A Bulawayo-based Roman Catholic priest, Father John Sewera, has been acquitted of charges related to obstructing the course of justice. The case stemmed from allegations that he blocked Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) officers from arresting his relative, Mthandazo Gumede, who is accused of defrauding the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) of nearly $100,000.

Sewera appeared before Bulawayo Provincial Magistrate Richard Ramaboea, facing a charge under section 184 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act. The State, represented by Denmark Chihombe, alleged that Sewera attempted to shield his relative from investigation by instructing a person not to disclose Gumede’s whereabouts to ZACC officials. It was also alleged that Gumede was hiding at Sewera’s home in Bulawayo’s Lobengula West suburb while ZACC officers were searching for him.

However, Magistrate Ramaboea found that the State failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt. He noted that the relevant section of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act specifically criminalizes obstruction of justice against police officers, not ZACC officials. As a result, Sewera was found not guilty and acquitted.

The case highlights the importance of understanding the roles and responsibilities of different law enforcement agencies in Zimbabwe. The ZACC is responsible for investigating corruption cases, while the police are responsible for general law enforcement. The distinction between these agencies is crucial in determining the application of the law in cases like this.

The acquittal of Father Sewera brings an end to the case against him, but the investigation into the alleged fraud at the GMB is likely to continue. Gumede, who is accused of being part of a group of GMB workers involved in the alleged fraud, remains at large. The case serves as a reminder of the need for transparency and accountability in public institutions, as well as the importance of ensuring that the law is applied fairly and consistently.