Lawyers for the Zimbabwean hunter who led the expedition that killed famed lion Cecil have applied for his trial to be thrown out of court.
Theo Bronkhorst has been charged with "failing to prevent an illegal hunt".
His lawyer told the court the charge was "not clear and the circumstances do not constitute a chargeable offence", reports AFP news agency.
The lion - a favourite at Hwange National Park - was shot by US dentist Walter Palmer with a bow and arrow.
Mr Bronkhorst denies any wrongdoing, saying he had obtained all the permits required to kill an elderly lion that was outside the national park boundaries.
The trial in Hwange, south-west of Zimbabwe's capital Harare, has been adjourned until 15 October.
The magistrate will announce then whether it will go ahead.
Cecil the lion
A major tourist attraction in Hwange National Park
The 13-year-old animal was renowned for being friendly towards visitors
Recognisable because of his large size and distinctive black mane
Led two prides containing six lionesses and 12 cubs along with another lion, Jericho
Was being monitored as part of an Oxford University study into lion conservation
- Published30 July 2015
- Published7 August 2015
