Job Sikhala to appeal conviction at High Court

MARTHA MAMOMBE

Convicted Citizens Coalition for Change deputy chairman Job Sikhala will appeal his conviction for obstructing or defeating the course of justice in Nyatsime in the murder case of political activist Moreblessing Ali.

Harare Magistrate Marehwanazvo Gofa yesterday sentenced Sikhala to six months in prison or a fine of US$600.

However, Sikhala’s lawyer Harrison Nkomo said they would appeal the conviction at the High Court, where his client feels the matter will be handled better.

“We have instructions to file to the High Court. The accused person believes very strongly that he stands a better chance in the High Court on review, a superior court might arrive at a different decision altogether,” Nkomo said.

Sikhala who has been in remand since June 2022 will remain in custody for three other charges that are before the courts. His detention has drawn widespread criticism and invited scrutiny on the country’s justice system from an array of civil society groups.

“He is in high spirits. He has been participating in the proceedings as a lawyer substantially contributing,” said Nkomo who stood beside one of Sikhala’s 12 children as he addressed journalists soon after his client was convicted.

Representatives of his party (CCC), supporters and family were present in a show of support and solidarity for the embattled lawmaker whose legal troubles are not yet over.

Speaking to journalists, Citizens Coalition for Change deputy spokesperson Gift Ostallos Siziba told the media “We are not happy, everyone is in a state of shock. This happens as we are entering into the shadows of an election where political leaders are persecuted. Most of our leaders are in and out of the courts for different concocted political charges.”

Sikhala’s conviction comes hot on the heels of the conviction and sentencing of staunch government critic and leader of opposition Transform Zimbabwe party Jacob Ngarivhume who was sentenced to four years in prison for inciting the public to protest against corruption at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns in 2020.

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