Zanu PF MP Tsungai Makumbe Acquitted of Rape Charges Against Ex-Wife

Tsungai Makumbe, a Zanu PF MP, has been acquitted of raping his ex-wife at gunpoint due to lack of evidence. The magistrate ruled that inconsistencies in the complainant’s testimony weakened the case against him. Following the alleged assault, the complainant received medical treatment but reported the incident months later.

In a notable ruling, Tsungai Makumbe, a Member of Parliament with the Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front (Zanu PF), has been acquitted of rape charges involving his ex-wife. The magistrate, Clever Tsikwa, determined that the prosecution failed to establish the case beyond a reasonable doubt. The alleged incident took place in November 2022, with claims that it resulted in pregnancy and subsequent transmission of a chronic illness.

Prosecutors claimed that on the night of the incident, Makumbe visited the complainant’s home around 10 PM, inviting her to meet him at the gate, where she complied and entered his vehicle. They alleged that he brandished a pistol and demanded sexual relations. Reports indicated that he forcibly maneuvered the complainant, which resulted in her being positioned to endure the assault.

Following the incident, it was said that the complainant received US$20 from Makumbe for morning-after pills and later sought medical treatment at Parirenyatwa Hospital, where she was diagnosed with a chronic disease. However, she reported the incident months later, on September 2 of this year. In his ruling, Magistrate Tsikwa identified several inconsistencies in the complainant’s testimony, stating, “The complainant’s version has many inconsistencies and lies. She attempted to paint the accused wrongly.” Attorney John Ndomene represented Makumbe during the proceedings.

The acquittal of Tsungai Makumbe underscores the challenges of prosecuting sexual assault cases, particularly when inconsistencies arise in testimonies. The magistrate’s ruling emphasizes the necessity for clear evidence in such serious allegations. This case illustrates the complexities involved in the judicial process and the critical importance of corroborating evidence.

Original Source: www.zimlive.com