By 
The Harare Magistrates Court has denied bail for the Ninety-five individuals, who protested against the government on the 31st of March 2025.
The Harare Provincial Magistrate Isheanesu Evidence Matowa denied bail for the individuals in a virtual court appearance earlier today.
By Vongai Masuka
The group, represented by Gift Mutisi and David Coltart of the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights, faces charges of participating in a gathering with intent to promote violence, undermine public order, and security.
Magistrate Matowa, in his ruling, emphasized that the large crowd posed a threat of causing chaos within Harare’s central business district (CBD). He further stated that the fact that some of the accused do not reside in Harare presented a flight risk, making it difficult for the court to track them and ensure their future appearance.
“The crowd possed a threat to cause chaos in the central business district of Harare, some do not hail from Harare, meaning they would be difficult to trace hence, they will flee jurisdiction of this honourable count hence they can not be trusted. They are charged with intent to promote violence, undermine public order and security.” Stated the Magistrate.
The 95 protesters appeared in Harare Magistrates court today
Nomsa Kangara, representing the state, presented evidence including videos and pictures allegedly available online. Magistrate Matowa, invoking Section 117 of the Zimbabwean constitution, noted that this evidence suggested the accused individuals were still intent on carrying out their plans to demonstrate.
Consequently, he dismissed the bail application.
The 95 accused have been remanded in custody until April 24, 2025, and are scheduled to appear in Court 6. The charges against them originate from their alleged involvement in a gathering deemed unlawful and a threat to public order and security in Harare.
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