Two Chadema MPs, 37 others still in remand prison after magistrate’s sudden illness

Morogoro. Two Chadema MPs and 37 other supporters will remain in remand prison as their bail applications could not be discussed on Wednesday after the magistrate, who is presiding at their case felt sick suddenly.

With magistrate Ivan Msack’s illness, the bail application could not be discussed and the accused were returned to remand prison until Friday, December 8, when the case will be brought back to court. 

Adjourning the case, magistrate Erick Rwehumbiza told the court that his colleague was sick and he had gone to hospital.

Following the magistrate’s statement, the defence counsel argued that the case be transferred to another magistrate.

Mr Peter Kibatala contended that the adjournment of the case was a mere trick to delay the administration of justice – granting of bail and hearing of the case.

“The bail application will be decided on December 8, 2017 and in case the magistrate doesn’t turn up, we will consider transferring it to someone else,” responded magistrate Rwehumbiza.

Ms Susan Kiwanga (Mlimba MP) and Mr Peter Lijualikali (Kilombero MP) and 37 other people first appeared in court on November 30, 2017.

They are accused of destroying property after setting to fire an office belonging to Sofi Ward in Malinyi District on November 26, 2017.