Daniel Andrews called to court on accusations of treason

Premier Daniel Andrews has been called before a court on a bizarre claim after a private citizen accused him of treason.

Premier Daniel Andrews has been called before a court in a bizarre case where a regular Joe has accused him of treason.

A citizen has brought a claim of one count of treason against the Victorian leader in a private prosecution.

The case — while expected to be dismissed — has exposed a little-known power where anyone can pay $85.70 and bring a private prosecution against another person.

The practice hails from the early days of the justice system, where victims of crimes brought their own cases to the king’s court.

The Premier will not appear in court in person. Picture: Sarah Matray

A man by the name of Anthony Herman was listed in court documents as the informant who brought the claim, with the matter listed in the Myrtleford Magistrates’ Court on Friday — though it’s understood the Premier will not appear.

The Myrtleford Magistrates’ Court — just 30km from Bright in the state’s northeast — is open just one day a week.

Mr Andrews’ matter is among 34 cases to be heard by the Myrtleford court between 9am and 1pm on Friday.

It’s understood the Commonwealth Department of Public Prosecutions (CDPP) will appear on Friday as a friend of the court.

The CDPP has the power to take over a private prosecution and discontinue it if it considers there is insufficient evidence or if the matter is not in the public interest.

The matter against Mr Andrews has been listed for a mention at 9.30am on Friday.