The competence and compellability of spouses in criminal proceedings in Lesotho

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Periodical article

Title:	The competence and compellability of spouses in criminal proceedings in Lesotho
Author:	Owori, M.A.
Year:	1999
Periodical:	Lesotho Law Journal: A Journal of Law and Development
Volume:	12
Issue:	1
Pages:	93-120
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Lesotho
Subjects:	criminal procedure witnesses
Abstract:	This article examines the law regarding the competence and compellability of spouses in criminal proceedings in Lesotho, with a view to its possible reform. It considers the common law disqualification of spouses to testify both on behalf of and against the other spouse, the law obtaining in Lesotho, viz. the Criminal Procedure and Evidence Act of 1981, and possible reforms, notably those suggested by English and South African legislation. The author recommends that spouse testimony should always be received unless such testimony is insignificant in the case before court and its reception would endanger the marital unit. Notes, ref.