BY ROMINAH FAKA
The case against a man accused of being involved in the 2021 November riots returns to court on November 15.
This is for the accused’s lawyer to file closing submissions.
Sade Kwate’e had pleaded not guilty to one count of sedition, two counts of unlawful assembly and one count of arson. A trial ensued.
On Monday this week defence informed court that it needed time to finalise and file its closing submission.
Court adjourned the matter for Nov 15.
Trial into the case had been conducted, and after prosecution completed its case, defence opted for a no case to answer.
However, court said that there was indeed a case to answer.
In turn, defence informed court that Kwate’e had chosen to remain silent and will not call any witness.
Allegations said on November 24, 2021, Kwate’e lead a group of people to protest at the Parliament House for the Prime Minister to step down.
The following day he allegedly assembled a group of people and procured them to set fire to the Naha Police Station.
This happened during the three days of violence in Honiara which left Chinatown in ruins and business houses and shops in Honiara looted and set on fire. Naha Police Station was looted and also set on fire, but fortunately was put out by the Naha Community.
Fransica Luza acts for the Crown and Bobby Harunari acts for the Kwate’e
