Komo-Magariam MP, Francis Potape's bail application dismissed
The decision effectively means that Francis Potape will continue to remain a convicted member of parliament behind bars in Bomana prison until a decision is delivered on his appeal.
In the event he fails to win his appeal and have his conviction overturned he will then cease to be a member of parliament and a by-election for the Komo-Magarima seat will be called.
Francis Potape was found guilty on 3 charges, on October 16th last year by Deputy Chief Justice Gibbs Salika, and was reportedly sent straight to Bomana prison to serve a two and a half year prison sentence.
Potape was reportedly sentenced initially to a total of 8 years, however time was deducted because he made restitution by repaying money (K60,000 from a total of K330,000) which he was found guilty of misappropriating by dishonestly applying it to his own use.
It is unknown if other members of the Komo-Magarima Joint District Planning & Budgetary Priorities Committee who also received a sitting allowance (K30,000 each from the total of K330,000) are also liable to prosecution for misappropriation. Francis Potape had received K60,000 as his sitting allowance from the total of K330,000.
The 3-member Supreme Court decision this morning marks the convicted MP's second failed attempt to obtain bail after Judge Derek Hartshorn refused him bail, last month, reportedly on four grounds.
Francis Potape was Deputy Leader of PNG Party and in Opposition before joining People's National Congress Party in government.
The decision this morning by the 3-member Supreme Court bench will be published as soon as it becomes available.
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