The petition filed by the former Prime Minister Gordon Darcy Lilo against the Minister for Rural Development Jimson Tanangada for alleged vote buying and bribery during the election campaign has been adjourned to the 1st of July, 2016.
This was confirmed to the Solomon Star by the High Court, stating that the adjournment was based on the medical grounds of the female lawyer Nuatali Tongarutu, who legally represents Lilo in court.
It was reported that Tongarutu is diagnosed with severe illness related to stroke, hence the court decide to adjourn the case so that Lilo’s lawyer could recovered and fit to attend court.
The court therefore adjourned the matter for a 10 day hearing beginning on July 1.
This is for Mr Tanangada to call his 18 witnesses since the petitioner’s case is completed.
Lilo has called five witnesses during his case and he himself was crossed examined by Mr Tanangada’s lawyer last Friday.
Lilo lodged the petition challenging Tanangada who unseated him in the 19 November 2014 national elections.
He alleged Tanangada of treating, bribery and undue influence during the election campaign.
Mr Lilo accused his rival over bribing the voters and paying them to vote for him.
Tanangada has 18 witnesses.
Member of Parliament (MP) for Gizo/Kolobangara Jimson Tanangada is represented by Donald Marahare of DNS & Partners.
By AATAI JOHN & ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
