By Rayon Lakingu – EMTV News, Port Moresby
The Supreme Court has rejected an appeal by a rival candidate for the Yangoru Saussia open seat, against the elected member, Richard Maru.
Peter Waranaka, who came second in the 2017 elections, filed an election petition against Maru on 3 grounds, one being bribery.
The lawyer representing Maru, Paul Mawa, explained that the case had been dismissed, due to the petition having no merit.
An appeal was filed by Waranaka in June, leading to the dismissal of the appeal today (Monday, August 13, 2018).
Mr. Maru’s lawyer, Paul Mawa, today (Monday, August 13, 2018), explained that the original election petition against Maru was dismissed by Justice Ambeng Kandakasi, on 31st May 2018.
Mr. Waranaka, however, filed an application for leave for review on 13th June 2018 – this application was refused by the Supreme Court.
As such, all petitions against Mr. Maru have been dismissed by the Courts.
Richard Maru, satisfied with the Supreme Court’s decision, said he is now relieved and can concentrate on service delivery in his Yangoru Saussia electorate.
