Southern Highlands poll case on trial

A JUDGE has ruled that an election petition relating to the Southern Highlands provincial seat won by William Powi in the 2017 general election proceed to trial.
Justice Collin Makail set the trial date for April after earlier dismissing an application by Powi to have the election petition filed by Bernand Peter thrown out completely.
The petition is in regards to the “declaration under special circumstances” of Powi as governor last year.
Justice Makail ruled that the petition had raised serious issues relating to Powi’s victory and should proceed to trial.
Justice Makail also refused the application by Peter to join two different election petitions filed on the same seat.
The other petition was filed by candidate Joseph Kobol.
The Electoral Commission was allowed more time to prepare affidavits in relation to the petitions.
The trial for Peter’s petition will be from Apr 23 to May 4.
The trial for Kobol’s petition will be from Apr 9 to Apr 20.
Bernard is seeking alternative remedies for a “failed election”.
Kobol is seeking an order to continue the counting.
Justice Makail also summoned Southern Highlands election manager David Wakias to produce a copy of the original writ in court.