Lissu sparks legal debate over witness’s education in treason case

Lissu Sparks Legal Debate Over Witness's Education in Treason Case

A dispute arose during cross-examination at the High Court in Dar es Salaam on Monday, October 13, 2025, as Mr. Lissu questioned a witness about their education.

Witness: "I attended Nganyeni Marangu Primary School and Lyakirimu Primary School, Marangu, Moshi, Kilimanjaro."

Lissu: "Have you ever attended secondary school?"

Witness: "Yes, from 1996 to 1999 at Lyakirimu Secondary School."

Lissu further asked, "What division did you obtain in Form Four?" The prosecution, led by Senior State Attorney Ajuaye Zegeli, objected, citing Section 167 of the Tanzania Evidence Act (TEA), and argued that the question was irrelevant.

Senior State Attorney Nassoro Katuga supported the objection, emphasizing that private details like examination results are protected and unrelated to the witness's ability to give evidence. In contrast, Mr. Lissu argued that understanding the witness's educational background was essential to evaluate their competence and credibility.

Author's summary: Lissu debates witness's education in treason case.

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The Citizen The Citizen — 2025-10-13

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