By Patricia Keamo – EMTV News, Port Moresby
Peter Numu remains the duly elected governor of Eastern Highlands, following a decision by the Waigani National Court, dismissing an election petition against him. The case, filed by petitioner Simon Sia, was dismissed on Friday 22nd of March, due to lack of evidence.
According to Governor Numu, with the petition out of the way, he is now focused on delivering services to the people of Eastern Highlands.
Petitioner Simon Sia had filed an election petition against Peter Numu on the grounds of “undue influence” – his petition based on accusations that Numu had used a video produced during his term as UPNG SRC President in 2013, during his election campaign in 2017.
The petition had proceeded to trial, with hearings heard in both Goroka and Port Moresby. The decision was handed down on Friday in Port Moresby, with the Court dismissing the petition due to lack of evidence.
Following the Court decision, Governor Numu spoke to the media, clarifying that he did not use the purported video during his campaign to influence voters. Governor Numu added that he is now focused on delivering services to the people of Eastern Highlands.
He also extended an invitation to the petitioner and the other candidates who campaigned against him, to work with him for the development of the province for the remainder of this parliamentary term.
