Court denies Charles Bissue’s request for passport release

The High Court has dismissed an application from Charles Bissue. He is a former presidential staffer and the first accused in a criminal trial. Bissue sought temporary release of his passport to travel to the UK and the US.

He claimed he needed to travel for academic purposes. He provided a provisional admission letter and a purchased flight ticket. However, the Court found his reasons unconvincing.

The Court noted that he bought the flight ticket after filing his application. The admission letter did not confirm full enrollment at the school. These factors made his application weak and without merit.

State prosecutors opposed Bissue's request as well. They argued that his travel plans lacked genuine intent. They expressed concerns about potential interference with ongoing criminal proceedings.

The case has been adjourned until 29 May 2025.