BY ROMINAH FAKA

Two Malaita provincial leaders charged with unlawful assemblies and protests in 2021 pleaded not guilty in court on Monday this week.

The two defendants Daniel Suidani and Celsus Talifilu were charged separately with three counts of unlawful assembly contrary to section 74 and section 21 of the Penal Code (cap 26).

The matter was moved to November 27 for mention before Deputy Chief Magistrate.

It was alleged that the two defendants had a role in masterminding a number of unlawful assemblies and protests in Auki, Malaita in 2021.

Those unlawful assemblies and protests were allegedly carried out by the Malaita for Democracy (M4D).

The two defendants were arrested on October 3, 2024.

Mary-Anne Zurenuoc acts for crown and Lilly Ramo represents both accused.