Mukulu Trial Faces Bail Threat

The International Crimes Division of the High Court has warned that ADF leader Jamilu Mukulu and his co-accused could be released on bail if prosecution fails to present witnesses when the trial resumes tomorrow.

Prosecutors Thomas Jatiko and Richard Birivumbuka have been unable to present the 16th witness in the 12-year-old terrorism case against Mukulu and 17 others.

Prosecution told the court that previously summoned witnesses had not turned up because they were occupied with gardening during the rainy season. They asked for another month to prepare their witnesses.

However, a panel of four justices said prosecution had already been granted a three-month adjournment to prepare its case, stressing that court summons take precedence over other activities and must be respected.

The court also suggested that prosecution could present the witnesses virtually through Zoom instead of seeking another lengthy adjournment.

Citing Article 28 of the Constitution, which guarantees a fair and speedy trial, the justices ordered prosecution to proceed with the case tomorrow.

The court warned that failure to do so could result in Mukulu and his co-accused being released on bail or prosecution being directed to close its case.

Mukulu was arrested in Tanzania in 2015 and has been in custody facing charges including terrorism, murder, robbery and attempted murder.