Zanu PF MP Tsungai Makumbe Acquitted of Rape Charges Against Ex-Wife
Tsungai Makumbe, a Zanu PF MP, has been acquitted of raping his ex-wife at gunpoint due to insufficient evidence and inconsistencies in the complainant’s account, as ruled by Harare Magistrate Clever Tsikwa. The alleged incident from November 2022 was not reported until September 2023, raising doubts about the credibility of the claims.
In a recent legal ruling, Tsungai Makumbe, a Member of Parliament associated with Zanu PF representing Mazowe North, has been acquitted of charges accusing him of raping his 23-year-old ex-wife at gunpoint. Harare Magistrate Clever Tsikwa concluded that the prosecution did not establish the case beyond a reasonable doubt, leading to the acquittal.
The allegations stemmed from an incident reported to have occurred in November 2022 in Mt. Pleasant. Prosecutors claimed that Makumbe coerced his ex-wife into his vehicle, brandishing a pistol to demand sexual intercourse without consent. They alleged that this encounter resulted in pregnancy and that the woman had contracted a chronic illness thereafter.
Specific details indicate that Makumbe forced the complainant into a vulnerable position, leading to the alleged assault. It was further alleged that he provided her with US$20 to purchase morning-after pills post-incident. However, the incident was not reported until September of the following year.
Analyzing the case, Magistrate Tsikwa cited multiple inconsistencies and lies in the complainant’s testimony, which undermined the prosecution’s argument. Ultimately, the court found no substantial evidence supporting the claims made against Makumbe. Defense attorney John Ndomene represented the accused throughout the proceedings.
The acquittal of Tsungai Makumbe underscores the complexities of sexual assault cases, particularly when evidence is inconclusive. The ruling emphasizes the necessity for credible testimonies and the impact of inconsistencies in legal proceedings. This case serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by victims seeking justice within the legal framework.
Original Source: www.zimlive.com
