Eight of 11 charges against Somare dropped

EIGHT of 11 charges against former Angoram MP Arthur Somare for misusing public funds were dismissed yesterday. A leadership tribunal hearing these charges dismissed the eight allegations of misapplication or misuse of funds because they were “duplicative and misconceived”.
The tribunal ruled that Somare, in his capacity as member for Angoram in East Sepik, had pro­perly dispersed his district support grants to the various project groups for the use and benefit of the public.
The other charges were found to be “duplicates” and were dismissed.
Somare appeared yesterday with his lawyers Goiye Gileng and Justin Wohuinangu. Ian Molloy was absent
Magistrate Rosie Johnson, a member of the tribunal, said the prosecution needed to pull up its socks as it had the responsibility to prove its case.
Kavieng-based magistrate Orim Karapo and Justice Salatiel Lenalia were the other members of the tribunal.
The tribunal was adjourned until tomorrow.