Court sentences Yama and Yagama to jail

Usino-Bundi MP Anthon Yagama and Madang businessman Peter Yama have been sentenced to a total of 15 months in prison for contempt of court.

In two separate originating summonses, resident Judge Justice David Cannings sentenced both men to less than a year in prison each for failing to comply with court orders in an ongoing legal battle.

Yagama has been sentenced to nine months in prison following contempt of court proceedings against him wthat cover: “threats and incitement to violence by supporters of a party to ongoing court proceedings; punishment of person whose supporters were involved in the incident; and responsibility for conduct of supporters”.

Yagama was convicted on two of these counts. First, for failing to take adequate steps to prevent his supporters from intimidating, threatening and inciting physical violence against the petitioner (Yama) and his supporters. And second, failing to prevent his supporters and associates from disturbing the peace of the precincts of the National Court.

Cannings said as a leader he should have ensured before the day of hearing that his supporters did not come to court with painted faces, shouting war cries and armed with weapons.

The incident occurred on Sep 3, 2013, in the precincts of the National Court on Yabob Road, Madang. The court was dealing with an election petition concerning the result of the 2012 general election for the Usino-Bundi Open seat, challenged by Yama.

The court heard that supporters of Yagama confronted Yama and his lawyer as they were driving out, threatening them with weapons and abusive language.

Yama, however, was charged with contempt in relation to the same incident. The court heard Yama had returned that day and threatened Ramu police officers that he would shoot them with high-powered guns because they did not intervene and stop Yagama’s supporters.

Justice Cannings said his actions amounted to interference and harassment of police officers, and aggressive and inflammatory conduct that was likely to interfere in the due administration of justice. Yama was sentenced to six months in prison. Both men will serve their sentences at Beon Jail.

PNG EDGE