By Zebedee Kumpio
THE Supreme Court has ruled for an expedited proceeding for the opposition’s Vote of No Confidence (VoNC) special reference at the Port Moresby National Courthouse this morning.
Justice Derek Hartshom, presiding as a single judge, ordered that the full hearing will be on August 1st, for the substantive hearing so as any preliminary application.
Justice Hartshorn ordered that all parties must submit relevant documents relating to the substantive matter by or before July 26th.
This includes any applications by intervenors, such as the Speaker and the Attorney General’s lawyers, to dismiss the substantive application or raise objections to its competency.
The Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Douglas Tomuriesa, was represented by his lawyer George Kult of Young & Williams Lawyers.
Kult indicated their intention to file an application to withdraw an amendment to the substantive application.
On August 1st, the court will conduct a full day of hearing to address any preliminary applications and hear arguments regarding the substantive application.
Speaking outside the courthouse, senior Opposition MP Hon. Kerenga Kua welcomed the progress and reaffirmed the Opposition’s support for this crucial case.
Kua expressed satisfaction with the judge’s directions, noting that they align with the opposition’s goal of securing a final judgment before Parliament reconvenes.
“We are pleased and happy with this development as it accommodates all parties. We the opposition and as the applicant in this supreme court application are happy that utility and the integrity of the proceeding have been preserved and addressed by today’s ruling so we are happy with that outcome,” Hon Kua Said.
“All preliminary matters as well as the substantive hearing will be argued on August 1, and it is expected a decision will arise thereafter.”
