Chimombe, Mpofu's Trial in Presidential Goat Scand...

Chimombe, Mpofu's Trial in Presidential Goat Scandal kicks off tomorrow after false start

The high-profile trial of businessmen Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu is scheduled to commence tomorrow, following a delay today due to the defense's unpreparedness.

Lovemore Madhuku whos is representing Chimombe has indicated that he was onlly instructed recently by Ashiel Mugiya and needs time to aquaint himself with the case.

Tapson Dzvetero appearing for Mpofu said the state had not presented the defense with all requisite documents and

In court, Madhuku said he needed some time to acquaint himself with the case as he got instructed only

The two are facing serious charges related to forgery and misrepresentation in a government tender.

The allegations involve forged ZIMRA tax clearance and NSSA compliance certificates attached to a bid submitted to the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries, and Rural Development.

The tender, part of the Presidential Goat Pass-on Scheme, involved the supply and delivery of goats.

Prosecutors allege that Chimombe and Mpofu misrepresented their company, Blackdeck Private Limited, as fully compliant with regulatory requirements but switched operations to Blackdeck Livestock and Poultry Farming, an unregistered entity, tafter tender award, with Mpofu representing the company and Chimombe acting as a witness.

Acting on these misrepresentations, the ministry reportedly paid 30 percent of the contract in local currency, amounting to ZWL1.6 billion, equivalent to US$7,712,197, in two installments on April 21, 2022, and June 29, 2022.

After delays in goat delivery, the ministry engaged with Blackdeck and was told that the company had mobilized 32,500 goats ready for distribution. A subsequent verification process revealed that only 3,713 goats were actually available.

“After the Ministry of Lands realized they were being deceived by the accused persons, they then canceled the contract on August 29, 2022,” charges the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).

To date, prosecutors state that 4,208 goats worth US$331,445.25 have been delivered, but the ministry has been prejudiced by US$7,380,751.85 due to the alleged fraud.

The court will reconvene tomorrow for the opening of the trial.