Court orders modification to the witness booth in Tundu Lissu’s treason trial but dismisses other objections, allowing the case to proceed.
Lissu’s treason trial resumes amid a contentious legal clash over the prosecution’s secret witness, which he decries as a mockery of justice.
Lissu argues that the state’s use of a fully concealed witness violates the core principles of a fair trial, as it prevents effective cross-examination and judicial assessment of the accuser’s credibility.
The adjournment follows a turbulent period for the East African nation, which has been gripped by widespread protests and an internet shutdown in the wake of the controversial October 29 general election.
Friday’s adjournment ensures that Lissu will remain in remand prison throughout Tanzania’s election on October 29, a fact he explicitly framed as the central objective of the state’s legal strategy.
With its evidence in tatters, the state faces a monumental task to revive its case, with many observers questioning whether the treason charge can legally proceed.
If the court rejects the forensic report on Thursday, the state will be left with no physical evidence and no expert testimony to support the core of its treason case, potentially leading to its collapse.
The fate of the case now rests entirely on the judges’ interpretation of complex procedural and evidentiary laws.
Building on the previous day’s tactics, Lissu continued to highlight contradictions between ASP Bagyemu’s courtroom testimony and his initial sworn statements.
A central pillar of Lissu’s defence was challenging the claim that he “published” the controversial video that led to his treason charges.
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