More Delays in Bail Hearing of Detained Activists
Pro-democracy campaigners Samuel Gwenzi, Namatai Kwekweza, and Robson Chere find themselves spending another night behind bars as their bail application hearing faces postponement.
Originally scheduled for Wednesday, the hearing was rescheduled to Thursday, August 8, 2024.
The state, which initially committed to proceeding with the hearing on Wednesday, cited the unavailability of a crucial second witness, Detective Panganai Gwati, as the reason for the delay.
According to state representatives, Gwati, who was expected to present evidence in the case, received a summons to testify at the Mbare Magistrate Court in a separate matter involving Tineyi Munetsi.
Jeremiah Bhamu, leading the defense counsel, strongly opposed the postponement. “We have not been informed about the status of the Mbare case,” Bhamu argued. “Nor do we know whether Panganai Gwati has already testified. The grounds for this postponement lack proper justification.”
Bhamu further emphasized that Gwati's testimony would not address the issues raised by the state in their opposition to the bail applications.
More Delays in Bail Hearing of Detained Activists
“It's essential to note that the delays in this matter are not due to the accused but rather the state, which keeps making repeated applications,” Bhamu added.
Anesu Chirenje, representing the state, defended the postponement, asserting that Gwati's testimony would corroborate the evidence provided by the first witness.
“As the arresting officer, Gwati can shed light on the alleged mistreatment of the accused during their arrest while in custody,” Chirenje explained.
Despite the defense's objections, Magistrate Ruth Moyo ruled in favor of the state, pushing the bail hearing to Thursday.
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Vusimuzi Moyo, formerly part of the activist group, had his case separated and secured a new lawyer, TB Ndoro. His bail hearing was also held today.
