News / National
Chimombe falls sick, trial postponed
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Jailed businessman Mike Chimombe failed to appear for trial on Monday in a case where he is accused of defrauding the state of US$7 million under the Presidential Goats Scheme.
According to a medical letter presented before High Court Judge Pisirayi Kwenda, Chimombe is unwell and requires at least seven days to recover. His lawyer, Ashiel Mugiya, requested a postponement until March 3, 2025, to allow his client time to recuperate.
Mugiya submitted a medical document dated February 22, 2025, from Dr. D. Ngwaru, stating Chimombe's health condition. The lawyer also requested that Chimombe be examined by a state doctor, arguing that an independent medical evaluation was necessary.
"I so pray that this directive will be issued by the court," said Mugiya.
However, state prosecutor Witness Mabhaudhi opposed the request for a court order, arguing that there was no need for further medical examination as Chimombe's condition was not a mental health issue.
"We expect him to be here on Monday, so there is no need for him to be examined by a doctor. The matter has been remanded, so that should suffice," said Mabhaudhi.
Judge Kwenda granted the postponement but ruled against issuing a court order for a state doctor's examination.
Chimombe is jointly charged with his associate, Moses Mpofu. The two have been in custody since their arrest in June 2024, with multiple unsuccessful attempts to secure bail.
Their trial has faced repeated delays, including an unsuccessful attempt to have their case referred to the Constitutional Court. Several postponements have occurred since their indictment last year, raising concerns about the progress of the case.
With the new trial date set for March 3, the court expects Chimombe to appear in person, barring any further complications.
According to a medical letter presented before High Court Judge Pisirayi Kwenda, Chimombe is unwell and requires at least seven days to recover. His lawyer, Ashiel Mugiya, requested a postponement until March 3, 2025, to allow his client time to recuperate.
Mugiya submitted a medical document dated February 22, 2025, from Dr. D. Ngwaru, stating Chimombe's health condition. The lawyer also requested that Chimombe be examined by a state doctor, arguing that an independent medical evaluation was necessary.
"I so pray that this directive will be issued by the court," said Mugiya.
However, state prosecutor Witness Mabhaudhi opposed the request for a court order, arguing that there was no need for further medical examination as Chimombe's condition was not a mental health issue.
"We expect him to be here on Monday, so there is no need for him to be examined by a doctor. The matter has been remanded, so that should suffice," said Mabhaudhi.
Judge Kwenda granted the postponement but ruled against issuing a court order for a state doctor's examination.
Chimombe is jointly charged with his associate, Moses Mpofu. The two have been in custody since their arrest in June 2024, with multiple unsuccessful attempts to secure bail.
Their trial has faced repeated delays, including an unsuccessful attempt to have their case referred to the Constitutional Court. Several postponements have occurred since their indictment last year, raising concerns about the progress of the case.
With the new trial date set for March 3, the court expects Chimombe to appear in person, barring any further complications.
Source - NewZimbabwe
