A judge has rejected a request by Works Minister Rohan Sinanan to adjourn next Monday’s trial in which he is expected to be cross-examined by Highway Reroute Movement (HRM) leader Wayne Kublalsingh.
Sinanan made the request through his attorneys before Justice Ricky Rahim in the San Fernando Supreme Court who had last month set the trial date for Monday, February 17.
Sinanan had petitioned the court for an adjournment because he wanted an opportunity to retain the services of a senior counsel. Kublalsingh who is representing himself strongly opposed the request arguing that it was an abuse of power.
At the last hearing, the judge, who was recently assigned the matter, was surprised that Kublalsingh’s application for leave had not been dealt with having been filed almost a year ago. He granted him leave and set the matter for trial.
Kublalsingh filed the claim last February after he alleged that Sinanan reneged on a promise made during a meeting with HRM members to halt work on the contentious Debe to Mon Desir segment of the highway, and consult with the HRM before resuming any work in that section.
The matter was adjourned to February 17 when Kublalsingh will be allowed to cross-examine the minister and another defence witness Sharon Imbert. The judge has, however, restricted his cross-examination of the minister to 30 minutes and 20 minutes for the other witness.
Sinanan’s attorney will also have an opportunity to cross-examine Kublalsingh and his witnesses. The parties will make their submissions to the court the following day.
The minister is begin represented by attorney Kelisha Bello.
