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Code of Canons of the African Church (Carthage, 419)

Local councils, NPNF II.14

8. Canon 8

Of those who make accusation against an elder; and that no criminal is to be suffered to bring a charge against a bishop.

Numidius, the bishop of Maxula, said: Moreover, there are very many, not of good life, who think that their elders or bishops should be the butt for accusation; ought such to be easily admitted or no? Aurelius the bishop said: Is it the pleasure of your charity that he who is ensnared by divers wickednesses should have no voice of accusation against these?

All the bishops said: If he is criminous, his accusation is not to be received.

Notes · Ancient Epitome of Canon VIII

It has seemed good that they who are themselves defendants for crimes should not bring accusations; nor should they be allowed to lay crimes to anyone’s charge.

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