Moresby North-East MP

Former MP Labi Amaiu claimed that Kaupa allegedly used the funds to pay for cleaning services and family vehicles.

Amaiu added that the Amaiu Haus was his own initiative and they have been seeking funds to build it.

However, he claimed that Kaupa had allegedly used up the funds for his own benefits.

Loop PNG is aware, from reliable sources, of payments being made to various entities, mostly for cleaning services.

As per a bank statement, only K5 million is left in the Moresby North-East District Operating Account from the initial K10.9 million.

Kaupa went to the Supreme Court seeking leave to review the decision of November 16, which dismissed his motion challenging the competency of the petition that was filed by former MP, Labi Amaiu.

He asked the National Court then to dismiss the entire proceeding on the basis the petition was filed one day late.

The National Court refused the motion, allowing the petition to stay alive and ordered for its return at a later date for the trial date to be set.

Kaupa filed an application on Oct 18 seeking dismissal of the entire proceeding, claiming the petition was filed one day late.

Today the National Court refused that application, allowing the petition to stay alive because it was filed on time.

To file an election petition, it must be done within 40 days after the declaration date.

Kaupa was declared on July 28. Amaiu filed the petition on 6 September.

Justice Collin Makail, in giving his ruling on the motion, said the petition was filed within the 40-day period after the declaration date.