June 14, 2021, has been set as the trial date for senior members of the United Progressive Party in what is called the “Buses Case.”
On May 12, the three accused – Political Leader Harold Lovell and his two former deputies, Dr. Jacqui Quinn and Willmoth Daniel – were arraigned in the High Court. All three entered pleas of “not guilty” to the three charges levelled against each of them.
Reportedly, the prosecution was seeking an adjournment to a date “to be fixed,” but the presiding judge – Justice Williams – enied that application and set the date for next month.
This matter, which began in, was initially dismissed at the Magistrates Court level. However, following an appeal by the prosectuion, the Chief Magistrate reviewed the case and decided that it should be sent to the High Court for trial.
These three were singled out for prosecution, having been among seven former ministers of Government who utilized buses donated by a friendly government for community transportation.
It is widely accepted that the Gaston Browne Administration persecuted Lovell, Quinn and Daniel because they were the only three UPP representatives that remained in active politics after the 2014 elections.