Ex-MP denied bail

Herald Reporter
Jailed former MDC-T Buhera South legislator Tangwara Matimba, who was convicted of theft of trust property after he sold a house on behalf of a foreign-based couple and pocketed US$95 000, was yesterday denied bail at the High Court. Matimba is serving a two-year jail term after he was convicted by Harare regional magistrate Mr Hosea Mujaya and was ordered to pay restitution.

Justice David Mangota dismissed Matimba’s bid for freedom on the basis that there were no prospects of success in the politician’s appeal against conviction and sentence.

Advocate Eric Matinenga represented Matimba while law officer Mrs Sharon Fero appeared for the State.
Matimba (46), who owns Property Hopes Real Estate, was convicted by  Mr Mujaya after a fully contested trial.

Mr Mujaya sentenced Matimba to seven years in prison before setting aside two years on condition of good behaviour.
Another three years were suspended on condition Matimba pays restitution.

In passing the sentence, Mr Mujaya said Matimba’s moral blameworthiness was high considering that he is a former Member of Parliament.
He said the businessman and politician committed the offence out of greed. Matimba sold Liberty Madzingira’s house to Brian Mafirambudzi for US$95 000 and spent the money. In his bail application, Matimba argued that he had high prospects of success on appeal.