By Senior Courts Reporter & Editor-in-Chief
GWERU, MIDLANDS, Zimbabwe – The Gweru Magistrate Court has become the epicenter of public outrage and scrutiny, as two recent court cases have brought allegations of judicial bias, corruption, and favoritism to the forefront.
The sentiment in the City of Progress is palpable, with citizens questioning the integrity of a system that appears to favor the wealthy while leaving the underprivileged at a disadvantage. The cases in question, presided over by Magistrate Anold Maburo, highlight a troubling disparity in sentencing practices that has ignited a fervent demand for accountability and reform.
In the first instance, Takunda Manjokota—a self-proclaimed lawyer—was convicted of defrauding a trust fund of a staggering $15,000 under criminal record number GWP19-24.Surprisingly, he was granted a non-custodial sentence, allowing him to escape imprisonment altogether. In suspicious disparity, Courage Maningi, a final-year student at Midlands State University (MSU), faced incarceration for allegedly defrauding a client of $1,500 over a purported fake work permit (GWP2014/24).
This jarring difference in sentencing outcomes has ignited a firestorm of public outrage. Residents of Gweru are left questioning how a first-time offender who embezzled ten times more than another can receive such disparate treatment. The prevailing sentiment is one of profound distrust in the judicial apparatus.
A close relative of Courage, who chose to remain anonymous, disclosed that the situation surrounding her relative’s case was further complicated by alleged demands from court officials. According to her, the family was asked to pay US$800 to influence the court proceedings, a sum they simply could not muster. When they expressed their financial constraints, the figure was reportedly reduced to US$600.
In a desperate attempt to assist her relative, she recounted that a female public prosecutor (name withheld) suggested that they sell their family car to raise the funds.”Courage went to jail because we failed to raise the money demanded by the court officials,” She lamented, her voice heavy with despair.”We were told that selling our Honda Fit was necessary to secure a non-custodial sentence for Courage, which would benefit him and preserve our family’s standing in the community.”
These allegations of corruption within the judicial system, coupled with the lenient sentence handed to Manjokota, have led to a chorus of accusations that “justice in Gweru is now for sale.”
Critics argue that Manjokota’s ability to navigate the legal system accentuate a privilege reserved for those with financial resources. This raises serious ethical questions about whether the severity of a crime is the sole determinant of punishment or if an individual’s social status plays a significant role.
A team of Gweru legal practitioners are reportedly taken the Judiciary Service Commission head on to voice their anger, holding highly charged complaint meetings to demand accountability. The affected legal practitioner, who fell victim to the dirty justice deals allegedly engaged Gweru Lawyers Association Chairperson, Reginald Chidawanyika Community have mobilized engagement meetings with both the JSC and Prosecution to advocate for a comprehensive review of the justice system in Gweru, emphasizing the need for transparency and equity in the application of justice, irrespective of wealth or social standing.
“If two individuals commit similar crimes, the punishments should be proportionate,” asserted one community leader during a recent social media address.”We cannot allow the rich to buy their way out of consequences while the poor pay the price.”
Local media outlets have begun investigating similar cases, uncovering numerous instances of individuals facing harsh sentences for minor infractions while those with connections or financial means have evaded accountability. This increased media scrutiny has amplified calls for an independent review of judicial processes at Gweru Magistrate Court.
A local lawyer who prayed for anonymity said they are some lawyers who are beneficiaries of the rot in the judiciary and prosecution at Gweru Magistrate complicating investigation efficiency.
Speaking to this media publication, scores of the citizens of Gweru were adamant about demanding accountability from their judicial system, insisting it should serve the community rather than a privileged few. They are resolute in their determination to challenge what they perceive as a rigged system and reclaim their right to fair and impartial justice.
In response to the burgeoning public outcry, local authorities have announced an investigation into the sentencing practices in Gweru. They have pledged to leave no stone unturned in ensuring that the Anti-Corruption Commission and the Judiciary Commission review cases that have raised concerns, with the objective of upholding the principles of justice.
However, skepticism remains high among justice officials, with many Gweru lawyers wary of unfulfilled promises made by the JSC to deal with the corruption matter once and for all in March and April 2025. A legal analyst pointed out that Magistrate Maburo’s reassignment to the civil court may be perceived as a mere lateral move, potentially insufficient to address the gravity of the allegations against him. The analyst contended that this reassignment may not adequately mitigate concerns surrounding judicial impartiality and corruption, necessitating a more comprehensive investigation and accountability mechanism to restore public trust in the judiciary.
Contacted for comment Gweru Lawyers Association Chairperson Reginald Chidawanyika confirmed the developments but refused to shed more light into the matter.
“Yes, it’s true as the Chairperson of Gweru Lawyers; I received a damning complaint to that effect from one of our member, Tatenda Kamwenda of Tavenhave and Machingauta Legal Practitioners. I however do not want to delve much into the nitty-gritty of the matter at this juncture, “he said.
Magistrate Maburo is alleged to have a traceable history of misconduct and has faced demotions on several occasions.
When contacted for comment, Judiciary Service Commission Spokesperson Daniel Nemukuyu expressed a lack of awareness regarding the cases.
“I am not familiar with the situation; however, I will investigate the allegations and will revert back to you once I have actual facts. I will also verify whether there is an official complaint regarding this issue,” he stated.
As the investigation unfolds, the people of Gweru remain vigilant, determined, and demanding a transparent and equitable legal framework that operates in the best interest of all citizens, regardless of their socio-economic status.
In light of these events, the community of Gweru stands at a pivotal crossroads. The collective outrage surrounding the cases of Takunda Manjokota and Courage Maningi may serve as a catalyst for much-needed change within the justice system. Whether the authorities will heed the calls for reform remains to be seen, but for the people of Gweru, the pursuit of justice is far from over. They are resolute in their fight for a system that prioritizes fairness and accountability, ensuring that justice is not a commodity available for purchase but a fundamental right for all.
