PNGDF board of inquiry summons PM Michael Somare to testify

Papua New Guinea's prime minister, Sir Michael Somare, is to be summoned to testify before an inquiry into the escape of wanted Australian lawyer, Julian Moti.

A PNG defence board of inquiry reconvenes later today to hear claims by the suspended PNG national security chief, Joseph Assaigo, that Sir Michael gave the order to fly Mr Moti from PNG to Solomon Islands last October.

Joseph Assaigo was suspended for his alleged role in helping Mr Moti escape.

Mr Assaigo says Sir Michael directed his chief of staff, Leonard Louma, who advised him to tell the PNG defence force officers to fly Moti in a defence force aircraft to Honiara.

However, Sir Michael Somare has sternly denied the claims.

Source: Radio Australia