BY ROMINAH FAKA
Magistrate Court has set a new trial date for the matter of former leader of the Isatabu Freedom Movement (IFM) to September 1, 2025.
John Damusi, 53, is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit arson contrary to section 383 and 319 of the Penal Code.
He pleaded not guilty to the charge.
He challenged the record of interview on the grounds of unfairness alleging that he was not given an opportunity to seek a lawyer or talk with a lawyer before or during the interview.
Another issue he raised is that the record of interview was carried out early in the morning at a time he should be sleeping and the lawyers alike.
The voir dire trial was conducted and prosecution called two witnesses.
After prosecution completed work with their witnesses, defendant Damusi through his lawyer chose to remain silent and his lawyer submitted its closing submissions.
The court ruled the voir dire trial in favour of the defendant by dismissing the Record of Interview (ROI), so the piece of evidence (ROI) will no longer used in the main trial.
Prosecution alleged that Damusi planned to burn down the Mamara Housing Estate Development Building and conspiracy attack other state-owned properties between March 17 – May 6, 2023.
It is also alleged that he conducted meetings with former militants to discuss their protests with the national government for prolonging time to address their rehabilitation claims.
The group allegedly discussed several actions to destroy and damage infrastructures owned by the state with fire.
Unfortunately, their plans did not happen as the police interfered and arrested them.
Delilah Kukura Fagani from the PSO represents Damusi and Mary-Anne Zurenuoc from the Office of Public Prosecution is representing the state.
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