5 Dec 2006

Solomon Islands' MP accused of planning Honiara riots released on bail

12:41 pm on 5 December 2006

A Solomon Islands MP, Charles Dausabea, has been released on bail after spending about seven months in police custody.

Mr Dausabea represents the East Honiara constituency and was charged for offences related to the April riots in Honiara.

He was one of four men accused of planning the riots who will stand trial in the High Court.

The other three are fellow MP, Nelson Nee, businessman Alex Bartlett, and former Honiara city mayor, David Dausabea.

The SIBC reports Charles Dausabea as saying he will now start working closely with the people of his constituency after his bail was granted by the High Court.

Mr Dausabea had been refused bail earlier in the year but this time his application was successful.

He told the Solomon Star newspaper that he remains a strong supporter of the Sogavare-led government.