MARTIN MAWAYA
GWERU — Former Chiwundura legislator Livingstone Chimina and 13 pro-Nelson Chamisa youths spent the night in custody after the State requested time to file written submissions opposing their bail application.
The group appeared before provincial magistrate Arnold Maburo, where the prosecution indicated that it would submit written reasons explaining why the accused should be denied bail.
The 14 are charged with contravening Section 7(5) of the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act [Chapter 11:23] for allegedly failing to give notice of a public gathering.
According to the State, police received a tip-off on March 28 that about 20 people had convened an unsanctioned meeting at Matende Bar near Mkoba 4 suburb in Gweru.
Officers from the Zimbabwe Republic Police reaction group reportedly attended the scene and found the group holding a meeting in an open space near the bar.
Prosecutors allege the gathering was intended to discuss and disseminate information on the Constitutional Amendment Bill.
The court heard that some of the participants were wearing matching white caps inscribed with the words “God is in it”.
Upon noticing approaching police vehicles, the group allegedly dispersed, with some entering the bar while others fled.
Police reportedly pursued the suspects and arrested 14, while several others escaped.
Investigations later established that the accused had not notified the Officer Commanding ZRP Gweru Rural District of their intention to hold the gathering, as required by law, the State alleges.
The State, represented by Hellen Khoza, declined to make oral submissions, arguing that presenting arguments for each accused person would take considerable time and that written submissions would allow the prosecution to present a comprehensive case.
Magistrate Maburo directed the State to file its written submissions before noon today, with a ruling on the bail application expected later.
However, defence lawyer Reginald Chidawanyika argued that delaying the bail proceedings was prejudicial to the accused and violated their constitutional rights.
The accused are Alois Ziumbwa, Tendai Munhamo, Auther Kazalo, Judith Sibanda, Malvin Chikwekete, Calvin Maganga, Clive Nyathi, Gilson Chibaya, Chimina, Ottilia Mnkandla, Prince Muzhanda, Nicola Chatambudza, Tarisai Machando and Wellington Chimoto.
They were remanded in custody to April 13 pending the bail ruling.
