Former Chitungwiza Mayor released after arrest for...

Former Chitungwiza Mayor released after arrest for anti-Mnangagwa protest

Philemon Jambaya

Zim Now Editor

Former Chitungwiza Mayor, Lovemore Maiko, has been released on bail after his arrest on Tuesday for allegedly leading a protest against the ruling ZANU PF party's efforts to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa's term in office beyond 2028.

Maiko, a former opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) councillor, was charged with participating in a gathering with the intent to promote public violence, breaches of peace, or bigotry, a violation of Section 37(1) (a) of the Zimbabwean Constitution.

Prosecutors alleged that Maiko and an estimated 50 unidentified accomplices held an unsanctioned gathering at Zengeza 3 Shopping Centre in Chitungwiza. During this gathering, they allegedly sang political songs and chanted slogans such as "2030 tazviramba" ("No to 2030"), "Siyanai na Chamisa" ("Leave Chamisa alone"), and "Pasi na Mnangagwa" ("Down with Mnangagwa").

These slogans, according to the prosecution, were intended to incite unlawful and violent demonstrations against the ruling party's controversial plans to extend President Mnangagwa's tenure.

Maiko, represented by Tapiwa Muchineripi of Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights, appeared before Chitungwiza Magistrate Dennis Mangosi on Thursday. Magistrate Mangosi granted him bail of $200 and imposed several conditions, including weekly reporting to ZRP St Mary's Police Station, residing at his given address, refraining from interfering with state witnesses, and surrendering his passport to the court.