Zimbabwe's courts take on high-profile cases

Munyaradzi Mashiri

Zim Now Court Correspondent

In a year marked by significant judicial milestones, Zimbabwe's courts have proven that no one is above the law. From politicians and businessmen to government officials and opposition leaders, the justice system has held individuals accountable for their actions, regardless of their social or political standing.

One of the most notable cases was that of politician and businessman Mike Chimombe, who, alongside Moses Mpofu, faced charges of misappropriating approximately US$7 million intended for a presidential goat scheme.

The project, designed to improve goat breeds and benefit communities, fell short of expectations when only 6,900 goats were delivered out of the 86,000 planned. Chimombe and Mpofu also faced fresh allegations of using fake documents to win a tender for streetlight rehabilitation in Harare.

In another high-profile case, Neville Mutsvangwa, the son of Monica and Chris Mutsvangwa, was arrested for allegedly dealing in foreign currency amid the government's crackdown on money changers following the introduction of the Zimbabwe Gold currency. After a month behind bars, Neville is out on bail, awaiting trial.

Harare Town Clerk Josiah Chisango, along with four other officials, faced charges related to the illegal awarding of a contract to Moses Mpofu's unqualified company, Juluka Enndo Joint Venture. Chisango was eventually granted bail after an appeal at the High Court.

The opposition was not spared, with interim Citizens Coalition for Change leader Jameson Timba and 70 party activists arrested in June for holding an unsanctioned political gathering. The group was detained until November, though their sentences were wholly suspended.

Former Zengeza West legislator Job Sikhala also made headlines after spending 18 months in custody. Alongside his co-accused, Godfrey Sithole, Sikhala received a two-year sentence, which was wholly suspended.