By Vasinatta Yama – EM TV News, Port Moresby
Earlier today the Waigani National Court agreed for a Judicial Review into the UPNG Council’s actions in giving 48 hours for students to vacate the campuses on 27 May.
The Court’s determination came after the UPNG SRC filed a submission to allow for a review into two decisions made by the University Council.
The first University Council decision was made on 17 May in allowing police to enter the campus premises.
The second decision was made on 24 May, giving students 48 hours to vacate the Waigani and Taurama campuses following the suspension of the first semester, to restructure the academic year.
The Court refused to review the first decision of the University Council in allowing the police on campuses, as it is a matter before the Human Rights Court.
It only allowed for a Judicial review into the 48 hours notice given by the Council, considering the welfare of the students cannot be ignored by the Court.
The Public Prosecutor questioned whether the SRC has a ‘legal standing’ to represent the students in this proceeding.
The Court was satisfied however with the UPNG SRC having sufficient grounds of aggrievement over the decisions made by the University Council.
Justice Collin Makail gave 21 days for the UPNG SRC lawyer to file a notice of motion and serve the defendants before appearing on June 22 for directions hearing.
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