Four men accused of a gang rape that ignited nationwide protests following the release of a disturbing video appeared in court on Monday.
The suspects, whose identities were withheld, pleaded not guilty to charges of gang rape and sodomy.
The trial is set to begin in earnest on Tuesday and is expected to last four days.
Assistant prosecutor Renatus Mkude urged for calm amidst the heightened public tensions surrounding the case, which he described as “unique.”
The case has gripped the nation after a former mayor claimed the assault was filmed and involved Tanzanian soldiers, allegations that have not been substantiated.
Public anger escalated after a local police chief labeled the victim a sex worker and the attackers as “ordinary drunks.”
The officer has since been reassigned following widespread condemnation.
Rights groups have denounced the police official’s comments, asserting that they appear to justify sexual violence.
As the trial unfolds, the nation watches closely, hoping for justice for the victim and accountability for those involved.