adminFaith Mabuto Midlands Reporter
THE assault trial of Zanu-PF Kwekwe Central MP, Cde Masango Matambanadzo, opened yesterday at the Gweru Magistrates’ Court. Cde Matambanadzo who is popularly known as Blackman and resides in Kwekwe appeared before Provincial Magistrate Musaiwona Shotgame together with his aide Burden Mawire, 27, facing one count of assault.
The pair allegedly assaulted a fellow party member Cde Sabikwa Msipha in a matter linked to leadership squabbles in Kwekwe.
Through their lawyer Liberty Mashanyare of Masawi and Partners, the duo pleaded not guilty.
They were remanded out of custody on free bail to August 18 for judgment.
“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 did not 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. Whilst 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