19 Jan 2007

Solomon's Prime Minister rejects opposition criticism of handling of "Moti affair"

11:15 am on 19 January 2007

The Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has rejected an opposition claim that his government has 'sabotaged' the justice system of Solomon Islands.

Opposition leader Fred Fono says his group is convinced the Sogavare government has 'politically manipulated' the justice system in relation to a magistrates court decision last year clearing Julian Moti of immigration charges against him.

Mr Fono further alleges that the dismissal of Police Commissioner Shane Castles was linked to investigations into the Moti affair.

But Mr Sogavare says justice was already applied by the court decision that freed Mr Moti.

He urged people, including Mr Fono, to respect the court which fairly and independently made its decision.