HARARE – A court on Monday ordered the National Prosecuting Authority to investigate defence claims that 12 opposition activists were denied access to their lawyers after they were arrested last Saturday and charged with public violence offences over protests that rocked Chitungwiza.
Lawyers Moses Nkomo, Jeremiah Bhamu and Job Sikhala from the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights, joined by Tapiwa Muchinerepi, told Chitungwiza magistrate Vongai Muchuchuti that the 12 had been denied access to legal counsel following their arrest.
The 12 activists who include Movement for Democratic Change youth spokesman Stephen Chuma said they were also not notified of the charge they were facing until almost eight hours after their detention at St Mary’s Police Station.
“This is a serious violation of the law. The state must investigate and bring the findings on the next court remand date without fail,” said Muchuchuti.
The NPA promised to investigate the complaint.
Chuma, 32, is charged alongside Nyasha Mutsindikwa, 23, Elton Tendai Marimbe, 21, Dambudzo Leeroy Mhike, 29, Tendai Timuri, 40, Jabulani Chatindiara, 42, Chris Murecha, 35, Terrence Manjengwa, 25, John Mulevelengi,43, Brian Mushakwe, 26, Tanyaradzwa Zawaire, 26, and Taurai Nyamanhindi, 36.
They are accused of participating in a public gathering with intent to promote public violence.
The prosecution opposed bail on grounds that the group is facing a serious charge and will likely face a custodial sentence if convicted.
Prosecutors also alleged that the 12 clashed with police, and were therefore not good candidates for bail.
The magistrate remanded them in custody.
Eleven of the group were arrested on February 29 when they visited Chuma at St Mary’s Police Station after scores on stone-throwing youths clashed with police during protests over economic hardships.
Prosecutors say the 12 chanted MDC slogans and damaged two vehicles, including a ZUPCO bus.
The state says upon arrest, some of the suspects were searched and found in possession of knives, catapults and stones.
Prosecutors said more than 200 suspects evaded arrest.
