FROM KUSEKWA KUSEKWA IN MOSHI
The High Court in Moshi has upheld a finding of defamation against former Rombo MP Joseph Selasini, but reduced the compensation payable to former NCCR-Mageuzi chairman James Mbatia from 150m/- to 100m/-.
Delivering judgment on October 13, 2026, Judge Safina Simfukwe found no reason to overturn the trial court’s conclusion that Mr Selasini had defamed Mr Mbatia. However, she considered the damages excessive and reduced the award by 50m/-.
“I am of the same opinion that the respondent succeeded to prove his claims against the appellant. All elements of the tort of defamation were positively proved against the appellant,” the judge said.
The appeal arose from Civil Case No. 8723 of 2025 at the Rombo District Court at Mkuu, which had awarded Mr Mbatia 150m/- in compensation.
Selasini ordered to pay Mbatia 100m/-
Judge Safina said the trial magistrate “did not leave any stone unturned” when resolving the issues before the court. She concluded that Mr Mbatia had proved his case on a balance of probabilities, the standard of proof required in civil proceedings.
During the appeal hearing, Mr Selasini challenged the trial court’s financial and territorial jurisdiction to hear the case. He also contested the basis and amount of the damages awarded.
The High Court upheld the finding of liability but determined that 100m/- was sufficient compensation for the false and defamatory statements made against Mr Mbatia.
The dispute arose from a meeting held on March 2, 2023 at Mzee Chibura’s residence on Mlango Mmoja Street in Nyasho Ward, Musoma, Mara Region. Mr Mbatia’s claim concerned statements made by Mr Selasini during that meeting.
In his written statement of defence, Mr Selasini denied making defamatory statements against Mr Mbatia, maintaining that he had been in Musoma to attend an official meeting with party members.
The High Court’s decision leaves the finding of defamation against Mr Selasini in place, with the compensation reduced to 100m/-.
