Zumra to appeal 'unfair' conviction

The Zimbabwe Music Rights Association (ZIMURA) has announced plans to appeal the fraud conviction of its Executive Director, Polisile Ncube Chimhini, describing the ruling as "unjust" and based on misinterpretation of lawful procedures.

Chimhini was convicted of fraud by Harare Magistrate Rufaro Panavanhu on Wednesday but was acquitted on separate charges of forgery. She was subsequently fined US$300.

In a statement issued Thursday, ZIMURA Director of Information Alexio Gwenzi confirmed that a notice of appeal had been filed against both the conviction and the sentence.

"ZIMURA was taken to court over allegations of misrepresentation of facts related to the filing of the CR6 form, a legally recognized document submitted to and stamped by the Registrar of Companies," Gwenzi said. "This document was lawfully processed, paid for, and later tendered as evidence in the High Court in a separate case involving Phillip Chipfumbu's membership dispute."

He added: "ZIMURA maintains that no misrepresentation, forgery, or fraud occurred in this matter. The CR6 was a legitimate filing under the Companies Act, and we firmly believe the conviction is unjust."

The controversy stems from a High Court dispute in July 2023, when Phillip Chipfumbu challenged ZIMURA's operations and demanded an audit of the organisation. During proceedings, Chipfumbu discovered that a CR6 form - filed under Chimhini's direction - was not officially registered with the Department of Deeds, Companies and Intellectual Property at the time it was used in court. It was later regularised in January 2024.

While this led to the fraud charge, ZIMURA maintains that the filing process adhered to legal standards and argues that there was no intention to deceive.

The organisation also moved swiftly to dismiss widespread speculation on social media suggesting that Chimhini had been jailed or misappropriated funds.

"Please take note that the malicious statements circulating that there was misappropriation of funds and that Mrs Chimhini was remanded in custody are mere lies aimed at tarnishing her image and brand ZIMURA," Gwenzi said.

Chimhini herself took to Facebook earlier in the day, writing: "Don't worry I'm safe, one doesn't go with a phone in jail," in a bid to assure the public amid growing online rumours.

The case has sparked debate within Zimbabwe's arts and music community, with many watching closely as ZIMURA - a key institution in protecting musicians' rights - faces intense scrutiny.

Legal experts say the appeal process could set an important precedent for how corporate filings are treated in future disputes involving membership and administrative governance.

As the case continues, ZIMURA says it remains committed to transparency and upholding the legal rights of its members.