NEW: Chimombe, Mpofu to be put to their defence as goat scheme fraud trial deepens

Fidelis Munyoro

Chief Court Reporter

THE trial of Moses Mpofu and Mike Chimombe, who are entangled in the US$7,7 million controversy tied to the Presidential Goat Pass-On Scheme, took a new turn on Friday when Chimombe abruptly withdrew his application for discharge at the close of the State’s case.

He chose to enter the witness box.

The State is accusing the two of orchestrating a calculated scheme to siphon millions by misrepresenting their capacity to supply goats under a Government initiative designed to uplift rural livelihoods.

The tender allegedly became a channel for personal gain.

The prosecution argued that the accused secured payment but failed to fulfil the contract, leaving the project in limbo.

Chimombe’s defence maintained that the accusations distort the true circumstances. They insist that his dealings were above board.

However, Mpofu, who is facing the same charge sheet, attempted to exit the trial early by seeking a discharge.

But Justice Pisirayi Kwenda believes the State has managed to establish a prima facie case against the duo.

“In the circumstances, we are satisfied that the State has established a prima facie case for the accused to be put on his defence,” said Justice Kwenda.

The judge ruled that only by hearing the accused respond could the court reach a fair verdict.

With his application rejected, Mpofu, too, must now take the stand.

He informed the court of his intention to call three witnesses in his defence, each expected to shed light on his version of events.

The trial resumes on Thursday.