19 Jan 2005

Trial of Papua New Guinea Provincial Governor postponed for third time

11:34 am on 19 January 2005

The committal hearing in Papau New Guinea of the rape charge against Madang Governor James Yali has been postponed for the third time.

The National newspaper reports counsel Arnold Amet Jnr was on compassionate leave and a stand-in lawyer sought the adjournment.

The defence, which was granted an adjournment on two previous occasions, is preparing to file a no-case submission.

Mr Yali was arrested and charged by Madang police on Dec 14 with abduction, unlawful detention with intent to defile, sexual abduction and rape of his 17-year-old sister-in-law.