By Rex Mphisa
A Beitbridge rape convict on Tuesday broke into tears and appealed for advanced deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) evidence alleging he was wrongfully convicted.
“I am serving a term for a crime I did not commit. If there was DNA evidence this would have helped me because I never raped that minor. The courts must have such evidence because I am suffering for something I never did,” said George Chikudo.
He was convicted of rape and on a mandatory 15 year jail term.
Holding his bail pending appeal application form Chikudo sobbed as he told Matabeleland South Minister of Provincial Affairs and Devolution Albert Nguluvhe who visited Beitbridge Prison Tuesday.
“I appeal to you that DNA evidence is used for during such trials. I never even did anything to the minor,” he said tears welling in his eyes.
Another inmate called Bigboy Chauke complained about abusive prison officers some allegedly coming to the cells drunk and beating up inmates for uncut hair, among other petty offences.
“If we can be given haircutting machines because some prison officers come drunk to our cells and are abusive,” he said mentioning at least four officers by name.
Another inmate complained about poor medical facilities and bad treatment while they were admitted in hospital.
On he positive side a radio technician offered to share skills with inmates and said if tools of his trade were provided.
“It will help when we go out so that we stay away from crime. I am a technician and I can train others if we are provided with tools,” said the unidentified technician.
Nguluvhe promised to help source equipment while he would approach Justice legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi as regards the other matters raised by the inmates.
An inmate Edmore Muleya gifted Nguluvhe with hand-made wares including traditional brooms, a hat and a floor mat.
“Put this next to your bed and wipe your feet before getting into your bed,” said Muleya who during reception of the minister recited the raditional toterm ways of Nguluvhes much to the joy of the visiting minister.