The so-called cartel claim brought by the Estate Management Business Development Company against 5 companies and several persons, including Dr. Roodal Moonilal, will go trial.

Justice James Aboud delivered the judgment yesterday.

He dismissed application by the five companies, which sought to have the court strike out the EMBD’s claim on the basis that the facts were improperly pleaded.

But the judge said someone has to explain how it is that these unusual patterns, oddities and inconsistencies can exist other than by collusion involving contractors.

Dr. Moonilal was the Minister of Housing, which was responsible for the EMBD.

The judge said the companies, which have countersued the EMBD for breach of contract, have not yet filed defenses in the substantive claim.

He said they are therefore unable to prove that the EMBD’s action against them was unwarranted.

The companies now have 14 days to appeal.

Last night, Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley said the wheels of justice are turning.

At a political meeting in Sangre Grande Dr. Rowley again slammed the letter sent to the judge requesting he held his hand on delivering the judgment.

Dr. Rowley called on the people to reject the United National Congress.