Maldives ‘regime change’ activists seek Constitutional Court referral

HARARE – Seven human rights activists charged over an alleged plot to topple President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government after attending a workshop in the Maldives have asked for a Constitutional Court referral, arguing that their rights were violated when they were arrested.

George Makoni, Tatenda Mombeyarara, Gamuchirai Mukura, Nyasha Mpahlo, Farirayi Gumbonzvanda, Sithabile Dewa and Beauty Rita Nyampinga are all on bail after being charged with subversion.

When they were brought to court for the first time, the activists told of their harrowing experience at the hands of the police.

They told court that they were made to sleep next to a toilet, with no blankets. They also claimed that they were denied access to their lawyers and were not told of their charge upon arrest.

They have also made an application for their passports to be released saying they are not listed as evidence requested for the purpose of their trial.

“When constitutional issues arise, the law requires that if requested by a party the matter should be referred to the Constitutional Court,” Jeremiah Bamu, one of their lawyers, told Harare magistrate Babra Mateko.

“Factual determinations need to be made and they are yet to be concluded. Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services are yet to provide a response to violations brought against them before the court.

“Bail conditions granted do not address the issue of passports, but they are still in possession of the police. We therefore pray for their release.”

Prosecutor Charles Muchemwa told the court that the State will be able to respond during the next remand date.

“We need to make necessary inquiries as to why the passports are still held by the police. We are also going to address other issues raised,” Muchemwa said.

The activists will be back in court on August 1.

Prosecutors say the seven and others went to the Maldives where they allegedly receiving training on how to operate small arms, evade arrest during civil unrest and were taught on counter-intelligence and acts of terrorism during the workshop.