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[QUOTE="Munyaradzi Mafaro, post: 70590, member: 636"]
Justice Pisirayi Kwenda rejected two separate attempts by convicted businessmen Moses Mpofu and Mike Chimombe to delay sentencing proceedings following their fraud conviction related to a government goat supply tender valued at over 87 million dollars. The pair first sought postponement until receiving written judgment, then requested Supreme Court appeal authorization, with both applications dismissed by the judge who emphasized that his oral ruling delivered in open court remained legally binding.

Defense attorneys Lovemore Madhuku, Ashiel Mugiya, and Tapson Dzvetero argued that proceeding without a written judgment violated procedural fairness, while state counsel Whisper Mabhaudhi maintained no legal barrier existed and noted both defendants were present during the original verdict.

Prosecutors established that Mpofu and Chimombe secured the tender through Blackdeck Private Limited using falsified documentation, including invalid tax clearances and fraudulent compliance certificates. The agriculture ministry disbursed 1.6 billion Zimbabwe dollars but received only 4,208 goats worth approximately 331,000 dollars against contracted deliveries exceeding 632,000 animals. The defendants contend the charges stem from political motivations and business disputes with former associate Wicknell Chivayo. Pre-sentencing procedures will continue as scheduled.
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