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Harare magistrate Tafadzwa Miti has freed Advocate Nelson Chamisa’s former Vice Chairman vibrant lawmaker and lawyer Job Sikhala better known as “Wiwa” in political circles and his accomplice Godfrey Sithole also known as “Commander” after 595 days in detention.
Magistrate Miti presided over the full trial, which concluded with the guilty verdict. Ephraim Zinyandu, representing the State, presented evidence highlighting the gravity of the offence of the two’ offences.In sentencing Sikhala and Sithole to 2 Years for Inciting Public Violence, Miti heard Prosecutor Zinyandu argue that the offence had significant consequences, including the destruction of property and a sense of insecurity among citizens, particularly those residing in the affected area. He further emphasized that such incidents of public violence deter potential investors, as no business wants to operate in a country plagued by violence.
Zinyandu on behalf of the State, acknowledged that Sikhala had already been in custody for nearly two years, yet urged the court to consider the impact of the offence on society, as some individuals had suffered loss of property.
The defense lawyers Plead for Leniency and Defence Arguments in response, with Harrison Nkomo, pleading for a lenient sentence, proposing a wholly suspended prison term or a level 6 fine of lUS$300. Defense attorney Nkomo highlighted Sikhala’s role as a family man with numerous dependents and emphasized the negative consequences of his imprisonment on his livelihood and that of his extended family. Additionally, Nkomo emphasized Sikhala’s previous position as a legal practitioner and former legislator, which he lost due to his incarceration.
Sithole representative Oliver Marwa also argued that his client was responsible for paying the fees of 50 children through a trust, which would be negatively affected if he were imprisoned.
The Evidence Presented
During the trial, showed Sikhala had posted a video on social media, inciting CCC supporters to seek retribution for Moreblessing Ali’s death. Additionally, he arranged for lorries to transport people from Epworth and other nearby areas in Chitungwiza to Nyatsime.
In light of this, the State revealed that the violence resulted in 20 families becoming homeless and extensive damage to 13 shops, six tuck-shops, and several vehicles. CCC supporters ran amok, indiscriminately attacking residents of Nyatsime.
The fearless Former CCC MP Sikhala had been found Guilty of Inciting Public Violence with the High Court Overturning Sikhala’s Sentence And Conviction which however caused the once Incarcerated Former MP Express Disappointment in Lack of Support From Those He Regarded as Friends Amid Detention.
Miti’s sentence means Job Sikhala will Walk Free Despite Being Sentenced to 2 Years in Jail for the convicted Public Violence.
Together with his former Chitungwiza North legislator Godfrey Sithole, they are now slated for release, as they have been given a wholly suspended two-year jail sentence for inciting public violence.
The sentence, delivered on Tuesday, stems from their conviction for inciting the violent unrest that rocked Nyatsime in 2022, sparked by the tragic killing of Moreblessing Ali.
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