Criminal Court “A” Judge, Roosevelt Z. Willie on Thursday, September 4, 2025, rejected a defense motion seeking live televised coverage of the high-profile Capitol Building arson case, ruling that such a request was contrary to established judicial rules and risked undermining the integrity of the court. The defense team had argued that the extraordinary public interest in the case warranted live broadcast. However, Judge Willie dismissed the plea, stressing that the motion amounted to “grandstanding” rather than a matter of genuine public interest.
“There is no specific case that is in the interest of the public. All cases are in the interest of the public,” Judge Willie stated during open court proceedings. He further noted that the Judiciary has clear regulations on the matter. Citing Rule 11 of the general rules of court, the judge underscored that photography, audio or video recording, and live streaming of trial proceedings are strictly prohibited under current guidelines issued by former Chief Justice, Gloria Musu-Scott. Granting the defense request, he warned, would amount to selective treatment and could bring the court “into public disrepute.”
In a related development, the court deferred ruling on whether the trial would proceed in its current form, pending the outcome of medical evaluations of six defendants who have alleged abuse while in state custody. Defense lawyers claimed their clients were tortured and sodomized during the investigation stage, raising questions about due process and the admissibility of confessions. Judge Willie also ordered the clerk of court to formally communicate with the John F. Kennedy Medical Center (JFK) to conduct thorough medical examinations of the accused.
While defense lawyers partially welcomed the ruling, they immediately petitioned the court to consider using a private hospital instead of JFK, arguing that impartiality was essential in a matter of such sensitivity. The court has not yet ruled on this request. The Capitol Building Arson case has gripped national attention, not only because of its alleged assault on a symbol of state power but also due to the involvement of prominent figures, including former House Speaker, Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa. The unfolding proceedings continue to attract widespread media coverage, though under the judge’s latest ruling, direct live broadcasting will remain off-limits.
The trial is expected to resume once the results of the medical examinations are submitted to the court. Judge Willie emphasized that ensuring the rights of the accused, alongside maintaining judicial integrity, remains paramount as the case progresses.
Author: Melvin Jackson
