A judge in Harare will decide whether two men accused of rape can go free. Thabo Blessing Dube and Martin Charlie face charges of attacking socialite Ashley Masendeke. Defense lawyers Shepherd Makonde and George Manokore asked the court to dismiss the case. They claim the prosecution has weak evidence with many contradictions. The lawyers want their clients released without having to defend themselves.
The state's main witness gave confusing testimony during the trial. She first said Masendeke told her about having consensual sex with one man. This story differs from the official complaint that accuses both men of rape. The witness also denied claims that she tried to perform an exorcism on Masendeke after the incident.
The same witness revealed that Masendeke became upset when her husband learned about the matter. She said Masendeke wanted to keep the situation private. Under questioning from defense lawyers, the witness admitted her memory did not match her earlier statements. She could not say which version of events was correct.
Defense attorneys pointed to these problems as proof the case should end. They argued the inconsistent testimony creates reasonable doubt about what really happened. The prosecution presented evidence that conflicts with itself. The witness testimonies do not support the charges against the two accused men.
The magistrate will announce the decision on June 27. The court must choose whether to dismiss the charges or continue with the trial. The defendants will either walk free or present their own defense.
The state's main witness gave confusing testimony during the trial. She first said Masendeke told her about having consensual sex with one man. This story differs from the official complaint that accuses both men of rape. The witness also denied claims that she tried to perform an exorcism on Masendeke after the incident.
The same witness revealed that Masendeke became upset when her husband learned about the matter. She said Masendeke wanted to keep the situation private. Under questioning from defense lawyers, the witness admitted her memory did not match her earlier statements. She could not say which version of events was correct.
Defense attorneys pointed to these problems as proof the case should end. They argued the inconsistent testimony creates reasonable doubt about what really happened. The prosecution presented evidence that conflicts with itself. The witness testimonies do not support the charges against the two accused men.
The magistrate will announce the decision on June 27. The court must choose whether to dismiss the charges or continue with the trial. The defendants will either walk free or present their own defense.
