By MULENGA MUSONDA
A 53-YEAR-OLD man has been arraigned in the Choma Fast Track court for allegedly sexually molesting his 13-year-old step granddaughter.
In this matter, Kizito Muleya is charged with defilement of a child contrary to the laws of Zambia.
Allegations are that Muleya had unlawful carnal knowledge of a girl believed to be below the age of 16.
The alleged incident happened on July 5, 2020 in Choma.
When he appeared for plea before Resident Magistrate Ethel Phiri, Muleya denied the allegations levelled against him prompting the court to record a plea of not guilty. Before the Court could read out the charge to him, Muleya was informed of the statutory provision that states that in the event he felt the girl was above the age of 16 years, he could raise it as part of his defence.
Court: Have you understood the charge read to you?
Muleya: I understand.
Court: How do you plead?
Muleya: I deny.
Court: I record a plea of not guilty.
After recording a plea of not guilty, the matter was adjourned to September 3 for commencement of trial after Public Prosecutor Coillard Sikwalulwa made the application.
