5 Dec 2007

Solomon Islands court dismisses bribery charges against opposition leader

12:05 pm on 5 December 2007

The Solomon Islands Central magistrates court has dismissed bribery charges against Opposition Leader Fred Fono.

Mr Fono, businessman Mathew Wale and political supporter Wilson Maemae had been accused of giving money to a cabinet Minister to resign from the government in June.

Mr Fono's Lawyer, Gabriel Suri, says the magistrates ruling was well considered as it is clear the police and prosecution abused court processes in how they handled the case.

Mr Fono says the charges were politically motivated and has pointed the finger at the office of Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare.