Bando files stay application against suspension

Suspended Hela Provincial Administrator William Bando and his lawyers have filed a motion seeking interim orders against his suspension.

The motion was filed soon after the Waigani National Court agreed to review his suspension last month.

Leave was granted by Justice Les Gavara-Nanu after Bando’s lawyers established that there were serious issued to be tried and that he had sufficient interest in the case.

Bando’s lawyer returned to court today and the matter was set for hearing on Thursday.

They will be asking the court to stay his suspension from office. Bando is also seeking restraining orders against the Public Service Minister, Hela Provincial Executive Council and its Chairman Francis Potape.

Bando was suspended by the Hela Provincial Executive Council on April 12. Kove Waiko was then appointed as the acting provincial administrator.

He was suspended over allegations he refused to release payment of K7.9m and K500,000 respectively to “Certain individuals” as per directions on March 3.

He was appointed as Hela Provincial Administrator on June21,  2016. His term was for a period of four years.

Bando who is also the Chairman of the Hela Election Steering Committee is challenging his suspension due to the urgency of the upcoming election.

 

Author: 
Sally Pokiton