Former Zanu-PF youth leader Kudzanayi Chipanga, who is facing charges of making statements undermining public confidence in the military, yesterday applied for relaxation of his bail conditions.
Chipanga was released by the High Court on $500 bail and ordered to report twice a day at Borrowdale Police Station and to reside at his given address until the matter is finalised. He was also ordered to surrender travel documents and not to interfere with State witnesses. Chipanga, who is represented by Professor Lovemore Madhuku, wants the court to reduce the reporting conditions to once a week.
In his application, Prof Madhuku said it is unlikely the State will pursue the matter since the persons criticised in Chipanga’s press statement are now in Government. Said Madhuku:
The charges are based on a political speech and the State indicated at the initial remand that it would complete investigations in two weeks and there is no indication that the State needs more time for investigation and there is virtually nothing more to investigate.
The Supreme court emphasised that the failure of the State to complete it’s investigations and strengthen its case is a fresh fact within the contemplation of Section 126(1)(ii). The political dispensation is now clear, the persons criticised are now the leaders of the country and it is unlikely that the charge will be pursued.
Magistrate Mrs Rumbidzai Mugwagwa rolled over the matter to today for the State’s response and ruling.
More: Herald
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