Justice Sir Bernard Sakora

Court to rule on judge’s case next month

Sir Bernard returned to court on Thursday for mention. His lawyer, Loani Henao, moved an application to dismiss the criminal proceeding on May 9.  The matter returned for mention where Fraud Prosecutor Michael Awagl responded to Henao’s application.

Sergeant Michael Awagl told the court the informant followed procedure before the arrest of Sir Bernard. 

However Henao maintained that the prosecution does not have the legal foundation to commence prosecution against Sir Bernard, who is a judicial office holder.

Police Prosecution asked to provide direction of PP

Sir Bernard’s lawyer, Loani Henao filed an application in that respect which was brought to the court’s attention today when he returned for mention.

Henao said due to the position Sir Bernard holds, section 119(5) of the Criminal Code of PNG will apply as he was ‘foreshadowing’ the application they intend to move.  That application will be moved on a later date.

Judge Sakora voluntarily steps aside as a judge, while denying allegations

Sir Bernard will not hear or sit in any cases at the National and Supreme Court pending the determination of this matter or the allegations of judicial corruption.

Sir Bernard’s lawyer Loani Henao in a media conference made the announcement while sternly denying the allegations that deals with judicial corruption.

Henao says what transpired from the payment of K100,000 to Sir Bernard was a commercial transection between him and Paul Paraka lawyers after his honour put out a public notice for the sale of a vehicle, a Ford Everest Station wagon registration no. BCA-531.