Accused robber seeks court proceeding transfer, alleging prosecutorial overreach
By Dumisani Ndlovu
In a surprising turn of events, Clemence Svongera, the accused robber, has requested a change of court for his trial, citing prosecutorial overreach as the reason for his plea, a development that has been described by a court official as a ploy to evade the veteran prosecutor’s expertise and skillful handling of the case.
The official further suggesting that the accused is attempting to dodge the prosecutor’s formidable questioning and trial tactics.
Svongera stands accused of robbing Internationally renowned Gweru business man and diversified investor Dr Tinashe Manzungu. He claims that the prosecutor’s intense questioning has created a hostile trial environment for him.
“I appeal to the honorable court to transfer me from this court,” Svongera said. “I think the state is pushing a lot of pressure on me. I see as if the state has begrudged me.”
The accused’s assertion, suggested that the prosecutor’s antagonistic tactics have compromised his ‘s ability to defend himself, while the prosecution maintains that their examination is necessary to uncover the truth.
The request for a new court outside Gweru has sparked debate about the limits of prosecutorial power and the importance of ensuring a fair and impartial trial. As the court considers Svongera’s plea, concerns arise about the balance between zealous prosecution and a defendant’s right to a fair trial.
“This assertion by the accused is nothing but a ploy to evade the veteran prosecutor’s expertise and skillful handling of the case. The accused was attempting to dodge the prosecutor’s formidable questioning and trial tactics.” said the court official who could not be mentioned for professional reasons.
Another senior law expert who is a court insider has dismissed the allegation as a clever tactic to avoid facing the seasoned prosecutor’s rigorous examination and exceptional professional skills, implying that the accused is trying to sidestep the prosecutor’s expertise in building a strong case after feeling the intense prosecution heat.
This move has been seen by some as a strategic attempt to bypass the prosecutor’s renowned expertise, potentially undermining the integrity of the trial process.
