Defamatory case of MP adjourned

A MAN charged with producing defamatory publication about Samarai-Murua MP Henry Leonard had his case adjourned for the last time yesterday due to no police file.
Reuben Elijah, 56, of Kaubwaga village in Samarai-Murua, Milne Bay, appeared in the Waigani Committal Court three months ago.
Police Prosecutor Sgt Joseph Sangam told the court that he was having difficulties contacting the arresting officer to get information on the police file and asked the court for an adjournment.
Elijah’s lawyer asked the court for a final adjournment because they had filed their defence submission last month and the case would reach four months.
Magistrate Tracy Ganaii said the court was not aware of the status of the police file so would give time to police to prepare the file.
She said if there was no file next time, the defendant would be discharged.
It was alleged that between May 4 and May 8 in Port Moresby, Elijah intentionally, and without excuse of justification, used the internet (gmail) to publish defamatory materials concerning Leonard.
The post went viral, tarnishing Leonard’s reputation.
Elijah’s bail was extended and will return to court on Oct 27.