Mac’s trial pushed back

(CNS): The leader of the opposition now has almost one year to wait before he will face trial on corruption related charges about the misuse of a government credit card after the court heard that the trial is now set for 8 September 2014. An earlier proposed trail date in March next year could not be met as a result of other commitments with the attorneys involved Michael Snape, the crown counsel prosecuting the case against McKeeva Bush, said. Michael Alberga who was representing the UDP leader remained silent during the short mention as the trial date was entered into the court files and four weeks set aside for the hearing.

 

Bush nodded his assent from the Grand Court dock as visiting judge Justice  Panton read out the official trial date and extended the former premier's bail until that day. 

 

The now opposition leader and veteran politician is facing eleven different criminal counts relating to the misuse of a government credit card and abuse of office charges which he has vehemently denied and insisted he will be completely vindicated. Originally he was also charged with a number of counts of theft which have already been dropped by the crown. Among other allegations Bush is accused of using the government issued credit card to withdraw cash from an ATM invarious casinos. 

 

Bush is expected to elect a jury trial in the case but so far his legal team have made no mention of any concerns regarding the presiding judge given their potential conflicts in trying the former leader of the country.