By Wezzie Gausi:
Former presidential bodyguard Norman Chisale failed to show up in court Tuesday, when the Lilongwe Chief Resident Magistrate Court was expected to deliver a ruling on whether he has a case to answer in a case where he is accused of using a fake academic qualification.
The development surprised Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Masauko Chamkakala, who said they were ready for court proceedings.
Chamkakala said they were surprised to find that the defence was nowhere to be seen.
He said the defence did not provide the court with the reasons for their absence.
“We were at the court waiting for our counterparts but they did not show up. Because this is the first time Chisale was not available in court, the judge just adjourned the matter.
“But if this continues, the court will have to revoke his bail,” Chamkakala said.
Defence lawyer Gilbert Khonyongwa later told The Daily Times that there was a mix-up on the service of the notice of court appearance.
He said they, as such, missed the date.
Khonyongwa said the State also failed to serve the notice to other legal houses, as there are three of such houses that are representing Chisale, hence the mix-up.
“We regret that this happened but we are certain we will avail ourselves of the court in October as directed by the court,” Khonyongwa said.
The court has since adjourned the case to Wednesday, October 2 2024.
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