Chacha s/o Matiku v. R., Crim. App. 891-D-67, 15/3/68, Georges C. J.

Chacha s/o Matiku v. R., Crim. App. 891-D-67, 15/3/68, Georges C. J.

Accused was convicted for a crime involving theft (the exact charge was not specified) Two extra-judicial statements made by the accused were apparently introduced as part of the prosecution case. Accused chose to make an unsworn statement. The record on this point reads, “Towards the end of July 1966. (Both statements of accused adopted and is informed to add on what he has already stated).” The Court stated, obiter; If accused adopted his earlier statements, he should be recorded as having said so as part of his unsworn statement at the trial. “It may seem a tedious waste of time to record again faithfully matter already noted elsewhere, but the exercise must be carried out unless the accused person says otherwise . He is then in a position to explain inconsistencies, and in any event differences between his account in court and his previous account may be of great significance.