By Wezhira Munya
In a recent development that has sent shockwaves through the Chivi North ward 3 and entire Chivi community, Mr Masocha Mauto, a former member of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party, has been convicted of attempted murder of staunch Zanu-PF member Mr Kudzai Mbuzani. The incident has shed light on the political tensions and family feuds that have plagued the region, with allegations of lawfare being used to target opposition party members. This article delves into the details surrounding the case, the underlying political dynamics, and the reactions of key figures involved.
The Verdict and Sentencing
Following a legal process, Masocha Mauto was found guilty of attempting to murder Mbuzai a strong Zanu-PF member in Chivi by the Masvingo Regional Magistrate Court. As a result, he has been sentenced to three years in prison. The judgment has elicited a strong emotional response from Mr Emmanuel Chidaushe, a former 2023 harmonized elections CCC aspiring member of parliament for Chivi North, who expressed his deep sorrow and solidarity with Masocha and his family during these challenging times.
The Political Context
The incident leading to Masocha’s arrest took place in Chivi, where he engaged in a physical altercation with Mbuzani aged 39 a member of the ruling Zanu-PF party over political matters. Zanu-PF has faced allegations of employing lawfare tactics to suppress opposition party members throughout Zimbabwe. During the altercation, both Zanu-PF members and Masocha sustained injuries, further intensifying the conflict.
Family Feud and Political Ambitions
Masocha Mauto happens to be the biological brother of former Zanu-PF ward 3 councillor, Mr Mandi Mauto. Despite sharing the same father but different mothers, their differing political affiliations and aspirations caused a significant rift between them. Masocha sought to succeed his brother as the CCC councillor for ward 3, which exacerbated the animosity between them. In a surprising turn of events, Mandi Mauto joined forces with Masocha’s opponents to fabricate a story of attempted murder against his own brother. Mr Phillip Marape said, families should not fight over political affiliations but they should unity and seek ways to solve problems amicably.
Masocha’s Allegations and Withdrawal
Mandi attributed his loss of support within the ward to rumors that his brother Masocha enjoyed the backing of President Nelson Chamisa. Additionally, his brother Masocha intended to contest as the ward 3 council candidate under the CCC party, led by President Nelson Chamisa. However, upon recognizing the deep-seated family animosity stemming from his brother Mandi and Zanu-PF, he ( Masocha) decided to withdraw his desire to participate in the CCC candidate selection process. After he withdrew Mr. Admond Ndukwana finally represented CCC as council candidate. Nevertheless, the conflict persisted, ultimately leading to his arrest and subsequent imprisonment.
Calls for Appeal
Prominent human rights lawyer and Member of Parliament for Masvingo Urban, Honorable Martin Mureri, expressed his disappointment over Masocha’s three-year imprisonment for attempted murder. He firmly believes that an appeal should be filed with the High Court, and he has pledged his support in assisting Masocha with the legal process hence forth.
In conclusion, the conviction of Masocha Mauto for attempted murder has shed light on the political tensions and familial discord that have plagued Chivi North. The case highlights the use of lawfare against opposition party members and the bitter rivalries that can arise within families due to political ambitions. As the community grapples with the aftermath of this incident, attention turns to the legal appeal process and efforts to ensure justice is served.
