CHIEF Justice Sir Albert Palmer on Wednesday convicted a man of manslaughter instead of murder, for which he was tried.
This is due to the accused having a state of “unsound mind”.
Sir Albert made this orders yesterday after prosecution and the defence counsels presented their closing submissions.
Ngadabeu Maenari’i was therefore acquitted of the murder charge and convicted of manslaughter.
Sentencing submissions and mitigation on his case will be made in court on 1 September at 1.30pm.
Maenari’i of Kwaio stabbed a man with a knife at Fanauriri village in East Kwaio on 21 April 2012.
The deceased died as a result of the stab wounds.
Prosecution called three witnesses while the accused did not call any witness and chose to remain silent.
The trial started on Monday late afternoon and completed on the following day.
Sarah Karani of Public Solicitor’s Office represented Maenari’i while Florence Joel appeared for the state.
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
