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Nyore Madzianike
Acting Registrar of the Medical and Dental Practitioners Council of Zimbabwe, Dr Collin Benyure, is facing allegations of lying in court that he was the council’s spokesperson and was authorised to give evidence on behalf of the organisation in a criminal trial involving another medical practitioner.
Dr Benyure appeared at the Harare Magistrates Court charged with perjury and obstruction of justice.
He was not asked to plead to the charges when he appeared before magistrate Mr Sheinesu Matova and was remanded on US$200 bail to January 17.
Dr Benyure allegedly lied that he had the authority to represent the council when he appeared as a defence witness in a matter where Dr Lennon Gwaunza was charged with violating the Data Protection Act.
Dr Gwaunza was arrested after falsely claiming that another medical practitioner, Dr Andrew Mataruse, was not qualified to practice as a clinical neurologist through emails sent to their fellow colleagues.
According to the State, in a bid to save Dr Gwaunza during the trial, Dr Benyure unlawfully and intentionally declared under oath that he was authorised to represent the council in court.
On November 6, 2024, he went on to testify in Dr Gwaunza’s corner.
Dr Benyure said the council had revisited its decision regarding the registration of Dr Mataruse’s neurology qualifications.
He allegedly failed to produce any resolution or minutes from the council authorising him to appear before the Harare Magistrates Court on its behalf.
Despite Dr Mataruse’s efforts, Dr Gwaunza was convicted and is expected back in court on December 20 for sentencing.
Tinaye Agere
Online Reporter