Hela Regional seat

Potape gives evidence in trial

Potape is challenging Philip Undialu’s declaration of 24 July 2017 in Tari.

He petitioned the court to make findings into the final results of the election and determine who scored the highest votes.

He alleges the Returning Officer did not publicly declare the winner with the votes collected before putting Undialu on the writ.

The issue of the petition is what transpired on 23 July 2017 after he was informed by his scrutineer Tape Pulupe and the Assistant Provincial Returning Officer, Anna Pame, in the afternoon to get ready for his declaration.

Potape's bid to restrain return of writs fails

Potape's lawyer filed the urgent application before the Waigani National Court on July 27.

This application was heard and refused this morning by Justice Derek Hartshorn.

The court was of the view that Potape's rights will not be affected if the orders he is asking the court for is not granted.

However he still has the right to file an Election Petition on the alleged error of the electoral process.

Potape went to court claiming the declaration of member elect, Philip Undialu was flawed following the elimination of Dr Hamia Hewali.