The State concluded its presentation in the trial involving former CCC legislator Joana Mamombe and her three associates, accused of participating in unlawful gatherings with the intent to incite public violence, disrupt peace, or promote bigotry.
Additionally, Mamombe, Makomborero Haruzivishe, Tererai Obey Sithole, and Netsai Marova face charges of violating Covid-19 lockdown regulations by assembling in public, as stipulated in section 5 (3) (a) in conjunction with section (5) (1) of statutory instrument 99 of 2020 (Covid-19 prevention, containment, and treatment national lockdown) of 2020.
The State, represented by Advocate Tafara Chirambira, concluded its case after presenting all its witnesses, including the arresting police officers and mobile phone service experts who identified the accused individuals at Warren Park during the alleged incident.
The defense, represented by lawyers Messrs Alec Muchadehama and Gift Mtisi, announced their intention to seek discharge for their clients at the end of the State’s case.
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A ruling on the discharge application is expected on April 5, following the State’s response.
According to the allegations, the four defendants, in violation of lockdown protocols, gathered at Warren Park 1 shopping center in western Harare and participated in a march with others, brandishing placards urging the public to revolt against the Government if the lockdown persisted.
Upon the trial’s commencement, all four defendants pleaded not guilty, citing their rights to association and peaceful demonstration.
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