Magistrate scolds Mthwakazi over traditional Ndebele headgear

BULAWAYO magistrate, Adelaide Mbeure was Thursday called to reprimand some Mthwakazi Republic Party (MRP) officials and their supporters who turned up in court dressed in their traditional headgear.

This was during a brief court appearance by six people, who include officials of the radical pro-Matebeleland opposition who were arrested for staging a violent demonstration at a Bulawayo Pick 'n Pay supermarket branch.

Before court proceedings Thursday, Mbeure expressed her reservations through the accused's lawyer, Prince Bhutshe Dube about the traditional headgear which was worn by some of his clients and their followers in her court.

"Please your clients should respect the court by wearing appropriate attire. This is a serious place," said Mbeure.

In his response, Dube, from Abameli Lawyers for Human Rights, said he had tried to advise his clients not to enter the court with the headdress but they were adamant this was a gear that was consistent with their Ndebele culture.

Dube however promised to talk it over with his clients so that they do not wear the same gear during their next court appearance.