The rape case facing Tanzanian Bongo Flava artiste Sefu Shabani Ramadhan, popularly known as Matonya, has once again been delayed after the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) failed to submit important evidence documents required by the court.
During the latest court session, prosecutors admitted that investigations and preparations were not yet complete and that key exhibits linking the singer to the allegations were still unavailable.
The court was also informed that the magistrate who had initially been handling the case was recently promoted to the High Court, creating further delays as new directions on the matter are awaited. Among the documents yet to be supplied are witness statements, medical reports related to the alleged rape incident, and scientific evidence expected to help determine the case. Matonya was charged over claims that he committed the offence in an apartment building located in Nyali.
The musician denied all accusations when he appeared before the court and has continued to maintain his innocence. Earlier, the prosecution opposed his request for cash bail, arguing that as a Tanzanian citizen he could flee the country before the case is concluded. The court instead ordered him to surrender his passport and meet other bond conditions before securing his release.
Matonya has since been freed after complying with all the requirements issued by the court. The case is now expected to return to court on June 17 for further directions as both the defence and prosecution await the remaining evidence documents needed before the hearing can proceed.