By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Former Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) legislator Amos Chibaya, along with four associates have been fined $500 each for charges related to an unlawful gathering at the Harare Magistrate’s Court.
The ruling was delivered by Magistrate Sharon Rakafa, who underscored the need for first-time offenders to have the opportunity to reform.
In addition to the monetary fines, Chibaya, Costa Machingauta, Monica Mukwanda, Aletta Viremai, and Lancelot Tungwarara received a 12-month imprisonment sentence, which has been wholly suspended on the condition of good behavior.
Magistrate Rakafa noted that all five individuals are active community members and breadwinners, emphasizing their potential for positive contributions to society.
The charges stem from an incident on January 14, 2023, when the group gathered at Machingauta’s home in Budiriro for a CCC presidential assembly. They were reportedly invited through social media and were dressed in party regalia while chanting slogans in support of their leader.
Police intervened after receiving a tip-off about the gathering, claiming that the group’s actions were disturbing the peace. Despite orders to disperse, the participants resisted, leading to their arrest.
A total of 20 individuals were initially rounded up during the incident, but most were acquitted as the magistrate pointed out that many were caught in a dragnet arrest. Justifying her decision, Rakafa stated that the defendants deserved a chance to mend their ways given their status as first-time offenders.