GULF GOVERNOR SENTENCED TO JAIL By: Maivo Lafanama Gulf Governor, Havila Kavo has been sentenced to jail for three years, for dishonest application of funds meant for development projects. 18 months of the sentence was however suspended and he will only serve, one year six months. Deputy Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika, made the decision this morning. In a packed Waigani National Court room, Sir Gibbs told Mr Kavo the 130 thousand kina, that was paid to him as allowances by the Gulf Provincial Government in 2009 was wrong. The money was taken out of a trust account belonging to the people of Kikori meant for development projects. Sir Gibss told Kavo that he was a custodian of the trust account, and should be serving the interest of the people. In handing down the ruling, the court considered the amount of money misappropriated, repayment of the monies, the accused position, and that he was a first time offender amongst others. The judge say, the amount of money misappropriated doesnt fall under the worst case scenario warranting 10 years. He will only serve one year six months in hard labour. Mr Kavo is expected to appeal the sentence and must do this within forty days, for him to remain as Governor. Meantime, member for Komo-Magarima, Francis Potape, will know what penalty he gets also for misappropriation, this Friday. Mr Potape paid himself 60 thousand kina with his district presidents, administrator and treasurer getting 30 thousand kina each in 2010. The monies total 330 thousand kina, which the court found him guilty for dishonesty and conspiracy two months ago.
Posted on: Tue, 09 Dec 2014 02:12:55 +0000
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