The retrial of Komo-Magarima MP, Francis Potape, started today.
Potape was charged with one count of conspiracy, and two counts of misappropriation, however the state prosecutor removed his charge of conspiracy this morning.
The state alleges that between November 1-13, 2010, Potape in his role of Chairman of the Komo-Magarima Joint District Planning and Budget Priority Committee dishonestly consented with members of the committee, and dishonestly applied a sum of K330,000 towards a sitting allowance.
It is alleged that these were public funds that instead belonged to the development of the Komo-Magarima people.
From the total, K60,000 is alleged to have been paid to Potape and his fellow committee members, including the District Treasurer.
Potape pleaded not guilty to these charges.
The trial will continue for an indefinite period until all witnesses have testifed.
