Ex-Minister Matonga trial commences

Conrad Mupesa

Mashonaland West Bureau

THE trial of former Information Minister, Bright Matonga, who is being accused of stealing farm implements commenced today at Chegutu Magistrates’ Court.
Matonga appeared before Chegutu Magistrate Ms Evelyn Mashawakure this morning and pleaded not guilty to the charges.
He allegedly stole farming implements valued at US$ 500 000 in 2021.

The trial commenced with three witnesses among them Mr David Van Breda, the complainant testifying.
In his defence, Matonga said he only took the farming implements as security pending payment of the money he was owed by Mr Van Breda.
Matonga and Mr Van Breda entered into a joint venture agreement with him being entitled to six percent of all gross sales generated from crop selling. He argued that he never intended to permanently deprive the complainant of his farming implements.

The two’s joint venture agreement collapsed in October 2021.
The matter was postponed to September 12, 2024 for continuation of trial when the investigating officer will testify.
Mr Tafadzwa Vhore prosecuted.