By Nakasia Logan, NCN News – December 30, 2024
The long-running election fraud case tied to the 2020 General and Regional Elections will now proceed entirely from the beginning after Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty ruled for the case to be heard de novo, effectively resetting the legal process.
The case involves allegations of electoral misconduct during the tabulation and declaration of votes, which sparked a political crisis in the country.
The prosecution, led by State Counsel Darshan Ramdhani, has expressed its readiness to move forward with the case and has requested that it be handled summarily.
In contrast, the defense, represented by Attorney at Law Nigel Hughes, has opposed this approach, arguing that the case should proceed as an indictable matter.
Hughes has formally sought permission to file a summary supporting this position, with a submission deadline set for January 6, 2025.
A ruling on whether the case will proceed summarily or as indictable will be delivered by Acting Chief Magistrate McGusty on January 13, 2025.
Defendants in the case include former Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield, his deputy Roxanne Myers, Region Four Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo, former APNU/AFC Minister Volda Lawrence, and others involved in the electoral process, including GECOM clerks and IT officials.