Defence Counsel in manslaughter case makes submissions
DEFENCE Counsel Rabindranauth Singh made legal submissions, in the absence of the jury, on Thursday, before the State opened its case against Thakumanie (only name stated), who is indicted for manslaughter. Consequently, a voir dire (trial within a trial) commenced at the Berbice Assizes where the sexagenarian woman is on trial.
Previously, on May 29, the lawyer had indicated to the court, his intention of raising a question of law but the hearing was postponed because Justice James Bovell-Drakes was reported ill.
However, just after the jurors were ushered out of the courtroom to facilitate the arguments by Defence Counsel, the judge told reporters at the  Press Table that he observed mention being made in a national newspaper of a statement which was never addressed within the confines of the Court and he admonished the media personnel to desist from such reporting.
Referring to the newspaper article, Justice Bovell-Drakes said that the interpretation was far from what transpired within the courtroom.
Prior to his admonition, the judge advised the jury not to pay heed to the writings within the press, with respect to the case, but only consider matters that unfold in the witness box.
Meanwhile, at a previous appearance, the 64-year-old accused had pleaded not guilty to the unlawful killing of her husband, Yodha (only name stated), at Bennett Dam, Rosignol, West Bank Berbice, on April 27, 2008.
The trial is continuing.