According to prosecutors, the defendants claimed to have procured 32,500 goats but only accounted for 3,712 animals.
Zanu-PF members Mr. Mike Chimombe and Mr. Moses Mpofu appeared in court today facing allegations of corruption amounting to US$7 million from the fund designated for purchasing goats under the Presidential Goat Scheme, intended to benefit the poor.
It is alleged that the duo purchased a limited number of goats and misappropriated funds. Prosecuting the case, Mr Anesu Chirenje requested a Thursday hearing to allow investigators to present comprehensive evidence against the accused.
According to prosecutors, the defendants claimed to have procured 32,500 goats but only accounted for 3,712 animals.
Magistrate Mrs Marewanazvo Gofa indicated that she will deliver her decision tomorrow on whether bail will be granted to the accused.
Mr Obert Chinhamo, affiliated with the anti-corruption organisation Anti-Corruption Trust of Southern Africa (act-sa), expressed hope that this year, the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission would demonstrate robust enforcement and not merely go through the motions.
In a separate case before the courts, former Deputy Minister of Information Mr. Bright Matonga has been returned to Chegutu for trial. The judge has allowed him to plead guilty from home pending a decision on bail. Mr Matonga faces allegations of embezzling farming equipment valued at US$500,000
COMMENTS