Online Reporter
Zvikomborero Parafini
Court Reporter
THE trial of Collin Benyure, the registrar of the Medical and Dental Practitioners Council of Zimbabwe, commenced in Harare yesterday.
He is accused of criminal abuse of duty for allegedly siphoning money from the council’s funds to cover personal legal fees.
Benyure pleaded not guilty before Harare Regional Magistrate Ms Feresi Chakanyuka.
The allegations state that on December 17, 2024, the CID Commercial Crimes Division arrested Benyure, who subsequently appeared in Harare Magistrates Court on a charge of perjury in his personal capacity.
The State contends that after his court appearance, Benyure used his position as acting registrar to instruct his subordinate, Filistas Chari, the council’s administrator, to withdraw US$200 from council funds to cover his bail.
Chari reportedly complied, forwarding this directive to the finance office, which handed over the money to Tendai Chinyama for delivery to Benyure at the court. This action allegedly violated the Public Finance Management Act Regulations, as the funds were taken without proper authorisation. The court heard that subsequent council meetings resolved that Benyure should reimburse the US$200 and be responsible for his legal costs.
The State claims the money has yet to be reimbursed, which is inconsistent with his duties as a public officer. In his defence, Benyure argued that he attended court as the Registrar and spokesperson for the Council, asserting that any litigation or charges arising from his role should be financed by the Council.
The trial continues as Benyure defends his actions against the State’s allegations of misconduct.
