Tinaye Agere
Online Reporter
Norton magistrate Mrs Christine Nyandoro has set December 9 as the ruling date for Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa’s application for discharge at the State’s case.
Madzibaba Ishmael is jointly charged with Takavengwa Gwenzi (55), Siribiniyo Chikunhire (53), Wonder Kabaya (41), Devlodge Katsande (48), Zebedia Sigudu (49), Aaron Chokurongerwa (47) and Shingirai Ngavafume (42), all from Lilly Farm, Nyabira.
They are charged with ill-treatment of children, conducting burials without proper authorisation and failing to register births and deaths in violation of the Births and Deaths Registration Act.
Madzibaba Ishmael and the co-accused denied the charges.
After leading 13 witnesses, the State represented by Harare District Public Prosecutor Mr Tafara Chirambira and Ms Sheila Mupindu closed its case.
Through lawyer Mr Musindo Hungwe, Madzibaba Ishmael and his co-accused applied for discharge at the close of the State’s case.
They argued that the State had failed to prove a case against them.
In its response, the State said it managed to prove the case through investigations that uncovered ‘shocking’ conditions at Madzibaba Ishmael’s farm.
The State said social welfare authorities reported that they found children working during school hours, adding that none of them were registered at local schools and had birth certificates.
It also argued that an inspection in loco revealed gravesites, with indications that burials were conducted without any 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 that their actions were motivated by their faith.
As the court prepares to deliver its ruling, the outcome could have far-reaching implications for child welfare and religious practices in Zimbabwe.
Online Reporter