14 Apr 2016

Lobatse High Court acting Judge, Justice Jennifer Dude has adjourned Outsa Mokone’s seditious case for status hearing on June 8.

She told the court that she has not received the heads of argument filed by the applicants, adding that she has to be given time to familiarise herself with the arguments before she could proceed with the matter.

However, the respondents on Monday filed their heads of arguments with the court.

The Sunday Standard editor was on September 2014 charged with sedition under Section 50 and 51 of the Penal Code.

The two sections deal with the publication of articles likely to cause disaffection or hostility towards the head of state or the government.

Mokone was charged in connection with an article in which his publication claimed the President was involved in a road traffic accident.

He wants the court to overturn sedition charges laid against him.

Despite the date set by Justice Dube, deputy government attorney, Mr Nchunga Nchunga had earlier requested that the matter be given an earlier date, arguing that the matter has been dragging for a long time.

He added that the matter has been heard before several judges.

Despite the argument, Justice Dube said since the matter was new before her, she needed time to go through the heads of arguments that were presented before she continues with the case.

Dick Bayford represented the applicant while Mr Nchunga represented the respondents being the attorney general as the first respondent, chief magistrate as the second respondent while the Commissioner of Police is the third respondent. ENDS