By PASSY HAACHIZO –
THE Kabwe gender-based violence (GBV) court has acquitted Chief Liteta of the Lenje speaking people in Central Province following his wife’s decision to withdraw the case.
This was in a matter in which the traditional ruler, Charles Mulando, 71, was facing charges together with two of his retainers for allegedly assaulting his wife, Prisca Mulando, 44, over the delayed serving of food.
The traditional leader was being represented by two lawyers, Mutula Museba of Simeza Sangwa and Associates and Inutu Etambuyu Suba of Suba Tafeni and Associates.
When the matter came up for judgment on Monday, Magistrate Kaiser Tembo who presided over the case said he would not give a ruling until further determination.
However, Mr Tembo yesterday acquitted the traditional leader and two others after learning that the family had reconciled.
“Mr Mulando, I am hesitant to acquit you and the court had it difficult to decide because of the upswing in GBV cases and you are a respected leader in the land.
“I, however, set the three of you free but do not repeat that, go and lead by example,” he said.
Chief Liteta told the court that he would lead by example and fight GBV-related cases in the chiefdom as he was already advocating for the fight.
One of the traditional leader’s lawyers, Inutu Suba commended the court for making a ruling in accordance with the wishes of both the complainant and the accused.
“Your honour let me begin by apologising for not coming here on Monday. I was in South Africa attending to other duties, but all the same I sent an apology,” she said.
Outside the court there was jubilation accompanied by handshakes and hugs showing true reconciliation by the chief’s family.
Chief Liteta said he would continue to fight GBV at all costs.