The New Times’ former boss trial sustained

The embezzlement trial of the former boss of The New Times’ (TNT), John Bosco Sanyu, recommenced Tuesday morning but took yet another turn when the judge confirmed withdrawal of her earlier decision to seal the case.

Thursday, September 04, 2008
Embattled former boss of The New Times, Bosco Sanyu. (File Photo).

The embezzlement trial of the former boss of The New Times’ (TNT), John Bosco Sanyu, recommenced Tuesday morning but took yet another turn when the judge confirmed withdrawal of her earlier decision to seal the case.

As earlier reported, the presiding judge had wrapped up the case and set a judgment date because Sanyu had been adamant in answering the courts question, but the judge later backtracked on her decision. The judge ordered a retrial on the basis of an apology letter written by the accused.

Sanyu was represented by two lawyers: Christopher Niyongabo and Janvier Rwagatare. They requested for the audit report evidence carried out in 2006 to be removed from the evidence claiming that it was done by in.

Both the prosecutor and TNT’s lawyer at the start disputed the reopening of the case arguing against the credibility of Sanyu’s letter but the judge after deliberations on the matter pulled rank and ordered its continuation Tuesday.

"There is no clause at all that can be referred to in the reopening of this case. Instead, court should read this case in the open because all prior procedures were followed,” the prosecutor had said before the Judge’s announcement.

After listening to all sides, the judge adjourned the next hearing to September 26.

Ends