A funeral service in Arusha in which Raila Odinga attended may have given estranged businessman Don Bosco Gichana lifeline.
Mr. Bosco, a close ally of Raila, has been in Arusha prison for five years with his case stalling in the process.
Accused of money laundering and fraud, Bosco was arraigned in court on Monday but had his case postponed to Thursday this week.
"At least we can now smile. Having access to court for defense is a milestone," said blogger Kabz Nyar Kisii, an activist who has been following the case.
But in Arusha during the burial of Monica Joseph, President Magufuli is said to have asked prosecutors to expedite the case following the request by Raila.
A source privy to Raila's meeting with Magufuli said the two discussed in lengthy on how the condemned businessman could be released within the confines of the law.
"They met and Bosco's case was discussed. Raila asked Tanzania government to expedite the case.
"Authorities have been dragging the case without evidence and the two leaders agreed that he must be subjected to court for formal clearance," he said
Mr. Odinga has been under pressure to handle the case following his close ties with Bosco.
At a rally in Kisii and Nyamira last month, he was tasked to help the family get justice for the embattled politician.
Dagoretti North MP Simba Arati has been leading campaigns for Bosco's release.
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