(Last Updated on January 10, 2021 by GERALD NCUBE)
HARARE – Detained Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume who has been in remand prison since last month is reportedly not feeling well and his health is continuously getting worse, his lawyer has said.
Mafume is being accused of trying to bribe a key witness in his case where he is alleged to have given his sister and another employee at his law firm residential stands without following due process.
He had been out on bail but was later re-arrested on accusations of trying to tamper with witnesses.
“The situation is bad. He was given antibiotics by prison doctors, but it’s not helping,” said his lawyer Tonderai Bhatasara, adding that he was now visibly sick.
Commenting on the issue, the MDC Alliance President Nelson Chamisa said the pre-trial incarceration of Mafume was unlawful as every person had the right to be regarded innocent until proven guilty.
“The Mayor of Harare, Cllr Jacob Mafume’s health has deteriorated drastically whilst being held in remand prison. The right to health is fundamental for all citizens including even for those in prison. Mayor Mafume deserves proper medical attention by a doctor of his choice.
“Mayor Mafume has not been convicted of any crime. The law regards him as innocent until proven guilty. He has spent a month in remand prison. Pre-trial incarceration is abuse of law. The Mayor must be treated with dignity that every citizen deserves. Right to life is inalienable!” said the opposition party leader.