3 CCC protesters seek bail

Harare magistrate Dennis Mangosi is expected to rule today on the bail application of three Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) activists who were arrested while protesting for the release of their detained colleagues. Phillies Pikitayi (29), Daphine Gutsa (40), and Simbarashe Blackson (30) were arrested on June 27 for picketing outside the Harare Magistrates Court against the continued detention of 79 CCC members.

State prosecutor Takudzwa Jambawu reported that the activists were demonstrating in support of the incarcerated CCC members, who were arrested on June 16 at Timba's residence in Avondale, Harare. Only two individuals have been granted bail since the arrests: a minor released into his mother's custody and Timba's son, who received bail on grounds of being a student and not part of the alleged gathering promoting public violence.

The ruling today will determine whether Pikitayi, Gutsa, and Blackson will be granted bail amid ongoing legal proceedings related to the charges of participating in an unsanctioned gathering aimed at inciting public violence.