THE Magistrate Court on Thursday stood down proceedings in a case in which five soldiers are charged with the attempted murder of former Lesotho Times Editor, Lloyd Mutungamiri, pending finalisation of an application moved by the accused.
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Oct. 9, 2020
STAFF REPORTER
2 min read
Proceedings in Editor’s attempted murder case halted
Former Editor of Lesotho Times Lloyd Mutungamiri
The accused's lawyer Advocate Kabelo Letuka told the court that his clients will file the application on or before October 23, in the High Court.
The accused include Rapele Mphaki, Khutlang Mochesane, Mahanyane Phusumane, Nyatso Tšoeunyane and Maribe Nathane.
They are charged with the attempted murder of Mutungamiri at his Lower Thamae home on July 9, 2016.
The applicants seek a stay of the trial pending the determination of the application.
Among others, they also asked the court to refer to the High Court questions such as whether or not the consultation of Phusumane now turned state witness contravened their rights.
They further want to know whether or not the trial can be permanently stayed considering the conduct of the crown.
Senior Resident Magistrate Peter Murenzi showed that the intervention through the application is crucial in terms of a fair trial.
He said there have been delays in the case due to unforeseeable circumstances like the COVID-19 outbreak and now the current application.
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He however, said the current delay is necessary, but still a delay anyway.
Magistrate Murenzi was hopeful that the application will be dealt with before the High Court goes for vacation in December.
He therefore asked Adv Letuka to help fast-track the application so that the main trial can proceed.
The accused are expected back in court on October 22 pending feedback on the application.
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