Marape gives evidence

Prime Minister, James Marape appeared this morning as a state witness, in the controversial court case of former Deputy Finance Secretary, Jacob Yafai.

Mr Marape was the finance minister in 2012 and is testifying about the alleged illegal payments of K41 million, processed to Paul Paraka Lawyers.

He was accompanied to the court room today by Attorney General, Pila Niningi.

Mr Marape is currently being questioned by the State Prosecutors, on his involvement in the payments.

He informed the Court that despite his instructions to the accused and the Finance Secretary, to stop payments to the law firm, a total of four illegal payments were processed.

Counsel representing the accused is expected to screen Marape's evidence, which was presented in court over the last few hours.

Meanwhile, the Waigani court room one is currently under heavy security presence, as Prime Minister Marape presents his evidence.