By Burnett Munthali
Four men accused of assaulting government employees during demonstrations at the Botanic Garden in Lilongwe last year have been ordered to present their defence after the Senior Resident Magistrate’s Court found that they have a case to answer.
The accused are Mulo Makina, Davie Malamula, Dala Kaduya and Eric Phakamisa, who allegedly assaulted government employees during the demonstrations.
Prosecutor Brecious Kondowe said the court found that the State presented sufficient evidence to require the four men to respond to the charges.
The accused will now have an opportunity to defend themselves and call witnesses in support of their cases.
The ruling marks another stage in the proceedings but does not amount to a conviction, as the court is yet to determine the case based on the evidence presented by both sides.
The case has raised concerns about violence during public demonstrations and allegations involving the use of dangerous weapons.
The matter has been adjourned to December 7 for further proceedings.
