Tawanda Homba
Chiredzi-The long-awaited trial of former Masvingo Province Zanu PF strong man and former Minister of State, Kudakwashe Bhasikiti for allegedly raping a minor at his unregistered orphanage has kicked off at Chiredzi Regional Court.
Bhasikiti appeared before Chiredzi regional Magistrate, Judith Zuyu facing rape charges, Noel Muranda appeared for the State.
The trial will continue next week on Monday 13 March 2023.
The embattled former Minister is represented by Kossam Chuma of Chuma and Gurajena Legal Practitioners.
Bhasikiti was granted ZWL$60 000 bail and is being tried from home.
Bhasikiti allegedly raped the 12 year old girl sometime in 2019 at Mwenezi Children’s Home at his Moriah Ranch Farm and forcibly closed her mouth to prevent her from screaming during the act.
“Sometime in 2019 at Moriah Ranch,Mwenezi Bhasikiti entered complainant’s bedroom during the night and closed complainant’s mouth using his hand. Accused person then removed complainant’s pant and also removed his khakhi short. Accused person then inserted his erect penis into complainant’s vagina and had sexual intercourse with the complainant once without her consent,” said the State.
The matter came to light on December 12, 2022 after the complainant now 15 approached Phanuel Dembetembe who stays at the orphanage and narrated her story to him. Dembetembe made a Police report leading to Bhasikiti’s arrest on December 14, 2022.
