MASVINGO – Sources within the Ministry of Justice have indicated that minister Patrick Chinamasa allegedly ordered the recent release of Zanu-PF activist Edmore Hwarare from police custody behind the backs of court officials in Chiredzi and also cautioned prosecutors over the way they had handled the case. Hwarare, a former Zanu-PF provincial political commissar in Masvingo, was arrested for fraud involving a large quantity of processed sugar worth over US $132 000. Chinamasa allegedly ordered prison officials to release the self proclaimed chairman of the Zimbabwe Sugar Milling Workers Union after he was remanded in custody. Prosecutors at the Chiredzi magistrate courts promptly boycotted their duties in protest at the irregular handling of Hwarare’s case and what now turns out to have been Chinamasa’s action. Sources close to the case say Hwarare’s loyalty to Zanu-PF is unquestionable. He is well-known for his generous donations of money and goods at major party functions in Chiredzi and is said to enjoy a special relationship with Chinamasa. Masvingo area prosecutor Mirirai Shumba said Hwarare was released from custody after the state had failed to launch an appeal against the granting of bail. Chinamasa refused to comment on the issue on Friday.
Not much different from the UK?
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