THE five MDC–T activists undergoing trial over the assault of former MDC–T deputy treasurer-general Elton Mangoma have notified Harare magistrate Milton Serima of their intention to file an application for discharge at the close of the State case.
PHILLIP CHIDAVAENZI
They said they would file the application today and the court indicated that it will rule on the application on Monday next week.
The party’s secretary for security and defence in the youth assembly, James Chidhakwa (31) and activists Francis Muchimbidzofa (38), Enock Mukudu (31), Stefani Jahwi (36) and Samson Nerwande (41) are undergoing trial for allegedly assaulting Mangoma on February 15 this year following a meeting at the party headquarters in Harare.
The suspects’ lawyer Douglas Mwonzora, who is also MDC-T spokesperson, argued that the State, represented by Venencia Mutake, had failed to prove a prima facie case against the activists through the six witnessed it called to testify.
Mwonzora said a video recording of the incident proved that none of his clients were involved in the alleged attack.
The court heard that the youths allegedly assaulted Mangoma with open hands and clenched fists all over his body, accusing him of pushing for Tsvangirai to step down as party leader.
Mangoma allegedly had his spectacles valued at $300 damaged while his shirt was torn.
