adminFaith Mabuto Midlands Reporter
ZANU-PF Kwekwe Central MP Masango Matambanadzo will have to wait longer to know his fate following the postponement of judgment in his assault case to August 28.
Matambanadzo, who resides in Kwekwe, allegedly assaulted a fellow party member Sabikwa Msipha together with his aid Burden Mawire, 27, in a matter linked to leadership squabbles in the Midlands city.
Matambanadzo, popularly known as Blackman and Mawire, briefly appeared before Provincial Magistrate Musaiwona Shotgame for judgment, but were told to come back on August 28.
No reasons were given.
“You come back to court on August 28 for judgment,” said magistrate Shotgame.
Through their lawyer Liberty Mashanyare of Masawi and Partners, the duo had pleaded not guilty.
“Your worship, my clients didn’t commit the offence. The first accused (Matambanadzo) is the one who actually restrained the second accused (Mawire) from fighting with Sabikwa Msipha who is the complainant. He didn’t argue or fight with Msipha,” said Mashanyare.
“My second client only acted in self-defence as Msipha was the one who attacked him first. Your worship, Msipha even tried to assault my second client at the police station but they were stopped by police officers.”
Prosecuting, Calvin Guvheya told the court that on August 11 last year at around 3PM, Msipha went to Amaveni Shopping Centre in Kwekwe intending to attend a Heroes Day function at Amaveni Community Hall.
“On his way to the Heroes Day function, Msipha passed through Bloodspot building owned by Matambanadzo who was in his office with Mawire. While in the office, Matambanadzo started accusing Msipha of working for his political downfall,” said Guvheya.
He said before Msipha responded, Mawire started assaulting him. Guvheya said Msipha retaliated and attacked Mawire. The court heard that on the same day, Msipha reported the matter at Amaveni Police Station leading to Matambanadzo and Mawire’s arrest. Mawire and Msipha later sought medical help.
Online Reporter