Court reinstates gold mine shareholder's rights

The High Court has overturned a decision by minority shareholders of Botha Gold Mine to remove Themba Hlongwane from his position, bringing a close to a contentious boardroom coup that had sparked a fierce court battle.

The minority shareholders had attempted to seize control of the company through court orders HCH4802/24 and HCH4255/24. However, High Court judge Justice Siyabona Musithu, in case number HCH5865/24, ruled to set aside the previous court orders, halting the actions taken under them.

In a press statement, Botha Gold Mine named six individuals behind the attempted coup: Munyaradzi Nzarayapenga, Leonard Rwambiwa, Dudzai Ruzvidzo Kajokoto, Ashley Ziyarura Zulu, Simbarashe Nzenza, and Tendai Chinyani. The company warned that these individuals are not recognized as directors and do not represent either Botha Gold Mine or Side Electrical (Pvt) Ltd in any capacity.

"The public is warned that these individuals are not directors and do not represent Side Electrical (Pvt) Ltd or Botha Gold Mine in any capacity," the statement read.

Botha Gold Mine further stated that it had reported these individuals for fraudulent acts to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, who will take appropriate action.

The minority shareholders had used the court orders to accuse Botha Gold Mine's general manager, Angela Mpofu-Chisvo, and Themba Hlongwane of misappropriating company funds and hiding vital information. However, the company denied the allegations, calling them a "decoy" created by the minority shareholders to tarnish the company's reputation and gain legitimacy for their bid to take control.

"We sincerely apologise to all innocent individuals who may have been maliciously slandered during this debacle," the statement continued. "No such incidents occurred, and the accusations were perpetrated by devious minority shareholders in a bid to illegitimately acquire control of the company."

Botha Gold Mine emphasized that it disassociates itself from any dealings or actions made by the accused individuals or anyone claiming to act on their behalf.

The case remains ongoing, with Botha Gold Mine reaffirming its commitment to ensuring that the rightful leadership remains in place and that any fraudulent activities are investigated thoroughly. The court's decision marks a significant victory for the company in its legal battle against the minority shareholders seeking to gain control.