Former CCC politicians caught a break in court today. Harare magistrate Sharon Rakafa handed Amos Chibaya and Costa Machingauta US$500 fines instead of jail time after they were found guilty of joining an illegal gathering in 2023. Three other party activists—Monica Mukwanda, Aletta Viremai, and Lancelot Tungwarara—received the same penalty. They must pay up or face six months behind bars. The court also gave them suspended 12-month sentences that won't be served if they behave themselves.
The magistrate went easy because they had clean records before this case. She noted they all support families and help their communities. Twenty other suspects walked free after the court decided they were just caught in a sweep. The convicted five were nabbed at Machingauta's home in Budiriro wearing party gear during what prosecutors called a political assembly. They chanted slogans supporting Chamisa when police showed up following a tip-off. Law enforcement claimed the gathering disturbed public peace. Officers told everyone to leave, but the group refused, leading to arrests. The case dates back to January 2023, when the opposition party was still active.
The magistrate went easy because they had clean records before this case. She noted they all support families and help their communities. Twenty other suspects walked free after the court decided they were just caught in a sweep. The convicted five were nabbed at Machingauta's home in Budiriro wearing party gear during what prosecutors called a political assembly. They chanted slogans supporting Chamisa when police showed up following a tip-off. Law enforcement claimed the gathering disturbed public peace. Officers told everyone to leave, but the group refused, leading to arrests. The case dates back to January 2023, when the opposition party was still active.
