Charges of assault against the former head of Vanuatu’s Public Service have been dismissed by the country’s Supreme Court.
Martin Mahe (pictured right) was alleged to have assaulted a senior police officer in a restaurant in April last year.
Mr Mahe also faced one count of acting disorderly in public under the influence of alcohol, and of two counts under the leadership code.
However, Judge Durley Tari said the prosecution didn’t prove beyond reasonable doubt the four charges against Mr Mahe.
Mr Mahe had been appointed Chair of the country’s Public Service Commission by former Prime Minister, Charlot Salwai only a month before his sacking in May last year.
Incoming Prime Minister, Bob Loughman ordered the termination of Mr Mahe’s two-year contract.
The court heard that the Government had offered Mr Mahe eight million vatu ($A97,000) to resign following the police officer’s complaints.
Mr Mahe said he refused the Government offer, which he claimed then led to his sacking.
He has filed a police complaint against Mr Loughman over alleged conspiracy, and has indicated he will claim for unjustified termination and breach of contract.
Mr Mahe’s lawyer, Nigel Morisson (pictured left) has expressed confidence that the Government would lose the case.
Port Vila, 5 May 2021
