Marape petition dismissed

Failure by a petitioner to prove the offense of bribery that was said to have been committed by Tari-Pori MP, James Marape has seen one of the two petitions against him dismissed today.

The National Court this afternoon dismissed the petition Johnny Pokaya filed, disputing Marape's win in the 2017 General election.

A jubilant court victory for James Marape and his supporters today, the election petition, alleging he committed bribery was dismissed following a trial conducted by Justice David Cannings. 

Johnny Pokaya alleged that Marape gave out K10, 000 on 25 June 2017, at Paipali village, Tari-Urban Local Level Government, to Tawi Pulumaya, the President of the Tebi LLG in the presence of four others, to distribute k100 each to members of their families.

The Court of Disputed Returns today ruled that the petitioner failed to prove the offense. It was found to be unconvincing and not credible. 

The evidence of the witness who testified to receiving K100 note was largely hearsay.

Marape in receiving the ruling appealed to his supporters in Port Moresby and Hela to be agents of peace and not incite violence as a result of the petition being dismissed.

Marape will return to court later this month, in relation to cost from a previous election petition cost

Another petition against him, filed by lawyer Justin Haiara is still before the court.

Author: 
Sally Pokiton
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