CANADIAN YouTuber Christopher “Chris Must List” Hughes has been advised to approach the High Court to seek permission to attend his sedition case hearings via video conference as he continues his global travels.
Hughes made this request during his appearance before acting Chief Magistrate Christine Charles on Friday. He explained that he had pre-booked trips to various African countries and could only return to Trinidad for the case in January next year.
“My request is that I can appear on camera anywhere in the world, so it would not affect my ability to travel,” Hughes stated.
However, Magistrate Charles said that she could not accommodate the request due to her lack of authority to alter his bail conditions, which mandate his physical presence at each court appearance. She recommended that Hughes apply to the High Court for a variation.
“I have no jurisdiction to vary that order. I have no power to tell you that you can appear virtually,” she said.
During the hearing, attorney Russell Warner asked that the accused attorneys withdraw from the case. Warner said, “We are regrettably at an impasse with Mr Hughes and are forced to withdraw.” The application to withdraw was granted.
Earlier this week, Hughes announced his intention to represent himself after receiving a US$50,000 invoice from his legal team. His legal team included Pamela Elder, SC, and former attorney general Anand Ramlogan.
Magistrate Charles cautioned him about the potential consequences if convicted, noting, “The maximum penalty is a term of imprisonment of two years.”
State prosecutor Valene Guerra-Abraham reported that most of the evidence had been disclosed, with only two to three witness statements pending, expected by the end of next month. Magistrate Charles reminded Hughes of his obligations under the Criminal Procedure Rules, including making filings and indicating any evidential objections or witnesses requiring cross-examination.
The case has been adjourned to January 14 next year, at which time Magistrate Charles is expected to set a trial date.
Hughes, a 45-year-old father of three, was charged in May with publishing a statement with seditious intent related to posts on his travel vlog during an extended visit to Trinidad earlier this year. He pleaded not guilty and was granted $100,000 bail, later modified to permit international travel with the condition of returning for court appearances.
Attorney Danielle Thompson also represented the state.
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