Masaraure convicted

Obert Masaraure, an activist, awaits his sentencing on Wednesday following his conviction yesterday on charges of obstructing the course of justice.

Masaraure, leader of the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (Artuz), allegedly faces these charges due to his social media posts on the union's platform protesting the arrest of activist Robson Chere.

Accused of demanding Chere's release after his arrest in connection with the death of Artuz member Roy Issa in 2016, Masaraure denies the charges.

Issa reportedly fell to his death from the seventh floor of a Harare hotel. Despite an inquest ruling out foul play, police reopened the case and charged Masaraure and Chere with murder.

Despite Masaraure's denial, Harare regional magistrate Feresi Chakanyuka found him guilty of obstructing justice.

"The court is convinced beyond reasonable doubt that the accused committed the offence," stated Chakanyuka in her ruling, noting that the state had established a prima facie case against Masaraure.

Masaraure, represented by Tapiwa Muchineripi, has been remanded in custody until today for pre-sentencing recording and mitigation.

The human rights activist faces other pending cases in court, including charges of subversion and violating COVID-19 safety regulations.