The Election Petition regarding the Kundiawa Gembogl Open Electorate concluded yesterday with parties making submissions.
Counsel Emmanuel Isaac made submissions for the Petitioner and former MP William Gogl Onglo (pictured)asking the Court to order a recount.
Isaac also asked the Court to order that the Returning Officer Michael Gand Palma be permanently barred from ever assuming a role of a Returning Officer in the near future.
The lawyer for the First Respondent, Hon. Muguwa Dilu and Ray William for the Electoral Commission asked the Court to dismiss the Petition on the grounds that the relevant laws were not pleaded.
Counsel Isaac responded, saying pleading of laws in the election petition is unnecessary under law.
Deputy Chief Justice Ambeng Kandakasi fixed Jan 22, 2024 to hand down its decision at the Goroka National Court.
