Minister of Health, John Still Tari Quetu will reappear in court on April 25 for plea regarding two criminal charges.

The case relates to an incident which occurred in mid-2024, which the Public Prosecutor states Minister Quetu and a companion involved in a drunken altercation that resulted in the assault of a man who was trying to intervene in a domestic dispute.

Both Quetu and the other defendant were released on bail after appearing in court earlier this week for charges of idle and disorderly and intentionally assaulting.

The public prosecutor stated that Quetu and his companion had been intoxicated after a night out at a club when the attack took place.

Their lawyer argued that bail was necessary as both men are primary breadwinners for their families. Although granted bail, the court imposed strict conditions, including no further offenses, no alcohol consumption, and no interference with witnesses.

The case has drawn public attention, particularly due to Quetu’s position as a government minister.

In response to media inquiries, the office of the Prime Minister, Hon. Jotham Napat, stated that the government would allow justice to take its course, emphasizing that no one is above the law.