By Tendai Kamhungira
HARARE – A daring robber currently serving 12 years in prison is back in court for insulting President Robert Mugabe. Daniel Mutema, 26, was last year jailed by regional magistrate William Bhilla after he was convicted on robbery charges.
Mutema was jointly charged with Brian Juma and Tatenda Nyanhemwa on the robbery charges. He is now accused of undermining the authority of or insulting the President or alternatively contempt of court charges and three others of criminal insult.
According to state papers, the complainants in the matter are Zivanayi Makwanya, a public prosecutor, Sekai Mukweya, a police officer and Pamhidzai Patience Matambanadzo, a court interpreter, stationed at Harare Magistrates’ courts.
Prosecutor Joyce Sithole told the court that when magistrate Bhilla pronounced his ruling against the trio, the court adjourned and it is at that time that Mutema came back into the dock and allegedly threatened prosecutor Makwanya with unspecified action.
He used vulgar language as he hurled threats at the prosecutor Mukweya calling him Mugabe’s prostitute.
“He further went on to say that even if he was to be sent to jail for 70 years he will be released when Tsvangirai comes to power,” read part of the state papers.
According to state papers, Mutema went on to insult Mugabe calling him a murderer, infertile and accused him of being sexually involved with Mukweya.
Mutema denied committing the offence and told the court that some judicial officers had asked for bribe money to secure his freedom which incensed him when he was sent to prison for 12 years after failing to raise the money.
Magistrate Don Ndirowei remanded Mutema to today when the trial continues. He further went on to say that even if he was to be sent to jail for 70 years he will be released when Tsvangirai comes to power. Daily News