THE SECRETARY of the United Democratic Party (UDP) Barnabas Henson has reiterated the party’s stand that Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare must challenge his controversial membership in court.
Mr Henson made this statement following a recent statement from the UDP president asking Mr Sogavare to take the matter to court rather than attempting to interpret the law in his favour.
Mr Henson stated that UDP will only reconsider Mr Sogavare’s membership if he respond in person or through representation by a legal counsel of his choice at a hearing before the committee to answer the seven charges laid in relation to his breaching of the party’s constitution.
These charges were;
* Since become a member of the party on 1st of December 2014, Mr Sogavare failed to act in a manner consistent with clause 27 (1) (a) of the UDP constitution.
* Since becoming leader of the coalition, Sogavare has continuously ignored and shown lack of commitment to the party manifesto and constitution contrary to clause 27 (1) (f) of the UDP constitution.
* Since becoming leader of the coalition, Mr Sogavare has continuously brought the party into disrepute contrary to clause 27 (i) (j) of the UDP.
* On or about the 19th of August 2016, with intent, Mr Sogavare falsely accused the party contrary to clause 27 (i) (k) of the UDP constitution.
* On or about the 5th of December 2014, Mr Sogavare assumed parliamentary group leadership 9of UDP contrary to clause 19 (2) of UDP constitution.
* Since assuming leadership of the UDP parliamentary group, Mr Sogavare failed and/or neglected to hold or call meetings of the parliamentary group contrary to clause 18 (2) of the UDP constitution.
* Since assuming leadership of the UDP parliamentary Group, Mr Sogavare failed to consult the parliamentary group and invite the president to attend meetings to decide on party vote on important issues, contrary to clause 20 (2) of the UDP constitution.
The UDP secretary said so far no progress has been made by Mr Sogavare.
“The PM insisted on reconciling without a hint on resolving the coalition’s concerns,” Mr Henson said.
By AATAI JOHN
