State witnesses say Walter Mzembi lacked power over assets

State witnesses framed Walter Mzembi as powerless over assets, while defense testimony painted the TV donations as approved, audited, and routine.

Trial basics and players

• Walter Mzembi faces abuse of office and trust property charges.
• The case runs before Justice Benjamin Chikowero.
• Killian Mandiki represents Mzembi in court.
• Prosecutor Lovemore Murevanhema leads the State case.

What the State witness argued

• Zvinechimwe Ruvinga Churu testified as the first State witness.
• Churu works in the Office of the President and Cabinet.
• He said ministers lack authority over asset disposal.
• Permanent secretaries handle government property controls.

Core allegations around the TVs

• Four LED screens allegedly went to churches.
• The churches named were UFIC, PHD Ministries, and Zion Christian Church.
• Treasury or Cabinet approval is disputed.
• The equipment value was pegged at US$200,000.

Funding and original purpose

• Treasury released US$2 million to the Tourism Ministry.
• The funds were tied to fan parks.
• The plan promoted tourism during the 2010 World Cup.
• South Africa hosted that tournament.

Defense-friendly testimony

• Thokozile Alice Rosemary Chitepo addressed procurement legality.
• She said Treasury cleared the screen purchases.
• Screens went to provinces, churches, and public institutions.
• She admitted uncertainty about letters signed by Mzembi.

More backing for the defense

• Florence Nhekairo referenced a clean 2016 asset audit.
• Rockford Nyamakura said distribution followed official channels.
• He said screens were loaned, not dumped.
• Asset responsibility sat with permanent secretaries.