The Appellant petitioned for a decree of divorce in Laela
Primary Court in Sumbawanga. The matter was heard ex parte in the
absence of the Respondent and a decree of divorce was granted. The Respondent
dissatisfied with the trial court’s decision, lodged an application for
extension of time to file an appeal before the District Court of Sumbawanga.
The District Court upheld the appeal and quashed the former trial court
decision. The Appellant was aggrieved with the decision of the District Court,
hence, this appeal. The Court considered the appropriateness of the proceedings
in the lower courts.