Pacific

First 2006 Solomons election petition heard in High Court

20:45 pm on 20 November 2007

The first election petition to be heard by the High Court of Solomon Islands in relation to the 2006 national election has begun in Honiara.

Michael Maina's election petition against Martin Maga, who is MP for Temotu Pele and Justice Minister, entered its second day in court with defence witnesses taking the stand.

In his petition, Mr Maina, who was recently sacked by the government as the appointed Special Envoy to RAMSI, claims Mr Maga bribed people to vote for him.

The case is attracting extra attention because of the current political situation with both the Opposition and government claiming the majority numbers in parliament.