The state has requested an extended remand to continue investigations into Ward 22 Nkulumane Councillor Mmeli ‘Bruce’ Moyo, who was arrested for allegedly staging an anti-government protest denouncing the arrest of opposition members.
Councillor Moyo, who was detained for nearly a month, was granted bail by the High Court this week.
He was initially arrested on August 1, 2024, on charges of incitement to commit public violence.
The allegations stem from a protest he reportedly organised, demanding an end to “one-party rule” and condemning the arrest of Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) leader Jameson Timba and other Harare residents.
During his court appearance on August 30, 2024, at Tredgold Magistrates Court before Magistrate Shepherd Munjanja, the state requested that the matter be remanded until September 27, 2024, to allow for the completion of investigations.
Moyo’s lawyer, Tinashe Runganga of Tanaka Law Chambers, explained the current status of the case, noting that Moyo was brought to court on a Form 242.
This form is used when investigations are still ongoing, and a complete docket, including witness statements, a charge sheet, and a state outline, is not yet available.
“Remember Moyo came to court on Form 242, so the state is doing the investigations and they are saying that they will give us a trial date on 27 September,” said Runganga.
“Form 242 is not a complete docket but a form which brings an accused person to court when investigations are still ongoing.”
While in detention, Moyo’s legal team claimed that he had been denied fundamental rights, including visitations, food, and medical care.
These conditions reportedly took a toll on his mental health, raising concerns among his supporters.
The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) announced Moyo’s release on US$100 bail on Wednesday, marking the end of his prolonged detention.
This brought some relief to Moyo and his supporters, who had been advocating for his release amidst concerns over his well-being.
As part of his bail conditions, Moyo is required to report to Bulawayo Central Police Station once every week.
