Zanu PF MP Tsungai Makumbe Acquitted of Rape Charges

Mazowe North MP Tsungai Makumbe has been acquitted of rape charges by Harare magistrate Clever Tsikwa, who found insufficient evidence and inconsistencies in the complainant’s testimony. The alleged incident occurred in November 2022, with claims including pregnancy and a chronic illness resulting from the act, which was not reported immediately.

Tsungai Makumbe, the Member of Parliament for Mazowe North from the Zanu PF party, has been acquitted of charges regarding the alleged rape of his ex-wife at gunpoint. The ruling was delivered by Harare magistrate Clever Tsikwa, who concluded that the prosecution had not met the burden of proof required for a conviction.

The accusations against Makumbe included claims that the incident, which allegedly occurred in Mt Pleasant in November 2022, resulted in pregnancy and the transmission of a chronic illness. Prosecutors contended that Makumbe approached the complainant at her residence and coerced her into his vehicle.

It was reported that he displayed a firearm and demanded sexual relations from her, subsequently resorting to physical force. The alleged rape was not immediately reported, and it was claimed that Makumbe provided US$20 for the complainant to purchase morning-after pills. Following the incident, she sought medical attention and later disclosed the event to authorities on September 2 of this year.

Judge Tsikwa noted significant inconsistencies in the complainant’s account, indicating a lack of substantiating evidence. Commenting on her testimony, he stated, “The complainant’s version has many inconsistencies and lies. She attempted to paint the accused wrongly.” Attorney John Ndomene defended Makumbe during the trial.

In conclusion, the acquittal of Tsungai Makumbe emphasizes the judicial requirement for concrete evidence in criminal cases. The court’s decision highlighted various inconsistencies in the complainant’s testimony and underscored the challenges faced by the prosecution in proving the charges. The case reveals significant implications for both the accused and the broader discourse on issues of sexual violence and justice in Zimbabwe.

Original Source: www.zimlive.com