CCC imprisoned Candidate Mr Zireva was transferred from Chivi Prison to Masvingo Remand prison under dubious circumstances after granted bail by Masvingo High Court
…… As advocate Martin Mureri demands immediate release of his client from Prison
By Wezhira Munya
Yesterday, drama unfolded at Chivi Prison as alleged members of FAZ and Zanu PF forced prison authorities to transfer Chivi South CCC ward 28 candidate Mr. Ishmael Zireva to Masvingo Remand prison under dubious circumstances after he was granted bail by High Court Judge Zisengwe on April 26, 2023.
Zireva was represented by human rights lawyer Advocate Martin Mureri, who was present when the High Court judge granted bail to his client at 12:32 pm.
However, upon hearing the news, FAZ and Zanu PF members reportedly devised a plan to force prison authorities to transfer Zireva to Masvingo Remand prison at 3 pm. He was eventually transferred at 3:30 pm, despite protests from Zireva’s lawyer and nine CCC members who arrived at Chivi Magistrate Court at 3:46 pm to pay the bail and secure Zireva’s release.
Upon arrival at Chivi Prison, Zireva’s lawyer and CCC members were informed that Zireva had been transferred to Masvingo Remand prison.
Zireva was transferred to Masvingo Remand prison without the knowledge of his lawyer.
One prison official who wished to remain anonymous stated that the transfer was done to “fix him because he is CCC member.”
Despite Advocate Mureri’s demand for his client’s immediate release, the prison authorities held several meetings until 6:30 pm when they finally agreed to send one prison official to Masvingo Remand prison with the necessary documents to facilitate Zireva’s release.
Chivi Prison head requested Advocate Mureri’s assistance in providing transport for the prison officer carrying Zireva’s documents to and from Chivi.
Despite the lack of transport at satellite prisons, Advocate Mureri agreed to provide transport. Zireva was finally released from Masvingo Remand prison at 8:45 pm on the same day.
In an interview following his release, Zireva maintained his innocence and expressed his gratitude to his wife, family, President Chamisa, his lawyer Advocate Mureri, all CCC members, and everyone who supported and prayed for him during this difficult time. He also criticized the poor conditions in Zimbabwe prisons, including inadequate food, clothing, and unsuitable living conditions.
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