Umuvugizi editor wants trial postponed

KIGALI - The Editor- in-Chief of a vernacular tabloid, Umuvugizi, has requested the Kagarama Court of Lower Instance to adjourn his defamation trial owing to the absence of his two lawyers. John Bosco Gasasira is accused by the head of Genocide Fugitive Tracking Unit, John Bosco Mutangana and Doctor Diane Gashumba of defamation. Gasasira who authored the alleged damaging article, yesterday requested the presiding judge Silas Nsengiyumva to adjourn the trial because two of his lawyers were out of the country and their date of return was not known. The presiding judge had ruled that the trial begins on October 12, but Gasasira and his lawyer, Claude Djandjo Tchaya, hastily raised their hands to protest. “My lord, the date you have fixed is not favouring me because two of my lawyers are away, I request you to grant me a few days after October 12 for them to be here,” Gasasira pleaded. “No, by law we can not change a court ruling, however we would like to offer justice to all, so put your request in writing indicating all reasons for the request and bring it for the court to decide,” the judge retaliated. The prosecution represented by Faustin Munyamahoro interrupted saying that Gasasira and his lawyers were playing delaying tactics. Munyamahoro insisted there were no reason for trial adjournment since one of his lawyers was around.Gasasira also insisted that he preferred his lead counsel, Claudine Gasarabwe who is said to be in Britain, to be around. The trial which was supposed to kick-off on September 18 was halted by Gasasira’s lawyers who cited obstacles in the case. Gasasira faces three charges of defamation, abusing individuals publicly and invading someone’s privacy. Ends

National

Umuvugizi editor wants trial postponed