition (No 2); Goasa Damena v Patterson Lowa}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  [1977] PNGLR 448 and }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 In Re Simbu Provincial Election; Re Okuk v Nilkare}{
\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  [1983] PNGLR 28.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 This is perfectly proper because the validity of the \'93election\'94 is being challenged on these respective bases, and that it is proper that it be done by the process of a petition under s 206. The \'93election\'94
 process is completed upon the declaration of the results and the certification by the returning officer of the name of the candidate elected, under the Organic Law, s 176.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The \'93election\'94, the validity of which is to be disputed by petition, is in my opinion a completed \'93election\'94 process, consistent with s 208(c) \emdash  \'93Requisites of Petition\'94
. There are no provisions in the Organic Law for challenges to parts of the \'93election\'94 process. I consider therefore 
that challenges to various processes forming parts only of the election process such as nominations, qualifications to nominate or to become a member or disqualifications from becoming a member are not challenges to \'93the validity of an \lquote election
\rquote \'94 and are outside the ambit of the Organic Law, s 206. That is the substantial distinction which is the flaw in the defendants\rquote  submission, that because the \'93election\'94
 has commenced by the nomination the only manner in which it can be challenged is by petition in accordance with s 206. My view is that that is the commencement of the process, it is not yet an \'93election\'94 until the result is declared. The defendants
\rquote  submission is non-sequitur.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 This in my view is the distinction envisaged by s 135(a) and (b). It follows
, therefore, that challenges to the qualifications of a person who has been nominated as a candidate for election can be made and be entertained by the National Court at any stage of the election process prior to the completion of voting and declaration o
f the result. Consistently with the practice to date, similar challenges to the qualifications of a candidate who has been declared elected is a challenge to \'93the validity of an election\'94
 and so shall be strictly in accordance with the provisions of the Organic Law.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Having determined that the National Court has jurisdiction under the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 135(a), to determine the qualification of a candidate prior to the \'93election\'94
 being completed and thus distinct from and wider than the jurisdiction conferred by s 135(b) which is implemented by the Organic Law, the next issue is by what process or under what provision of the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{
\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  or other laws such challenges can be made to the National Court.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The plaintiff in the National Court applied by originating sum
mons, seeking a declaration that the first defendant, Iambakey Okuk, also a candidate in the election, is not qualified to be a candidate and also seeking an injunction directed to the second defendant that the first defendant\rquote 
s name not be placed on the ballot papers. He has made a three pronged submission as to the constitutional basis for invoking this jurisdiction at this stage of the electoral process.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 It is first submitted that the plaintiff, as a candidate duly nominated for election as a member of P
arliament and who is duly qualified, has the right, and shall be given a reasonable opportunity, to be elected to elective public office at genuine, periodic, free elections: s 50(1)(d). It is submitted that the issue as to the residential qualifications 
o
f the first defendant is fundamental to the right of the plaintiff to contest and be elected to elective public office at a genuine and free election. As the plaintiff alleges in his application before the National Court, the first defendant is not reside
n
tially qualified to be a member of Parliament for that constituency. If this were ultimately proven to be the case, so submits the plaintiff, then his right to stand for public office in a genuine and free election would have been infringed by the candida
cy of the first defendant who was not properly qualified to so contest the election. The election would not have been genuine and free. It would have been invalid if the first defendant were the successful candidate.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The plaintiff submits therefore that he has an interest in the protection of his right to stand for public office in a genuine and free election and it is enforceable in the National Court upon his application.}{\insrsid1448258 

\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 I do find this submission attractive. The process of the petition under the Organic L
aw, s 206, is consistent with the enforcement of this right, but only after the election. I accept that there is such a right in a candidate contesting an election for public office to have such an election free from illegalities and to be genuine. Severa
l
 real examples were highlighted in the course of argument to illustrate this. For instance, a candidate who is without any shadow of doubt less than twenty-five years of age (s 103(1)), or who is a non-citizen (s 56(1)), or is disqualified under s 103(3)(
a
), (b), (c) or (d), and if such disqualifications are known and or alleged at the earliest possible time in the electoral process, then in my view public policy considerations require that such threshold issues, fundamental to free and genuine elections b
e resolved at the outset before voting commences.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 In the case of }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Re Moresby North East Election Petition; Patterson Lowa v Goasa Damena}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
 [1977] PNGLR 429, in rejecting the submissions that Div 1, Pt XVIII of the Organic Law was invalid in that it was a mere Act of Parliament by construction of the Organic Law, s 1, and not an Organic Law as directed by the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 126(7)(d), Prentice Dep CJ said at 436:}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s37\ql \li720\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 \'93
... Were these provisions to be regarded as invalid, I would nevertheless construe the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
 as requiring the National Court (s 22) and presumably (on review) this Court, to provide the necessary machinery and procedures to ensure that a citizen may stand for Parliament, and not have his right to be elected defeated by a candidate lacking the ne
cessary constitutional qualifications, or by one who had indulged in illegal or grossly unfair practices \emdash  if no such protection had been provided by legislation. If I felt constrained to find or provide such machinery to allow the s 135 (the }{
\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 ) jurisdiction to be exercised, and the National Court to be approached (s 22 of the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
), I would be prepared to determine the provisions of Div 1, Pt XVIII, as being appropriate machinery to so safeguard and enforce the said rights.\'94}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s36\ql \li0\ri0\sa120\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \f38\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 This passage
 has been relied on by the plaintiff to support his contention that he has such a right to contest and be elected in a genuine and free election and for it not to be defeated by the first defendant who, he submits, lacks constitutional qualifications. I d
o accept this submission, but Prentice Dep CJ was there addressing the validity of the petition process under the Organic Law, s 206, after the election. In this instance, the jurisdiction is being invoked in the course of the \'93election\'94
 process. I accept the submission, however, that it reinforces the plaintiff\rquote 
s right under s 50(1)(d) to be elected to elective public office in a genuine and free election. I accept that Div 1, Pt XVIII of the Organic Law is a law permitted by the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , s 50(2) to re
gulate this right }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 after}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  the election.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 There is however, no other machinery or provision, apart from s 3 and s 228 of the Organic Law, enabling the jurisdiction under the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
, s 135(a), to be exercised. I consider therefore that the power of the National Court under the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
, s 57, can be invoked to protect and enforce such a right under s 50. The plaintiff has locus standi. I consider that this power can be exercised within the framework of s 57(3) and (5).}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 I consider that the appropriate relief would be by way of declaration that such a candidate is or is not qualified. I accept the defendant\rquote 
s submission that an application for injunction directed against the returning officer is inappropriate in these particular circumstances, wherein it 
is the constitutional qualifications of the first defendant which are being challenged and not any act or omission of the returning officer. He has committed no error. He had no power to inquire into the constitutional qualifications of a candidate. He me
r
ely has to be satisfied that the formalities of nomination are complied with, and the necessary statutory declaration is sworn as to qualifications. It is not his duty nor within his power to inquire into the correctness, truth or otherwise of declaration
s as to a person\rquote 
s constitutional qualifications to be a candidate. I think therefore that if, as it is accepted in this instance, the returning officer had committed no error, and had done all that was lawfully required of him, then the relief of injunctio
n directed against him is inappropriate.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 I consider that the appropriate relief is one of declaration by the Court that such a candidate is or is not constitutionally qualified. If the candidate were declared disqualified on the basis of lack of residentia
l qualification, then he was disqualified to be a member ab initio, and it followed that he was not qualified to be nominated as a candidate. This fact would have been beyond the competence of the returning officer to determine. It would follow from such 
a declaration that the nomination was invalid at the outset.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The second basis for the plaintiff\rquote s submission that he had the right to invoke the jurisdiction of the National Court under the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
, s 135(a), was by virtue of either s 22 or s 23(2) to 
enforce s 103 prohibition or restriction on qualifications to be a member of Parliament. It was submitted that the first defendant was by his lack of residential qualification infringing s 103(2) and (3) by his nomination as a candidate to be a member. Th
e plaintiff contended that his right under s 50 was being infringed by this act of the first defendant and thus he had locus standi. It was submitted that the National Court had discretion, \'93
if it thinks it proper to do so, to make any order that it thinks proper for preventing or remedying a breach of the prohibition\'94. I consider that this remedy is arguably open.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 The third and final basis on which the plaintiff submitted he had a right to go before the National Court was that pursuant to several provisions
 of the Organic Law (ss 86(a), 187(1) and 191), the first defendant was committing electoral or criminal offences and so the plaintiff was entitled to apply to the Court to restrain the first defendant from committing these offences. I consider these are 
offences under the Organic Law for which there is ample machinery and procedures for their prosecution. I do not consider injunctive relief appropriate at this point.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 I have held that the remedy of declaration is a more appropriate one than injunction in th
e circumstances and the nature of the dispute. Both injunction and declaration are equitable remedies and discretionary in nature. A declaration is a statement by a superior court of the legal position obtaining between the parties. It is a non-coercive r
emedy. Breach is not visited with punishment, but declarations are almost certain to be obeyed, at least by any public authority: see Sykes, Lanham and Tracey, }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 General Principles of Administrative Law}{
\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 , Ch 21 and Ch 22.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 A useful analysis of the nature of this declaratory relief is found in the speech of Lord Diplock in }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Gouriet v Union of Post Office Workers}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258  [1977] 3 All ER 70 at 99, 100.}{
\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 In the end result, my answer to the question referred is that the National Court does have jurisdiction under s 135(a) and this may be invoked by virtue of the }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Constitution}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 
, ss 50, 57, 23(2), by way of application for declaration, under the appropriate rules of National Court Rules.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\cs141\b\f0\fs22\cf1\insrsid1448258 WOODS J}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 : I agree with the reasons of Pratt and Bredmeyer JJ and have nothing further to add.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Question answered, \'93Yes\'94}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Lawyers for the plaintiff: }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Young & Williams}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 .}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Lawyer for the first defendant: }{\i\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Duncan Colquhoun-Kerr}{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 .}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }{\fs20\cf1\insrsid1448258 Lawyer for the second defendant: State Solicitor.}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \s54\ql \li0\ri0\sb544\sa181\widctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp2 \cbpat1 \f1\fs28\cf11\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\fs24\cf0\insrsid1448258 \~}{\insrsid1448258 
\par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\ipgp1 \fs20\cf1\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\cf0\insrsid1448258 
\par }}