Mr. Hetinu was the Election Manager for the National Capital District (NCD) in 2017 when he committed the offense. He conspired with the Coordinator for the North-East District and a candidate to induce polling officers and voters with money to vote in favor of the candidate.  Upon a complaint by witnesses, the Police arrested Mr. Hetinu who was found to have in his possession monies totalling K184,300 and a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA).

The MoA revealed amongst others and confirmed that the monies were to be expanded to influence people’s votes in ensuring the win of Michael Kandiu a regional candidate. It further revealed that if the candidate won the election, Mr. Hetinu was to be awarded security contracts for the entire NCD for five years subject to renewal.

Justice Berrigan stated that the accused had occupied a public position of authority upon which his actions would reflect the trust and confidence of the people in the Office. Hence his actions were a gross breach of trust.

She further stated that the right to vote is a sacred responsibility enshrined in the Constitution and must be used freely and fairly without any form of influence as it will determine the future of the type of government that will govern the people.

Though there was no clear indication as to what part of the monies were to be distributed by Mr. Hetinu and his accomplices, the heart of the offense was that Mr. Hetinu corruptly received the monies whilst discharging his duties.

Mr. Hetinu was sentenced to seven years with light labor as a grim reminder to potential offenders and to restore confidence and trust in the electoral processes. 

The National Court sentenced Terence Hetinu 51 from the Eastern Highlanes to seven years with light labor for Official Corruption.

Leaders called to support PNG’s FATF commitments and uphold integrity heading into the 2027 Elections

The Independent Commission Against Corruption has urged provincial leaders to strengthen transparency, accountability and compliance as Papua New Guinea seeks to improve its international financial standing and prepares for the 2027 National General Election.

Acting Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Thomas Eluh said PNG’s placement on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Grey List has increased scrutiny of how public funds are managed throughout the country.

“The world is not watching Waigani alone. The world is watching our provinces, our districts, our LLGs and how we manage every kina,” he said.

He reminded leaders that public spending must be traceable, transparent and compliant with procurement and financial management laws.

“The Procurement Act is no longer just a governance tool. It is an international compliance requirement,” he said.

ADC Eluh noted that helping PNG exit the Grey List requires collective action from every level of government.

At the same time, he warned that public officials must remain professional and impartial as the country approaches the 2027 National General Election.

“Politics may change, but public administration must remain professional, impartial and accountable,” ADC Eluh said.

Acting Commissioner Sawong reinforced that while prevention and education remain priorities, the Commission will continue to exercise its investigative and enforcement powers where necessary.

“The strongest partnership between the ICAC and provincial administrations is one where prevention comes first, education supports prevention, and operations are available when enforcement becomes necessary,” AC Sawong said.

He reminded officials that ICAC’s establishment was driven by the need to safeguard public administration and strengthen accountability across government institutions.

Closing the forum, both leaders encouraged provincial administrations to work closely with the ICAC through awareness programs, training, risk assessments and governance reviews.

“Do not wait for the ICAC to find the problem. Work with the ICAC to prevent the problem,”AC Sawong urged.

The forum concluded with a shared message from both ICAC leaders: strengthen systems, follow the law, uphold integrity and work together to build public trust in government institutions.