Solomon Islands Bar Association (SIBA) has categorically denies allegations levelled against its president, Mr Donald Marahare, having a hand in the decision alluded to by Mr Alfred Sasako in an article which appeared in this paper last Friday.
In a statement SIBA said the article carried by the paper further signifies continuous desperate but so far failed attempts by Sasako and his mate,Theo Van de Pitteto tarnish the legal profession and judiciary of Solomon Islands.
SIBA understands that the issue of alleged misappropriation of funds against Mr Levo was already before the courts.
“At the moment, the only appropriate office to discuss this matter in open is the office of the DPP. As far as SIBA is concerned, no charges have been laid against Mr Marahare. SIBA will continue to respect Mr Marahare’s dignity as a member of the legal profession until proven guilty in court.
“SIBA will neither deny nor comment further on the rest of the article but will continue to assure the public that SIBA takes complaints against its members seriously and will continue to deal with them impartially on a case by case basis and as and when these are referred to it.”
The statement added SIBA refuted and expressed its disappointment in the strongest terms against outrageous allegations that SIBA protects its members at any cost.
“SIBA is governed by procedures as prescribed by law and will continue to abide by the rules in discharging its duties.
“SIBA concedes the delay in responding to Mr Van de Pitte’s complaints but he cannot now deny the fact that SIBA kept him informed as to the progress of his complaint through regular email exchanges.
“As well, he was informed initially that his complaint was handled by another member of the SIBA Executive in view of the President’s involvement as a key witness in Levo’s trial. Otherwise, SIBA had already discharged its duty and if Mr. Van de Pitte is aggrieved by the decision, he is at liberty to pursue it further before the appropriate avenue.”
