By Ziyah News Court Reporter
Harare Magistrate Collet Ncube has once again denied bail to former Minister Jameson Timba and 64 other activists from the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), who were allegedly arrested in June for participating in an unlawful gathering.
This decision marks the third denial of bail for the group, extending their detention to a total of 99 days.
During the latest court hearing, the judge dismissed the defense’s argument for bail, stating that the “changed circumstances” presented were insufficient to warrant a reconsideration.
Magistrate Ncube raised concerns about the potential for the accused to commit similar offenses if released, indicating that they should remain in custody until their trial is finalized.
The defense team, led by prominent lawyer Webster Jiti, contended that the completion of testimonies from state witnesses reduced the risk of interference with the prosecution’s case. Nonetheless, the magistrate was not convinced by this argument.
Originally, 79 individuals were arrested in connection with the incident, with 12 already acquitted.
While two individuals, including Timba’s son and 18-year-old Form Four student Nicole Chabata, have been granted bail, the remaining detainees’ statuses remain uncertain.
Among those still in custody is a woman with a one-year-old baby, along with Tambudzai Makororo, who is struggling with a leg injury sustained during the arrest.
Following the latest bail denial, lawyer Webster Jiti announced plans to appeal the ruling at the High Court.
CCC spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere strongly criticized the court’s decision, asserting that
“Bail is a constitutional entitlement. Every progressive citizen must condemn this abuse of the legal system and the torture and illegal detention of persons who are innocent.”
The plight of the CCC activists continues to attract significant attention, with increasing calls for their release amid growing concerns about the implications of their extended detention.