Supreme Court Reserves Judgment in Tapiwa Makore Murder Appeal

The Supreme Court of Zimbabwe yesterday heard the appeal of Tafadzwa Shamba and Gweru Makore, convicted in the gruesome 2020 murder of 7-year-old Tapiwa Makore. 

 The case, which shocked the nation for its ritualistic nature, saw the High Court initially sentence both men to death.

However, the passing of the Death Penalty Abolition Act [Chapter 9:26] prior to the Supreme Court hearing automatically commuted the death sentence, placing the focus of the appeal on the conviction itself and the subsequent sentence.

By Vongai Masuka

Shamba and Makore were found guilty of murdering Tapiwa Makore for ritualistic purposes, allegedly to enhance Gweru Makore’s cabbage business.

The High Court’s ruling detailed the horrific circumstances of the young boy’s death, triggering outrages and calls for justice.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) the confirmation of the death sentence was prevented after the Death Penalty Abolition Act came into effect.

“Before the Supreme Court could hear the appeal, Death Penalty Abolition Act (Chapter 9:26) came into effect, preventing the confirmation of the death sentence.

“Appeal arguments were presented, and the court has reserved judgement.” Reads the statement.