Online Reporter
Fidelis Munyoro
Chief Court Reporter
JAILED business partners Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu, convicted of defrauding the Government of over US$7 million under the Presidential Goat Pass-On Scheme, remain in limbo as they await a Supreme Court decision on their bids for leave to appeal.
With lengthy prison sentences looming large, the former elites are clinging to the possibility of a breakthrough that could alter their fate.
The duo, once respected businessmen, have been burdened by severe punishments handed down by the High Court late last year.
Chimombe (44) faces 17 years in prison, with three years suspended for good behaviour and an additional two years suspended if he repays US$964 064,64 by February 28, 2026.
His co-accused, Mpofu, aged 50, received an even harsher sentence — 22 years, with three years suspended for good behaviour and four years contingent on repaying US$2 060 250,60 within the same timeframe.
They are now at the mercy of a single Supreme Court judge to breathe hope into their plea.
Justice George Chiweshe of the Supreme Court heard their separate applications for leave to appeal early last month and reserved judgment.
Speaking yesterday, Chimombe’s lawyer, Mr Arshiel Mugiya indicated that talk of delays in judgment was just speculation.
“We argued the leave to appeal case last month, and judgment was reserved. As it stands, the judge is still well within the six-month time threshold for handing down rulings, as set by the court’s rules.”
With courts currently on recess, Mr Mugiya pointed out other possible reasons for the wait.
“We must understand that this occurred during the court’s vacation period. Furthermore, the record from the High Court was voluminous, requiring thorough examination by the Judge of Appeal. It’s critical to remain patient, even as we understand the public’s eagerness to see this matter resolved.”
Advocate Tapson Dzvetero, Mpofu’s lawyer, shared similar sentiments.
