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Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) faction leader Jameson Timba and 34 party activists were handed wholly suspended sentences on Wednesday, November 27.
The group, which spent over five months in custody, was last week convicted of participating in an unlawful gathering.
Magistrate Collet Ncube sentenced Timba and Jaison Kautsa to two years imprisonment, wholly suspended for five years, on the condition that they don’t commit an offence involving an illegal gathering with the intent to promote public violence.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) confirmed the sentences in a statement. Said the NPA:
<blockquote>
Jameson Timba and 33 others were sentenced today at the Harare Magistrates’ Court. Jameson Timba and Jason Kunatsa were sentenced to 2 years imprisonment wholly suspended for 5 years on condition the accused persons do not commit an offence involving unlawful gathering with intent to promote public violence for which they will be sentenced to imprisonment without the option of a fine. The rest were sentenced as follows:
Accused 12, 29, 31, 34, 36, 54, 57, 60, 65 &amp; 74
12 months imprisonment wholly suspended for 5 years on the same conditions as above.
Accused 9, 13, 14, 62, 63, 64, 75, 76
14 months imprisonment wholly suspended for 5 years on the same conditions as above.
Accused 26, 28, 38, 39, 42, 43, 48, 52, 53, 55, 56, 59, 66, 77
16 months imprisonment wholly suspended on the same conditions as above.
Accused 40
6 months imprisonment wholly suspended on the same conditions as above.
</blockquote>
In his ruling, Ncube said most of the convicts were poor people while some of them were breadwinners, and first-time offenders deserving of a second chance, hence it was in the interest of justice to give a wholly suspended sentence. He said:
<blockquote>
The court believes that since they are first offenders, they should be given another chance. Many of them struggle to raise even the fine, and most are breadwinners with unstable sources of income. Their continued detention would only burden their families.
</blockquote>
Timba and 79 others were arrested at his Avondale house on a charge of holding an illegal gathering with intent to cause public violence.
Their party, however, maintained that they were commemorating the Day of the African Child which falls on 16 June.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Jameson Timba and 34 activists from CCC were given suspended sentences for joining an unlawful gathering. Timba and Jaison Kautsa got 2 years, suspended for 5 years. Other male activists got 16 months suspended, and females got 12 months suspended. The judge said most of them were poor, first-time offenders and breadwinners needing a second chance. They were arrested during a gathering but claimed they were celebrating the Day of the African Child. The judge didn't want to burden their families with more trouble, so he decided to give them another chance.

Jameson Timba And 34 CCC Activists Receive Wholly Suspended Sentences

A Harare magistrate on Monday, November 27, postponed the sentencing of CCC faction leader Jameson Timba and 34 of his supporters, who were convicted last week for participating in an unlawful gathering.
The group, arrested on June 16 while commemorating the International Day of the African Child had initially faced charges of disorderly conduct. However, they were acquitted of that charge after the conclusion of the State’s case.
On Friday, Magistrate Collet Ncube, presiding over the Harare Circuit Court, acquitted 28 other defendants due to insufficient evidence linking them to the gathering.
While Timba and the 34 others were scheduled for sentencing on Monday, the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party announced that the sentencing has now been rescheduled to Wednesday, November 27, 2024. The party said:
<blockquote>
Senator Jameson Timba and other members of the #Avondale78, who were unjustly found guilty, have had their sentence postponed again.
The initial sentence was set for today, but the new sentence date is now Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at 1115 hours in Court 11.
This latest development appears to be a deliberate act by the regime to further persecute innocent individuals who desire a better Zimbabwe, where the constitution is highly respected.
The postponement will extend their unjust detention to 164 days.
</blockquote>
In delivering the verdict last week, Magistrate Ncube said that while a meeting had undoubtedly taken place, the number of attendees posed a significant risk of public disturbance, thus justifying the conviction. Ruled the magistrate:
<blockquote>
The presence of those gathered at 6 Downey Road cannot be overlooked. While the first accused (Timba) claimed he merely provided accommodation and was unaware of the situation’s developments, it is a fact that he facilitated the gathering at his premises.
</blockquote>
Prosecutor Lancelot Mutsokoti presented evidence that on June 16 this year, around 2 PM, police received information about an unsanctioned gathering at Jameson Timba’s house. It is believed the meeting was intended to plan unlawful demonstrations in Harare.
Upon arriving at the location, police reported hearing a large amount of noise and observed a sizable gathering.
When the suspects allegedly began throwing stones at a police vehicle, causing minor damage, reinforcements were called in.
To disperse the crowd, police used tear gas, leading to the arrest of the suspects.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A group of people were arrested for gathering without permission, but most of them were let go due to lack of evidence. The leader, Jameson Timba, and 34 others were found guilty and were supposed to be sentenced but it got postponed. The party they belong to thinks this is unfair and a way for the government to be mean to people who want a better country. The court said there was a meeting that could cause trouble, so they were convicted. Police were called to the meeting, and some people threw stones at their car. Now the sentencing is delayed until 2024.

Magistrate Postpones Sentencing Of Timba, 34 CCC Activists

Jameson Timba, the interim Chief Administrator of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party and 34 of his supporters have been convicted for participating in an unlawful gathering.
The group, who has been in custody since their arrest on 16 June, the International Day of the African Child, was also initially charged with disorderly conduct. However, they were acquitted of that charge after the conclusion of the State’s case.
On Friday, Magistrate Collet Ncube, presiding over the Harare Circuit Court, acquitted 28 other defendants, citing insufficient evidence to link them to the gathering.
The convicted individuals, including Timba, are now awaiting sentencing on Monday. In delivering the verdict, Magistrate Ncube said that while a meeting had undoubtedly taken place, the number of attendees posed a significant risk of public disturbance, thus justifying the conviction. Ruled the magistrate:
<blockquote>
The presence of those gathered at 6 Downey Road cannot be overlooked. While the first accused (Timba) claimed he merely provided accommodation and was unaware of the situation’s developments, it is a fact that he facilitated the gathering at his premises.
</blockquote>
Prosecutor Lancelot Mutsokoti presented evidence that on June 16 this year, around 2 PM, police received information about an unsanctioned gathering at Jameson Timba’s house. It is believed the meeting was intended to plan unlawful demonstrations in Harare.
Upon arriving at the location, police reported hearing a large amount of noise and observed a sizable gathering.
When the suspects allegedly began throwing stones at a police vehicle, causing minor damage, reinforcements were called in.
To disperse the crowd, police used tear gas, leading to the arrest of the suspects.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Jameson Timba and 34 people from the CCC party were found guilty for joining an illegal meeting. Some of them were charged with disorderly conduct but were cleared. 28 others were acquitted due to lack of evidence. They are now waiting for their punishment. The meeting was said to be planning protests. Police came and found a big group causing trouble. They threw stones at the police and were arrested. More information can be found on the Pindula News website.

Jameson Timba, 34 CCC Activists Convicted

The long-awaited judgment for Jameson Timba and 66 other Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) activists was on Monday postponed again due to the absence of the presiding magistrate, Collet Ncube.
Magistrate Donald Ndirowei said that the case would be adjourned until Friday, November 15, 2024.
Timba and his co-accused were arrested in June while commemorating the Day of the African Child in Harare and were charged with participating in an unlawful gathering.
They have been denied bail on three separate occasions and have remained in detention throughout the trial.
While the trial concluded last month, the activists continue to be incarcerated in conditions described by lawyers and human rights defenders as “inhabitable.”
Darlington Chigumbu, who is Budiriro South and the CCC Secretary for Information and Publicity, said:
<blockquote>
They should not be in jail in the first place. We are deeply disappointed by the drawn-out nature of this case. Justice delayed is justice denied.
They know these individuals did not commit a crime, so they are punishing them. It is politically motivated.
We remain hopeful that on Friday, the judgment will free our colleagues so that they can go home and reconnect with their families. They have been in jail for far too long.
</blockquote>
Initially, there were 80 suspects in the case. However, 12 of the suspects, including Timba’s son Sean, were discharged at the conclusion of the State’s case.
The entire group was ultimately acquitted of the charge of disorderly conduct.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The judge didn't show up to give a ruling for Jameson Timba and CCC activists. The case was postponed to November 15. Timba and others were arrested for being in a gathering. They were denied bail and have been in jail since June. The trial ended last month, but they are still in jail. A CCC member said they are innocent and the case is politically motivated. They hope for a fair judgment on Friday. Initially, there were 80 suspects, but 12 were already discharged. Finally, the whole group was cleared of disorderly conduct charges.

Harare Magistrate In No Show To Deliver Ruling On Timba, CCC Activists' Case

Sixty-five Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) activists, including former party senator Jameson Timba, were denied bail for the third time by the Harare Magistrates Court on Monday.
Magistrate Collet Ncube ruled that there were no changed circumstances justifying the release of the activists, who were arrested on June 16, 2024.
Lawyer Webster Jiti, representing the accused, said that they will appeal the magistrate’s ruling in the High Court. Said Jiti:
<blockquote>
The basis of the application was that there is now a lapse of considerable time since the accused persons were put behind bars and bearing in mind that we have at least 65 witnesses going to the defence case it will take us several months to complete the trial.
The seriousness of their offence has been alleviated by the collapse of the other charge, so we thought they had a better chance of getting bail.
Obviously we will challenge the correctness of the ruling at the High Court.
</blockquote>
The CCC activists were recently acquitted on a charge of disorderly conduct in a public place leaving them facing one final charge of holding an unlawful gathering.
The 65 are part of the initial 79 activists who were arrested at Timba’s home in Avondale, Harare while commemorating International Youth Day.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Sixty-five CCC activists, including Jameson Timba, were denied bail for the third time by a court. They were arrested in June 2024. Their lawyer will appeal the ruling in the High Court because they believe they should be released. The activists were acquitted of one charge but still face another. They were arrested while commemorating Youth Day. They will have to wait for the trial to finish before getting out of jail.

Jameson Timba, 64 CCC Activists Denied Bail For The Third Time

The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has demanded the immediate release of high school teacher Ronald Hondongwa and 65 other individuals who were arrested on June 16, 2024, while commemorating the Day of the African Child in Harare.
Hondongwa and 77 others were initially charged with public violence and gathering without police clearance.
The charge of gathering without police clearance has since been dismissed by the courts, but only 12 of those arrested have been released so far.
Hondongwa and 65 others are now accused of throwing stones at the police officers who arrested them.
However, ARTUZ said Hondongwa has a disability and is physically incapable of even holding a spoon, let alone throwing stones.
Furthermore, state witnesses have acknowledged this fact, but state prosecutors continue to insist that Hondongwa threw stones. Said ARTUZ:
<blockquote>
Cde Hondongwa is an ICT teacher, and evidence to that effect was presented in Court by lawyers and accepted by the State. He is teaching forms 3 and 4 at Zengeza 4 High School.
The learners are being denied their right to education as their teacher remains caged facing spurious charges. The Form 4 class sits for public examinations and is definitely going to be prejudiced.
Hondongwa’s wife Phillis Pikitai was at some point arrested and spent days in detention after raising a placard demanding the release of her husband.
It is not proper to leave the burden of fighting for justice to the hands of the spouses of the persecuted.
</blockquote>
ARTUZ says it is the collective responsibility of all citizens worldwide to push back against injustice wherever it may occur.
The organisation has called on people around the globe to join their demand for the immediate release of Hondongwa and the other 65 individuals who remain detained.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A teacher in Zimbabwe named Ronald Hondongwa was arrested for throwing stones at police officers, but he is physically unable to do so because of a disability. He was initially charged with being part of a violent group without police permission, but that charge was dropped. Even though witnesses say he cannot throw stones, he is still being accused. His students are suffering because he is not able to teach them. His wife was also arrested for protesting his detention. The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe is asking people to help get Hondongwa and the others released.

High School Teacher "Who Cannot Even Hold A Spoon" Detained For Throwing Stones At Police Officers

Magistrate Colleta Ncube on Wednesday, 04 September, acquitted Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) interim leader Jameson Timba and 77 other party activists of charges related to disorderly conduct.
The CCC activists had been detained for three months following their arrest in June at Timba’s residence.
According to the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR), the “persecution” of these opposition activists has faced a “spectacular collapse.” ZLHR said:
<blockquote>
The persecution and prosecution of Senator Timba and 77 Harare residents has suffered a spectacular collapse after Magistrate Colleta Ncube acquitted them of disorderly conduct charges having spent 3 months in prison detention following their arrest in June at Senator Timba’s residence.
</blockquote>
The CCC activists were arrested at Timba’s house where they were commemorating the International Day of the African Child on 16 June 2024.
On 17 June, police charged the detainees with “gathering with intent to promote public violence and disorderly conduct.”
Meanwhile, ZLHR executive director Roselyn Hanzi said the acquittal of the accused persons on disorderly conduct charges by Harare magistrate Collet Ncube does not guarantee their release from detention. She elaborated in a post on X:
<blockquote>
Of the 78 people arrested, only 12 have been discharged of all the crimes they were accused of, being charge of (i) Disorderly Conduct or in the alternatively (ii) Participating in a gathering with intent to promote public violence, breaches of the peace or bigotry.
65 who include Jameson Timba will proceed to defence case on charge of “Participating in a gathering….” the trial of the 66th person is yet to commence as she was severely injured during the arrest.
Her trial is yet to commence after the procedure of separation of trial was invoked when she was hospitalised.
</blockquote>
The accused persons listed below have been released after Ncube: “Taking into account that it was a gathering which attracted people who did not reside at the premises, also considering that there was pandemonium, it creates a prima facie case.”
<ul>
<li>Resca Munetsi, accused 10 who was collecting money in Avondale.</li>
<li>Violet Chitsindi who had visited a friend.</li>
<li>Simon Size who was looking for piece jobs.</li>
<li>Calvin Charumapasi, a vendor.</li>
<li>Redeem Mandizvidza who was distributing fliers.</li>
<li>Tatenda Mukwembi, a driver.</li>
<li>Tawanda Mukucha Prince Madhena, who was at the local shops.</li>
<li>Wisdom Nyama, who was passing by Timba’s house.</li>
<li>Tobias Mangwayana, a vendor.</li>
<li>Lucia Kandemiiri, a tenant at Timba’s residence.</li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Jameson Timba and 77 CCC activists were found not guilty of disorderly conduct charges after being arrested in June. They were celebrating the International Day of the African Child at Timba's house when they were detained. The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights said that the persecution of these opposition activists failed. They had spent 3 months in jail before being acquitted. The police initially charged them with trying to promote public violence. But the magistrate decided they were innocent. This is good news for Timba and the other activists.

Jameson Timba, 77 CCC Activists Acquitted Of Disorderly Conduct

Police in Gokwe have arrested 12 individuals for allegedly participating in an anti-government demonstration, the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) has confirmed.
The group reportedly voiced their opposition to President Mnangagwa and his government, particularly regarding his recent appointment as Chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
According to the Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum, the suspected members of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) are being detained at Chitekete Police Station in connection with a flash protest that took place at Gokwe Centre on August 15, 2024.
It is alleged that among those arrested are the two wives of Tawanda Siampongo from the Gokwe-Kabuyuni constituency, who were taken into custody after the police failed to find their husband.
In a viral video circulated on Thursday, the leader of a group of activists, who identified himself as Givemore Chuma, <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/gokwe-activists-stage-protest-ahead-of-sadc-summit/">said</a>:
<blockquote>
SADC must not be used to sanitise President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s illegitimacy. This is what we are saying as the inhabitants of Gokwe. We are holding these demonstrations to send out a clear message.
It has been common knowledge through the years that people from Gokwe are backward, but today we have taken the first step in sending the message that we are not supporting the conferment of the SADC chairmanship to Mnangagwa.
He must leave the office. No one voted for him to power. What lessons does SADC intend to impart to citizens across the region?
It is unfair to reward election theft in such a manner. What we appreciate is the fact that Advocate Nelson Chamisa won this election and he is the one who deserves the chairmanship.
I am not the one who is saying this. I am just the spokesperson on behalf of Zimbabweans and the people of Gokwe.
If he (Chamisa) is not the one to take the helm then we have to take it to the street on the 17th of August. The Constitution’s Section 59 allows us to demonstrate.
ZANU PF has made it clear that power in Zimbabwe will not be transferred through the ballot. We need a democratic government in Zimbabwe. The ruling party has failed for the past 44 years.
</blockquote>
In a separate incident, the ZLHR reported that opposition activist Costa Machingauta was abducted from his home by armed men on Thursday night.
His lawyers ultimately located him in holding cells where he had been held and not allowed to communicate with other people.
Machingauta has claimed that his minor children were assaulted during the abduction.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

In Gokwe, 12 people were arrested for protesting against the government. They were angry about the President being appointed as the head of a group. The protesters want a different leader. One person said they will protest more if their demands are not met. The government also kidnapped an opposition activist. He was held in a cell and his children were hurt. The situation in Zimbabwe is very tense.

Twelve Arrested in Gokwe For Alleged Anti-Government Protest

Kariba Member of Parliament John Houghton and 13 other individuals were arrested in Kariba town for staging a peaceful demonstration against the continued incarceration of CCC faction leader Jameson Timba and 77 other party activists.
The former Member of Parliament for the Pelandaba-Tshabalala constituency, Gift Ostallos Siziba, confirmed the arrest of the group. Said Siziba:
<blockquote>
13 activists including Honourable John Houghton, former Mayor George Masendu, Farai Mageva and others have been arrested for peacefully protesting with placards demanding the release of Honourable Timba and others.
They are currently detained at Kariba Police Headquarters. This is Zimbabwe under Mnangagwa. The constitution has been suspended! The fight is on. Homeland or death!
</blockquote>
The arrest of the CCC activists in Kariba on Wednesday comes as the government has intensified its crackdown against dissent, which appears to be an attempt to prevent any potential protests that could disrupt the upcoming 44th SADC Summit scheduled to be held in Harare on August 17.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights said:
<blockquote>
14 Kariba residents, who are detained at Kariba Police Station, have been charged with contravening section 37 of Criminal Code by ZRP and they are accused of participating in a gathering with intent to cause public violence.
ZRP officers allege that the 14 participated in an unsanctioned protest holding some placards inscribed with messages demanding the release of CCC political party leader Jameson Timba and other Harare residents, who were arrested and detained in June.
</blockquote>
Timba and the CCC activists were arrested on 16 June 2024 while commemorating the Day of the African Child in Harare.
They face charges of participating in a gathering with the intent to promote public violence, breaches of peace or bigotry, and disorderly conduct.
The High Court upheld the decision on July 17, leaving the detainees languishing in prolonged pretrial detention at Harare’s Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison.
A magistrate court on June 27 denied them bail on the grounds that the detainees were likely to commit similar offences if released.
Last week, police raided and disrupted a ZINASU meeting which had been attended by over 60 students at the ZESA Training Centre in Belvedere, Harare.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Kariba MP John Houghton and 13 others got arrested for peacefully protesting to free CCC leader Jameson Timba and other activists. They are accused of causing public violence. The government is cracking down on dissent to avoid disruption of the upcoming SADC Summit. Timba and activists were arrested in June for promoting violence and disorderly conduct. The High Court upheld their detention, leaving them in jail. Last week, police also interrupted a student meeting in Harare. People are speaking up for their rights and facing consequences.

Kariba MP, 13 Others Arrested For Protesting Detention Of Timba And Other CCC Activists

Human Rights Watch has demanded the release of over 70 opposition activists, most of them young people, who have been held since June 16, 2024.
Idriss Ali Nassah, senior Africa researcher at Human Rights Watch has accused Zimbabwe’s criminal justice system of repeatedly violating the rights of opposition members. Said Nassah:
<blockquote>
Zimbabwe’s criminal justice system has time and again violated the rights of people aligned with the opposition.
Pretrial detention should be no longer than necessary, and no one should be unjustly detained for long and arbitrary periods.
The prolonged pretrial detention of political activists is just the latest example of the failure of President Mnangagwa’s government to promote, protect and respect basic human rights.
Concerned governments should be pressing the administration of President Mnangagwa to uphold the rule of law.
</blockquote>
The opposition activists were arrested in Avondale, Harare, at the home of CCC interim leader Jameson Timba, while commemorating the Day of the African Child.
Those arrested face charges of participating in a gathering with the intent to promote public violence, breaches of peace or bigotry, and disorderly conduct. 
The High Court upheld the decision on July 17, leaving the detainees languishing in prolonged pretrial detention at Harare’s Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison.
A magistrate court on June 27 denied them bail on the grounds that the detainees were likely to commit similar offences if released.
Lawyers for the detainees say since their arrest, the activists have been beaten and tortured and denied the rights to humane treatment, bail, medical care, and other basic rights.
Agency Gumbo, one of the detainees’ lawyers said that some of the detainees had suffered severe injuries from police beatings, and doctors had recommended that the injured be admitted to the hospital, but the courts refused to release them.
Among those detained is Maureen Dinha and her 1-year-old child, as well as Nicole Chabata, a teenager who is supposed to take final secondary school examinations in October.
Also in jail is Tambudzai Makororo, whose leg was fractured during the June 16 arrest. Makororo’s child died while she was in custody, but the authorities refused her permission to attend the funeral or to bury her son.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Human Rights Watch wants more than 70 opposition activists in Zimbabwe to be set free. They were arrested on June 16, 2024. The activists were detained at a prison in Harare. The activists were arrested while they were attending an event at a leader's house. They are accused of causing trouble in public. The court denied them bail. The activists say they were beaten and tortured in prison. Some of them were seriously hurt. One activist's child even died in custody, but she was not allowed to go to the funeral. Human Rights Watch wants other countries to pressure the Zimbabwean government to release these activists.

Human Rights Watch Demands The Release Of Over 70 Detained Opposition Activists In Zimbabwe

Heal Zimbabwe Trust (HZT), a local human rights organisation has condemned the denial of bail for over 70 members and supporters of the Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) political party by the High Court in Harare on Wednesday.
Former Member of Parliament Jameson Timba, who took over as CCC interim leader after Nelson Chamisa quit in January, was arrested along with other party youth in Harare for holding an unauthorised gathering.
On Wednesday, 17 July, High Court Judge Justice Munamato Mutevedzi dismissed an appeal filed by the 74 CCC activists against the denial of bail by Magistrate Ruth Moyo.
In total, 78 people were arrested at Timba’s House on 16 June but Timba’s son, Ndapuwa Shaun Timba, was granted US$100 bail.
Two of the accused were below the age of 18 years and were therefore released into the custody of their guardians, while another accused individual showed signs of potential mental health challenges.
In accordance with Section 26 of the Mental Health Act, the court ordered this person to remain in custody pending an examination by two doctors to assess their mental capacity.
In a statement, HZT called for the immediate release of the CCC activists, saying their detention has the signs of political persecution and we call for their release. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
We note with concern the dismissal of the bail appeal for the 78 Citizen Coalition for Change supporters by the High Court in Harare today.
The 78 were arrested last month while commemorating the Day of the African Child in Avondale at former Senator Jameson Timba’s home.
</blockquote>
The right to bail is a fundamental right protected by Section 50(6) of the Constitution in our Bill of Rights and the continued denial of this fundamental right must be condemned by all well-meaning Zimbabweans.
<blockquote>
The United Nations General Assembly through its body of Principles for the Protection of All Persons under Any Form of Detention or Imprisonment (Resolution A/RES/43/173 of 9 December 1988), succinctly stated in Principle 38 that “a person detained on a criminal charge shall be entitled to trial within a reasonable time or to release pending trial”.
The expectation is that the right to liberty and security, a freedom protected by a host of international human rights instruments including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights is respected as the norm.
Our judiciary must be the refuge for all citizens whose rights are violated and not be seen as partaking in the suppression of the fundamental freedoms of ordinary citizens.
The case of 78 incarcerated opposition supporters has all the signs of political persecution and we call for their release.
We beseech all Zimbabweans to join and amplify the call for their release.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Heal Zimbabwe Trust, a human rights group, is upset because the High Court in Harare refused to give bail to 74 CCC activists. A former MP, Jameson Timba, and others were arrested for having a meeting without permission. The High Court denied their appeal for bail. Out of the 78 people arrested, one was granted bail and two were released because they were under 18. Another person is being held for a mental health check. The HZT is calling for the immediate release of the activists, saying their detention seems like political persecution. The group believes everyone has the right to bail and a fair trial. They want other Zimbabweans to join them in demanding the activists' release.

Rights Group Criticises High Court's Refusal To Grant Bail To 74 CCC Activists

The Masvingo High Court has overturned the convictions of five opposition activists from Gutu West, Ward 6 who had been convicted and sentenced by the Gutu Magistrate’s Court on charges of public violence.
The five CCC supporters are Privilege Goremusandu, Tapiwa Chiro, Patrick Chimbare, Brian Sithole, and Takudzwa Mashiri.
According to <a href="https://x.com/ChangeRadioZW/status/1813593112343716155">Change Radio</a>, their lawyer, Martin Mureri, who is also the Member of Parliament for Masvingo Urban, successfully appealed the convictions and sentences before Justices Garainesu Mawadze and Sunsley Zisengwe.
The two Justices declared that the convictions and sentences of the five CCC supporters were erroneous and subsequently ordered their release.
The five were initially convicted on February 27, 2024, following their arrest in the aftermath of clashes between ZANU PF members and supporters of former CCC leader Nelson Chamisa at an opposition campaign rally at Chiriga Business Centre in Gutu West.
ZANU PF members allegedly disrupted the police-approved rally, and law enforcement blocked all routes leading to the rally venue, preventing Chamisa from addressing the citizens.
Mureri who took over the case after the initial lawyer Mutema from the NGO Forum failed to appear in court on the judgment day.
The five were initially charged with public violence under Section 36(1) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, Chapter 09:23.
The CCC supporters were each sentenced to 12-month prison terms, with 3 months of the sentence suspended for 5 years.
Before their release on bail following an appeal by Mureri, the individuals spent three weeks incarcerated in Gutu, Mutimurefu, and Remand prisons.
The CCC supporters were allegedly physically assaulted and injured by ZANU PF members led by Robson Gahadzika.
However, the police have yet to arrest Gahadzika or any other ZANU PF members believed to be involved in the attack
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The High Court in Masvingo overturned convictions of five opposition activists from Gutu West who were charged with public violence. The activists are supporters of the opposition party CCC. The convictions were declared erroneous and the activists were released. They were arrested after clashes between ZANU PF and CCC supporters at a rally. The activists spent three weeks in prison before being released on bail. The lawyer representing them successfully appealed their convictions. ZANU PF members allegedly disrupted the rally and assaulted the activists. The police have not yet arrested those involved in the attack.

High Court Overturns Convictions Of Pro-Chamisa Supporters From Gutu West

Amnesty International has urged Zimbabwean authorities to immediately and unconditionally release over 70 opposition members which it said were detained solely for the peaceful exercise of their human rights.
The detained individuals are members of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party, and they were arrested on June 16, 2024, while gathered at the home of the party’s interim leader, Jameson Timba.
Both the Magistrates Court and the High Court have denied them bail since their arrest.
Khanyo Farise, Amnesty International’s Deputy Regional Director for East and Southern Africa <a href="https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2024/07/zimbabwe-authorities-must-immediately-release-detained-opposition-members/">said</a>:
<blockquote>
Zimbabwean authorities must immediately and unconditionally release the CCC opposition party members and drop all the charges against them. Their arbitrary, month-long detention is an outrage which must end now.
This lengthy, baseless detention plainly violates Zimbabwe’s Constitution and its international human rights obligations.
Authorities must end the crackdown on civic space and ensure everyone can freely speak and gather peacefully without fear of arrest or torture and other ill-treatment.
</blockquote>
On Wednesday, High Court Judge Justice Munamato Mutevedzi dismissed an appeal filed by the CCC activists against the denial of bail by Magistrate Ruth Moyo.
The judge upheld the magistrate’s decision, resulting in the continued detention of the 74 CCC activists.
However, one accused individual, Maxwell Sande, who is below the age of 18 years, was released into the custody of his father, Cecil Sande.
The CCC activists are charged with holding an unlawful gathering to plan anti-government protests.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Amnesty wants Zimbabwe to set free opposition members arrested for their rights. Over 70 CCC members were arrested in June 2024 at the party leader's home and have been denied bail. Amnesty says their long detention is wrong. Recently, a judge upheld their detention except for one under 18. The activists are accused of planning protests. Amnesty wants the crackdown to stop so people can speak and gather freely without fear. They want all charges dropped and the activists freed now.

Amnesty International Calls For "Unconditional" Release Of Detained CCC Activists

High Court Judge Justice Munamato Mutevedzi has dismissed an appeal filed by 74 opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) activists, including former Member of Parliament Jameson Timba, against the denial of bail by Magistrate Ruth Moyo.
The judge upheld the magistrate’s decision, resulting in the continued detention of the 74 CCC activists.
However, one accused individual, Maxwell Sande, who is below the age of 18 years, was released into the custody of his father, Cecil Sande.
The CCC activists have been in detention since 16 June 2024 when they were arrested at Timba’s house in Avondale, Harare, and charged with holding an unlawful gathering to plan anti-government protests.
In his ruling delivered virtually, Justice Munamato Mutevedzi said:
<blockquote>
In the end, all having been said and done, my conclusion is that there was no misdirection in the court a quo overall assessment of the issues and its finding that the appellants were not proper candidates for admission to bail. 
As stated earlier the only appellant for whom the appeal can succeed is Maxwell Sande because of his age. 
That I may have determined the matter differently is a non-issue. What is material is that I didn’t find any misdirection in the decision of the magistrates court.
The discretion of the trial magistrate, which as demonstrated, she exercised quite judiciously must stand. It disbars me from interfering with her judgment…
The appeal against the refusal to admit appellants one (1)- forty-two (42) and forty-four (44) to seventy-five (75) to bail by the Magistrates’ Court sitting at Harare on 27 June 2024 be and is hereby dismissed in its entirety.
This is an appeal against the decision of the Magistrates’ Court sitting at Harare refusing all the seventy- four (74) appellants admission to bail. The decision was delivered on 27 June 2024.
The demographics of the appellants are interesting. They were not a random assembly. Instead, they hail from different but clearly defined clusters predominantly the suburbs of Chitungwiza, Epworth and Hatcliffe which account for almost three-quarters of the appellants.
Equally noteworthy is the fact that fifty-seven of the appellants are not formally employed and that over sixty of them are aged below forty years.
They are of the same political persuasion having all admitted their affiliation to a political outfit called the CCC.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights said it will “continue to explore legal options to assert the right to liberty” of the detained opposition activists.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

In simple words, the High Court has said no to letting 74 people out of jail, including a man named Jameson Timba. They were arrested for planning protests against the government. Only one person under 18 was released to his father. The judge agreed with the decision to keep the others in jail. Most of the people arrested are young, unemployed, and support a group called the CCC. The lawyers are still trying to help them. The group comes from different places in Zimbabwe like Chitungwiza, Epworth, and Hatcliffe.

High Court Dismisses Jameson Timba, 73 CCC Activists' Bail Appeal

High Court judge Justice Munamato Mutevedzi on Tuesday, 16 March reserved his ruling on a bail appeal by jailed former senator Jameson Timba and 76 Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) supporters arrested on June 16 while commemorating the Day of the African Child.
Justice Mutevedzi said the judgement would be ready by Thursday after hearing arguments by defence lawyers and state prosecutors, reported <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/high-court-reserves-judgement-in-bail-appeal-by-77-ccc-activists/">ZimLive</a>.
The judge ordered the release of one of the accused persons, a 17-year-old minor after lawyers submitted his birth certificate to confirm his age.
In their application, the lawyers for the CCC activists argued that Magistrate Ruth Moyo erred in treating all the suspects as one person when they had different circumstances.
Moyo only admitted Timba’s 18-year-old son, Shaun Timba, to bail after learning that he had visited his father’s Avondale residence, where the activists were arrested.
They are charged with participating in a gathering with the intent to promote violence, breaches of peace or bigotry, as well as disorderly conduct.
The lead lawyer Jeremiah Bamu said the magistrate should not have placed the appellants in one bracket considering that they were arrested separately. He said:
<blockquote>
Accused 1 (Timba) is liable for the offence only because people had gathered at his house. That did not make him part of the gathering and the court aquo should have distinguished his circumstances from those of the other accused.
It is clear that the appellants weren’t arrested at the same place but at two different places and the evidence of the investigating officer was that the police did not ascertain the purpose of the gathering. There is no strong case in particular to the charge they are facing.
</blockquote>
The court also heard that one of the suspects is a tenant at Timba’s house and was not part of the gathering. Argued Bamu:
<blockquote>
The individual role of each appellant ought to have been ascertained. What happened was a dragnet arrest.
</blockquote>
Webster Jiti, another member of the defence team, said their clients have not shown any capacity to interfere or abscond.
Jiti said there was also no evidence that the activists were violent during their arrest. Said Jiti:
<blockquote>
Evidence before the court is rather contrary. The appellants were brutalised to the extent that some were hospitalised.
</blockquote>
Prosecutor Charles Muchemwa said there was no misdirection by the Magistrates Court as argued by defence lawyers. He said:
<blockquote>
The evidence before the court shows that this offence was committed in aggravating circumstances and there is a likelihood of a conviction.
This might induce the appellants to abscond. It is therefore my humble submission that the appeal be dismissed.
</blockquote>
The judge then adjourned the hearing and said the judgement would be handed down virtually.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

High Court judge is deciding whether to let former senator Jameson Timba and 76 CCC activists out of jail. Lawyers defend their clients saying they were arrested separately, not all together. The judge will make a decision soon. Some activists were hurt during the arrest. The prosecutor thinks they should stay in jail because they might run away. The judge will give his decision online.

High Court Reserves Judgement In Bail Appeal By Timba, CCC Activists

The High Court postponed the bail hearing for over 70 opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) activists to 16 July, awaiting the transcript of proceedings from the magistrates court.
According to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200029481/high-court-postpones-ccc-77-bail-hearing">NewsDay</a>, the State cited delays in the release of the transcript, explaining that the chief transcriber was currently occupied with typing the document.
Jameson Timba, the CCC chief administrator, along with 78 others, including his son Shaun, were arrested at his residence in Avondale, Harare, last month.
They are charged with participating in a gathering with the intent to promote violence, breaches of peace or bigotry, as well as disorderly conduct.
The lawyers for the activists told the media that the gathering was a barbecue at the home of Timba, to commemorate June 16, the Day of the African Child.
Harare magistrate Ruth Moyo denied them bail, citing concerns that they posed a security threat and were unsuitable candidates for release.
Prosecutors allege that police received information that the accused were organising an unlawful gathering to participate in an illegal demonstration in Harare.
Reportedly, clashes ensued during the arrests as the accused resisted and fought back, resulting in injuries to two individuals.
One of the detainees lost a child while in custody and was not permitted to attend the funeral.
Tambudzai Makororo, another activist, reportedly sustained a broken leg as a result of the assault by the police and has undergone surgery to repair a fracture in her left leg.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The High Court delayed the bail hearing for over 70 CCC activists until July 16 because they are waiting for the transcript from the magistrates court. Jameson Timba and others were arrested at his house for allegedly promoting violence. The lawyers say it was just a barbecue. The State claims they were planning an illegal demonstration. Some of the activists were injured during the arrests, and one lost a child while in custody. The hearing was postponed because of delays in getting the court transcript.

High Court Postpones Timba, CCC Activists' Bail Hearing

CCC member and former senator Jameson Timba, along with his co-accused, were further remanded in custody when they appeared at the Harare Magistrates Court on Wednesday morning.
Their lawyer, Agency Gumbo, who is also the Member of Parliament for Hatcliffe Constituency (CCC) and Shadow Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, said their bail appeal in the High Court has been set down for Thursday, July 11, at 9 AM before Justice Lucy Mungwari.
Gumbo urged CCC supporters to come to the High Court in solidarity with the jailed party members.
Timba and 77 other CCC activists, most of them young people, were arrested on June 16 when the Zimbabwe Republic Police raided a private home in Avondale, Harare.
They were charged with participating in a gathering with the intent to promote violence, breaches of peace or bigotry, as well as disorderly conduct.
The lawyers for the activists told the media that the gathering was a barbecue at the home of Timba, to commemorate June 16, the Day of the African Child.
The CCC activists were denied bail, with a Harare magistrate ruling that the detainees were likely to commit similar offences if released. The activists were allegedly assaulted and tortured during their arrest and while in custody.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Former senator Jameson Timba and 77 other CCC activists were arrested and charged for attending a barbecue to mark the Day of the African Child. They were denied bail and their lawyer, Agency Gumbo, has set an appeal for July 11. Gumbo is asking CCC supporters to come to the High Court to show support. The activists were allegedly beaten by the police during their arrest and in custody. The High Court will decide if they can be released on bail.

Timba And CCC Activists' High Court Bail Appeal Set For 11 July

Several Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) activists were allegedly arrested and detained in Lower Gweru on Sunday while attending a memorial service of slain party member Mboneni Ncube.
Ncube was fatally struck with a spear by suspected ZANU PF supporters at a CCC rally in Kwekwe in February 2022.
Posting on X, Promise Mkwananzi, the spokesperson of a CCC faction loyal to the party’s former leader Nelson Chamisa, said:
<blockquote>
Hundreds of people attending Mboneni Ncube’s memorial have been arrested and are currently being held in Gweru.
The regime’s panic has reached self-destruct levels. We urge citizens to continue carrying out lawful and peaceful programmes.
</blockquote>
Earlier, on Sunday, Mkwananzi claimed the police were blocking people from attending Ncube’s memorial, and all vehicles, including those not headed to the memorial, were being turned back. He wrote:
<blockquote>
Police are blocking people from attending Mboneni Ncube’s memorial. All vehicles, even those not necessarily headed to the memorial are being turned back and denied to pass through going about their business, including routine commuter omnibuses ferrying commuters between Gweru and Lower Gweru.
A systematic program to deny and block lawful meetings and gatherings of those suspected to be opposition supporters and sympathisers is emerging.
These bans and arrests are a violation of the country’s supreme law the constitution as most of the banned activities are private activities taking place within private spaces.
</blockquote>
On Saturday, five members of the National Democratic Working Group (NDWG), a political group led by former Zengeza West MP, Job Sikhala, were arrested in Kuwadzana, Harare.
The NDWG said its arrested members were distributing monthly food handouts to less privileged Kuwadzana residents.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Several CCC Supporters Arrested At Murdered Activist's Memorial Service, Opposition Party Says

Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) politician and former senator, Jameson Timba, and 75 other party activists were on Thursday, June 27, denied bail by the Harare Magistrates Court.
The CCC activists are facing charges of participating in a gathering with the intent to promote violence, breaches of peace or bigotry as well as disorderly conduct.
Allegations are that on 16 June 2024, at around 2 PM, police received information that an unsanctioned gathering was underway at a house in Strathaven, Harare to take part in an unlawful demonstration.
Police officers proceeded to the residence to investigate and on arrival, they enquired about the purpose of the gathering.
The accused persons allegedly became hostile and riotous and threw stones at the police and their vehicle, forcing them to call for reinforcements.
It is alleged that two police officers were injured during the melee and the police vehicle was also damaged. 
The accused persons were only arrested after the police resorted to tear smoke.
The CCC activists were remanded in custody to 10 July 2024.
Last week, the court granted US$100 bail to one of the accused individuals, Ndapuwa Shaun Timba, who is Timba’s son.
One of the accused persons was a 17-year-old minor, who the court remanded into the custody of their guardian.
Another accused individual showed signs of potential mental health challenges. In accordance with Section 26 of the Mental Health Act, the court ordered this person to remain in custody pending an examination by two doctors to assess their mental capacity.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Jameson Timba, 75 CCC Activists Denied Bail

The opposition United Zimbabwe Alliance (UZA) party has condemned the arrest of scores of CCC activists on Sunday on allegations of participating in a gathering with the intent to promote violence, breaches of peace or bigotry as well as disorderly conduct.
The CCC activists were arrested at the house of the party’s former senator Jameson Timba in Strathaven in Harare.
In a statement, UZA, which is led by Elisabeth Valerio, condemned the arrests, saying the police were heavy-handed in targeting a peaceful meeting. The party said:
<blockquote>
The authorities described the gathering as unsanctioned, an accusation frequently used to suppress political dissent in Zimbabwe.
Police intervention reportedly turned violent and it was claimed the youths were provoked, leading to clashes. 
Such incidents clearly reveal the oppressive tactics employed to stifle opposition voices and the blatant disregard for constitutional rights.
Sections 58 and 59 of the Zimbabwean Constitution explicitly protect freedom of assembly and association, as well as the right to demonstrate and petition, but these rights were flagrantly violated during the arrests.
This event is not an isolated incident, but part of a broader pattern of intimidation and political repression plaguing Zimbabwe.
The systematic targeting of opposition gatherings underscores the urgent need for reform and the protection of fundamental human rights.
</blockquote>
Of the 79 individuals apprehended in the police operation at former CCC senator Jameson Timba’s residence, 76 remain in remand custody, with the Harare Magistrates’ Court scheduled to issue its ruling on their bail application on Tuesday, June 25.
Timba’s son, Ndapuwa Shaun Timba, was granted US$100 bail while the other accused person was a 17-year-old minor, who the court remanded into the custody of their guardian.
The third accused person showed signs of potential mental health challenges. In accordance with Section 26 of the Mental Health Act, the court ordered this person to remain in custody pending an examination by two doctors to assess their mental capacity.
The state is opposed to bail in respect of the remaining 76, who were all remanded in custody to Tuesday next week.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Valerio Condemns "Unjust" Arrest Of CCC Members

The Harare Magistrates’ Court on Friday, June 21, 2024, postponed its ruling until Tuesday, June 25, 2024, on the bail application by seventy-six (76) Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) activists, including former party senator Jameson Timba, who will remain in remand prison over the weekend as a result.
The 76 activists were among 79 people arrested on Sunday, 16 June, at Timba’s house in Harare while commemorating the Day of the African Child.
The 79 are facing charges of participating in a gathering with the intent to promote violence, breaches of peace or bigotry as well as disorderly conduct.
The court granted US$100 bail to one of the accused individuals, Ndapuwa Shaun Timba, who is the son of former CCC senator Jameson Timba.
One of the accused persons was a 17-year-old minor, who the court remanded into the custody of their guardian.
Another accused individual showed signs of potential mental health challenges. In accordance with Section 26 of the Mental Health Act, the court ordered this person to remain in custody pending an examination by two doctors to assess their mental capacity.
The state is opposed to bail in respect of the remaining 76, who were all remanded in custody to Tuesday next week.
The state is alleging that the accused persons took part in an unsanctioned gathering on the 16th of June 2024, at around 2 PM at a house in Strathaven in Harare.
Prosecutors alleged the gathering was for an unlawful demonstration.
Police officers proceeded to the residence to investigate and on arrival, they enquired about the purpose of the gathering.
The accused persons allegedly became hostile and riotous and threw stones at the police and their vehicle, forcing them to call for reinforcements.
It is alleged that two police officers were injured during the melee and the police vehicle was also damaged. The accused persons were only arrested after the police resorted to tear smoke.
The group is being represented by lawyers Agency Gumbo, Lazurus Mbereko, Jeremiah Bamu and Webster Jiti.
The CCC members were allegedly tortured while in police custody, with a majority of them having visible scars.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Court Postpones Bail Ruling On Jameson Timba, 75 CCC Activists Arrested On June 16

Amnesty International’s Deputy Regional Director for Southern Africa Khanyo Farisè has called for the release of more than 70 members of the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party following a mass arrest on 16 June 2024.
The 78 CCC members, including interim party leader Jameson Timba, were arrested at Timba’s house where they were commemorating the International Day of the African Child. Said Farisè:
<blockquote>
The arrest and continued arbitrary detention of 77 opposition members who had peacefully gathered at a private residence is part of a disturbing pattern of repression against people exercising their rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and expression.
Zimbabwean authorities must immediately and unconditionally release these opposition members and drop all charges against them.
Authorities must also uphold Zimbabwe’s constitutional and international human rights obligations including the rights to peaceful assembly, liberty and freedom from torture and other ill-treatment.
Authorities must promptly, thoroughly, impartially, independently, transparently and effectively investigate allegations that some of those arrested were tortured while in police custody and bring to justice those suspected to be responsible. Authorities must also ensure those affected receive urgent medical attention.
</blockquote>
One of the individuals arrested was a nursing mother, and another was a 17-year-old minor who has since been released to the custody of his parent.
The group were held in custody for more than 48 hours without appearing before a competent court, which violates the law.
On 17 June, police charged the detainees with “gathering with intent to promote public violence and disorderly conduct.”
77 CCC activists remain in remand and their bail application will continue this Thursday, June 20.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Amnesty International Demand Immediate Release Of Detained 77 CCC Activists

Jameson Timba, the Chief Administrators of a faction of the opposition Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC) party and 78 others were arraigned before the Harare Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, June 18, facing charges of participating in a gathering with the intent to promote violence, breaches of peace or bigotry and disorderly conduct.
Allegations are that on 16 June 2024, at around 2 PM, police received information to the effect that an unsanctioned gathering was underway at house number 6 Downie Road Strathaven, Avondale West, Harare.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the unsanctioned gathering was for an unlawful demonstration.
Police officers proceeded to the residence to investigate and on arrival, they enquired about the purpose of the gathering.
The accused persons allegedly became hostile and riotous and threw stones at the police and their vehicle.
Prosecutors say the police officers had to call for reinforcements. Two police officers were injured and the police vehicle was also damaged.
The accused persons, who included a minor aged 17 years, were only arrested after the police resorted to tear smoke.
The teenager was remanded into the custody of his guardian. Another accused person who showed signs of being mentally challenged was dealt with in terms of section 26 of the Mental Health Act and will be in custody pending an examination by two doctors.
The accused persons challenged their initial remand on the basis that they had been over-detained by the police.
The State opposed the application and the ruling is set for this Wednesday, 19 July, at 11:15 AM.
<figure class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 1024px"><img alt="Image" decoding="async" height="682" loading="lazy" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GQXGpkQXwAIkUtu?format=jpg&amp;name=medium" width="1024"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Image Credit: Aaron Ufumeli</figcaption></figure>
In a statement, CCC said Timba and the other party activists are being persecuted for representing the authentic opposition in Zimbabwe. The party added:
<blockquote>
Anyone who represents the authentic opposition in Zimbabwe is subjected to torture, abuse, harassment, and persecution, while those who align with the regime are treated favourably.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Jameson Timba, 78 Others Appear In Court Over Illegal Gathering, Disorderly Conduct

Harare magistrate Apollonia Marutya has dismissed an application by former Glenview South Member of Parliament Learnmore Hakata for refusal of further remand for holding an unsanctioned road show, reported <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200023410/former-mp-39-others-further-remanded">NewsDay</a>.
Hakata, who is charged alongside 39 others, is being represented by Kudzai Kadzere from the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR). Kadzere submitted:
<blockquote>
We apply that the accused person be removed from remand. They have been attending court since last year with the State failing to come up with a trial date.
</blockquote>
Kadzere appealed to the court to proceed by way of summons when it finally gets ready for trial.
The National Prosecuting Authority’s (NPA) Thomas Chanakira opposed the application saying the docket was ready and assigned to a different prosecutor Zebediah Bofu.
Hakata and the other CCC members were arrested in August last year while holding an electoral campaign roadshow at Machipisa Shopping Centre, Highfield, Harare.
It is alleged that the CCC had notified authorities about a campaign rally at Churu Farm, but the accused later diverted from the planned location resulting in their arrest.
Prosecutors allege the suspects breached maintenance of peace regulations.
Hakata and the CCC members did not participate in the August 2023 elections because they were in custody.
The matter was postponed to 27 February for a possible trial date.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

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