Zim GBC News | Crimes and Courts
HARARE – Former Cabinet Minister Walter Mzembi has been served with indictment papers and is set to stand trial at the High Court on 24 November, following his dramatic arrest upon returning to the country.
Mzembi, who previously served as Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Tourism, faces serious charges of criminal abuse of office and theft of public property. The allegations stem from his tenure in the Tourism Ministry, where he is accused of diverting assets meant for a national project.
The heart of the case involves television screens valued at US$2 million, procured for public fan parks to broadcast the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Prosecutors allege the equipment, intended for public viewing, was instead converted for personal use.
The case took a new turn with Mzembi’s recent return to Zimbabwe. According to officials from the National Prosecuting Authority, he was apprehended by law enforcement agents upon his arrival at a port of entry.
A legal representative for the state confirmed the development, stating,
“The accused was arrested upon his entry into the country. He has been processed and is now formally indicted to stand trial. The state is prepared to present a strong case regarding the alleged diversion of public assets.”
In addition to the primary corruption charges, Mzembi faces separate counts for violating his bail conditions. The State alleges he previously failed to surrender his passport by the 19 November 2018 deadline and subsequently skipped a court appearance scheduled for 18 January 2019.
A source within the prosecutor’s office added,
“The failure to comply with prior court orders is a serious matter that compounds the existing charges. The law must take its course without fear or favour.”
The upcoming High Court trial will bring the long-running case, which has attracted significant public interest, to a critical juncture.
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