Apology

OUR editorial yesterday questioned the appointment of United Resources Party leader William Duma as state enterprises and state investments minister after he was sidelined a few months ago over the controversial Manumanu land deal.
There was no suggestion whatsoever that Duma was guilty of any wrongdoing.
The universal principle that a person is presumed innocent until proven guilty of course also applies to the minister who had headed other portfolios in the past and brings with him a wealth of experience to the Cabinet.
Duma had in fact voiced his support for the investigation into the land deal to relocate the defence base.
There was also no suggestion that Duma was reappointed because his party won a number of seats in the general election.
The National regrets any misinterpretation that our editorial may have caused and apologises unreservedly to the minister.