Charged protesters seek stay

NAURU – The 19 Nauruans charged in connection with an anti-government protest nearly two years ago are seeking a temporary stay on their trial.

The trial began this week with the defendants, including three former MPs, asking the court to enforce subpoenas on key government officials, including Justice Minister David Adeang.

One of those charged, former MP Mathew Batsiua, said these officials had information and documentation that the defendants believed could assist their case.

He said they were taking these steps because of the extraordinary interest the Nauru government had taken in the trial.

“Given that they have been interfering in the judiciary in the past and they continue to do so, we believe that we won’t be able to get a fair hearing because there is intimidation on the courts. Our argument to have a temporary stay rests on the basis that we believe we won’t be able to get a fair trial, under these circumstances.”