By BRIAN HATYOKA –
LIVINGSTONE High Court Judge Susane Wanjelani has urged the State to ensure it takes witnesses to court next Monday because of limited time for the ongoing criminal sessions.
Ms Justice Wanjelani said this yesterday after the State applied for an adjournment in a murder case for which none of the lined up witnesses turned up.
This related to a case in which four Kalomo residents have been jointly charged with murder.
The four suspects pleaded not guilty to the offense and the matter was adjourned to Monday next week for commencement of trial.
“The application has been granted to adjourn the case. The State should ensure that witnesses are before the court on Monday especially that we have limited time to hear and determine cases in the ongoing criminal sessions,” Ms Justice Wanjelani said.
The suspects are being represented by  Adrian Nkausu while the State is represented by deputy chief State Advocate Nkumbiza Mumba.
Earlier, Ms Mumba told the court that the State was unable to proceed with the trial as none of the witnesses were before the court.
She said she spoke to the arresting officer a Mr Chisanga who told her that he was not aware that the matter was going to be heard yesterday.
“Given another opportunity, the arresting officer will ensure that witnesses are informed for the matter to proceed. I, therefore, apply for an adjournment to Monday next week. As the State, we will ensure the witnesses are brought to court for commencement of trial,” Ms Mumba said.
In response, Mr Nkausu had no objection to the application.