Convict collapses, dies while awaiting sentence

A 26-year-old man, Blessing Kalatala, tragically died in detention last week after collapsing during a court appearance at Rusape Magistrates Court. Kalatala had been awaiting sentencing on charges of negligent driving.

He had pleaded guilty and was scheduled to be sentenced by Magistrate Mrs. Babra Mateko. Although previously released, Kalatala had been remanded back into custody pending his sentencing. During his appearance last Friday, he collapsed and was taken to Rusape Remand Prison, where he passed away later that evening.

Prosecutor Faith Mutukwa provided details of the accident that led to the charges. The incident occurred on October 31 last year, when Kalatala, driving a Toyota Hiace (registration ADU 3535) along the Harare-Mutare Road from Nyazura to Mutare, turned into the path of an oncoming Nissan AD Van (registration AGN 1313) driven by Linah Makufa. The collision, which occurred near the 192km peg, also involved Makufa's three passengers, Estela Salina Sadombo and Lonah Madlayo, who sustained injuries and were subsequently examined medically.

Both vehicles were significantly damaged and inspected by the Vehicle Examination Department.

Mutukwa told the court that the State would argue that Kalatala had driven negligently, failing to act reasonably when an accident seemed imminent and travelling at an excessive speed under the circumstances.

"The incident underscores the serious consequences of negligent driving and the importance of road safety," she said.