Now murder accused wants lawyer

In the middle of his trial murder, accused Mukesh Chandradath changed his mind about representing himself and has requested legal representation. Justice Prakash Moosai subsequently appointed attorney Mewahlal Chatoor as his advocate attorney and adjourned the matter to today for attempts to be made to find an instructing attorney. The trial, in which he is charged with murdering pensioners Selwyn Grant and Ursilla Inniss in 1999, began a month ago with Chandradath representing himself. The judge appointed attorney Ramesh Deena as his legal advisor. 

The murders took place between July 31, 1999 and September 17, 1999 at the couple’s Alleyne Drive, Syne Village, Penal, home. State attorney Maureceia Joseph and the accused had embarked on a voir dire which was completed last week and the state then began calling witnesses in the presence of a 12-member jury. So far four witnesses, including Dr Eddison Furlonge and ASP Cyril Harry, have given evidence in the San Fernando First Criminal Court. Harry was the last witness to give evidence and be cross examined by the accused on Wednesday. 

When the matter resumed yesterday, the accused said he wanted legal representation and the matter was stood down. When it resumed the judge told jurors he was trying to resolve an issue of legal representation for the accused. It said the accused was now availing himself to legal representations. Indicating he had appointed Chatoor. The judge said an instructing attorney was required in capital matter, adding he would give them the rest of the day to get one. He also indicated he would be giving the attorneys time to prepare their case so the trial should resume on Monday. However, he asked them to return on court today.