(Last Updated on November 30, 2020 by GERALD NCUBE)
HARARE – Deputy Chief Magistrate Bianca Makwande is today expected to deliver her judgement on the bail application by Harare Mayor, Jacob Mafume who is facing charges of criminal abuse of office.
Mafume is accused of corruptly allocating Westlea stands to his sister and his firm’s secretary.
Mr Panganai Chiutsi, representing the State opposed bail arguing the accused was likely to interfere with witnesses and evidence because of his position. He also said the State had a strong case which might force Mafume to flee so as to evade trial.
The ruling was set to be handed down on Saturday by Magistrate Makwande but was deferred to today by fellow Magistrate, Vongai Guwariro after the former failed to attend the court session.
MDC Alliance has said Mafume’s arrest is part of an attempt by the central government to remove all Mayors who belong to the opposition.