Mr. Hetinu was the Election Manager for the National Capital District (NCD) in 2017 when he committed the offense. He conspired with the Coordinator for the North-East District and a candidate to induce polling officers and voters with money to vote in favor of the candidate.  Upon a complaint by witnesses, the Police arrested Mr. Hetinu who was found to have in his possession monies totalling K184,300 and a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA).

The MoA revealed amongst others and confirmed that the monies were to be expanded to influence people’s votes in ensuring the win of Michael Kandiu a regional candidate. It further revealed that if the candidate won the election, Mr. Hetinu was to be awarded security contracts for the entire NCD for five years subject to renewal.

Justice Berrigan stated that the accused had occupied a public position of authority upon which his actions would reflect the trust and confidence of the people in the Office. Hence his actions were a gross breach of trust.

She further stated that the right to vote is a sacred responsibility enshrined in the Constitution and must be used freely and fairly without any form of influence as it will determine the future of the type of government that will govern the people.

Though there was no clear indication as to what part of the monies were to be distributed by Mr. Hetinu and his accomplices, the heart of the offense was that Mr. Hetinu corruptly received the monies whilst discharging his duties.

Mr. Hetinu was sentenced to seven years with light labor as a grim reminder to potential offenders and to restore confidence and trust in the electoral processes. 

The National Court sentenced Terence Hetinu 51 from the Eastern Highlanes to seven years with light labor for Official Corruption.