Schram to serve application on state

An application by former UNITECH Vice Chancellor Dr Albert Schram seeking variation of his bail condition, purposely to travel out of the country will be heard at the National Court on Thursday.

His lawyer Greg Manda appeared before the Waigani National Court today where he was told to serve the application on the Public Prosecutors office.

The application was served on police informant this morning at 9:46 when it should have been served on the state.

The court also had its concerns on this case, urging police to treat the facts of the case with urgency.

In any criminal case, Justice Panuel Mogish said the onus is on the state to prove allegations beyond reasonable doubt and not for the accused to fight for innocence.

Dr Schram is seeking leave of the National Court to vary his bail conditions and allow him to travel to Itally, to bring the original copy of his PhD certificate – which is the subject of his criminal case currently before the Committal Court.

A similar application was refused by the Waigani District Court on Monday due to its lack of powers under section 23- sub section (1) of the Bail Act. 

He was arrested on May 9 over allegations he produced falsified and fraudulent documents relating to his PhD qualification, which he obtained on 24 November 1994 from the European University Institute.

His arrest stems from complaints made in 2012.

Dr Schram remains in the country on a tourist visa after his work visa was revoked on his termination.

He was picked up by police while on his way out the country.

Author: 
Sally Pokiton