The High Court of Zimbabwe has denied bail to former cabinet minister Walter Mzembi, who is facing charges of theft of trust property involving over $1 million in public assets. Justice Maxwell Dembure delivered the judgment, citing Mzembi’s seven-year absence from court as a demonstration of his disregard for the law.
Mzembi had been on the run since 2018, after being granted temporary release of his passport for medical treatment in South Africa. He resurfaced in June 2025, arguing that his cancer treatment explained his absence and that changed circumstances, including the withdrawal of charges against his co-accused, warranted his release on bail. However, the judge was unconvinced, stating that Mzembi’s conduct had caused the prolonged delay in bringing the case to trial.
The court rejected Mzembi’s arguments, including those based on property title deeds tendered as surety. The judge ruled that these did not constitute a valid ground for bail on changed circumstances. Furthermore, the court noted that Mzembi’s long absence from the jurisdiction of the court had clearly caused the delay in the finalization of his case.
Mzembi’s lawyers had argued that his freedom was justified due to exceptional circumstances, but the judge found that these claims were not convincing. The court also emphasized that the existence of new facts does not automatically result in the applicant being granted bail.
The former minister will remain in custody pending trial. The court’s decision reinforces the principle that individuals who evade justice for an extended period will face consequences. Mzembi’s case has been ongoing for several years, and the latest development is a significant step towards bringing the matter to a close.
The theft of trust property charges against Mzembi relate to his alleged misuse of public assets during his time in office. The case has been closely watched in Zimbabwe, where corruption and abuse of power are significant concerns. The High Court’s decision to deny Mzembi bail pending trial sends a strong message about the importance of accountability and the rule of law.
