dyton mupawaenda
Zvikomborero Parafini
THE ruling on the application by controversial cult leader Madzibaba Ishmael for discharge at the close of the State case has been postponed to next Monday.
The State, represented by District Public Prosecutor Tafara Chirambira and Sheila Mupindu, closed its case
The presiding magistrate said she still needed more time to go through the submissions made.
Norton magistrate Christine Nyandoro presided over the case in which Madzibaba Ishmael, and his six accomplices, are facing a number of charges.
The charges include child neglect, illegal burials and failing to register births and deaths.
after leading evidence from 13 witnesses.
Madzibaba Ishmael, as the alleged ringleader, is accused of orchestrating activities that placed 41 children in dire circumstances and flouted burial and registration laws.
Responding to Madzibaba Ishmael’s claims that they failed to establish a case against him, the State argued that it had established a prima facie case.
Investigations led by a police task team uncovered shocking conditions at Madzibaba Ishmael’s farm in Nyabira.
Social Welfare authorities reported finding children working during school hours, none of whom had birth certificates or were registered in local schools.
An inspection in loco revealed gravesites used for burials conducted without burial orders.
Witnesses, including the local village head, testified that funerals were held without adherence to legal requirements.
The State also presented age estimation reports and Social Welfare assessments, along with statements from two of the accused, who claimed their actions were motivated by their faith.
Prosecutors further highlighted a questionable attempt by the defence to introduce a birth certificate obtained during the trial, describing it as a deceptive ploy that was quickly abandoned.
“This attempt to pull wool over the court’s eyes speaks volumes,” the prosecution argued.
The defence maintained that the evidence presented does not substantiate the charges and have called for the case to be dismissed.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter