Witnesses Awaited in Justice Ministry Trial

Hearing of the case pitting the People of Cameroon and the Ministry of Justice against Tambang Victor Mbang Menji on Friday December 20, 2013 at the Special Criminal Court in Yaounde, was brief as the list of prosecution witnesses was not presented.

The session before a panel of judges led by Mr Justice Bea Abednego and accompanied by Mr Justice Eyango and Mrs Justice Hayatou, began with the verification of the prosecution and defence counsels. Barrister Nji Samuel said the defence had decided to proceed with the case only with the accused and not with witnesses which is one of the options.

Tambang Victor Mbang Menji, 48, former chief court registrar of the Mezam Court of First Instance, is accused of several counts. The embezzling of FCFA 67,579,737 belonging to the State of Cameroon and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under section 184(1)(a) of the Penal Code.

Tambang Victor, at the same time and place, allegedly forged a government stamp; the "Paid" stamp of the government treasurer in Bamenda. The act is punishable under section 203(1) of the Penal Code. Furthermore, Tambang Victor Mbang Menji is accused of altering acts of the judiciary by changing the amount on regularly signed emolument vouchers, thus committing an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 205(1) of the Penal Code.

Tambang Victor also at the same time and place made use of the altered acts by cashing the said altered emolument vouchers, thereby committing an offence contrary to and punishable under section 205(2) of the Penal Code. Lastly, Tambang Victor made use of a title of honour which he was not entitled to. Presiding judge, Mr. Justice Bea Abednego adjourned the case to January 16, 2014 pending presentation of witnesses by the prosecution.