DR REGINALD AIPIA – the man who was awarded a $56 million compensation by the High Court for wrongful imprisonment and loss of business – has asked his lawyer to deny a request for an extension.
The Attorney General who represents Police Commissioner, Mostyn Mangau and Ontong Chiefs in the case – has appealed the ruling. The case was listed in the Court of Appeal list released this week.
It is due to be heard in the Court of Appeal today (29 June).
The Attorney General’s Chamber has reportedly requested a month’s extension, saying its submission is not ready.
But Dr. Aipia has rejected the request on three grounds including one year which was more than enough to file the submission. Also, business losses are mounting and at 30 per cent the accrued mounting losses now stands at $30 million extra.
He has instructed his lawyer to reject the request outright and to file for the dismissal of the appeal, saying the request represents a typical delaying tactics by the government.
One year is more than enough time to file a submission. Why didn’t the AG’s Chamber file its submission within that given time,” he asked.
“No, I deny the request and I have instructed my lawyer to inform the Court of Appeal so. I have also instructed my lawyer to file for the dismissal of the appeal and to uphold the initial ruling by the High Court in my favour,” he said.
The case is listed for 1:30pm today (29 June).
By ALFRED SASAKO
