The presiding judge in the trial of Kalisa Rugano, a famolu cultural expert, ordered the public out of court on the request of the suspect’s lawyer.

"My client is presumed innocent at the moment; this is a very sensitive issue to discuss in the presence of everyone and I am requesting court to hear the case in a closed session since among the audience are all sorts of people, including young people who may regard him as a mentor or guardian,” the lawyer requested.

The judge granted the request and ruled that the proceedings continue in-camera.

The prosecution wants Rugano, who is accused of defilement, to be detained provisionally because they suspect he may jeopardise further investigations. 

Rugano was arrested on December 4 for allegedly raping a 16-year old girl.

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