VIVA Zimbabwe president William Mutumanje, popularly known as Acie Lumumba, who was arrested two weeks ago for allegedly insulting President Robert Mugabe, had his application challenging further remand dismissed, after the magistrates’ court ruled his arguments were insufficient to stop proceedings.
MARY TARUVINGA
Through his lawyer, Ashiel Mugiya, Lumumba had sought to be placed off remand, arguing he was improperly before the court, as the Prosecutor-General (PG) did not authorise his prosecution.
Harare provincial magistrate Vakai Chikwekwe ruled Lumumba’s arguments were insufficient to stop proceedings. He was remanded to July 22 for commencement of trial.
Lumumba allegedly denigrated and insulted Mugabe while announcing the formation of his political party in Harare a fortnight ago.
The State also accuses him of inciting the violence that rocked parts of Harare two weeks ago.
