In a shocking turn of events, Timothy Chiminya, aka King Munhumutapa, has managed to temporarily halt his trial for allegedly insulting President Emmerson Mnangagwa. And we’re not surprised – after all, who wouldn’t want to delay a trial when accused of usurping executive powers by appointing and dethroning traditional chiefs?
The High Court ruled that prosecutors failed to follow proper procedures, because apparently, a letter from a subordinate prosecutor isn’t enough to bring someone to trial. Cue the sound of paperwork shuffling and lawyers nodding sagely.
Chiminya’s lawyer, Gift Mtisi, argued that the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) needed a valid Certificate of Authority to Prosecute from the Prosecutor-General, Loice Matanda-Moyo. Who knew that prosecuting someone for allegedly insulting the President required such a high level of bureaucratic hoops?
The trial was set to proceed, but Justice Rodgers Manyangadze stepped in and said, “Hold up, folks! Let’s get the paperwork right before we send someone to jail for allegedly being a royal pain.” The case has been suspended until the NPA gets its act together and produces the requisite certificate.
The drama continues on July 28, when Chiminya returns to court, and the NPA promises to bring its A-game (and the correct paperwork). Will the prosecutors get it right this time, or will King Munhumutapa reign supreme?
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