MDC councillor in court for illegal demo

Kwekwe (New Ziana) – A Movement for Democratic Change party councillor for Mbizo Ward 5 in Kwekwe appeared in court on Tuesday, charged with holding an unauthorized demonstration.

Melody Chirangande (41) was charged with “Participating in a gathering with intent to promote public violence, breaches of the Peace or Bigotry as defined in Section 37(1) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act Chapter 9:23.”

The court heard that on 20 March 2020, between 1830 to 1840 hours, Chirangande together with Takatsaurwa Lovemore Savanhu and 40 others who are still at large, allegedly converged at a house in Mbizo Section 5, Kwekwe, where they allegedly connived to conduct an unauthorised demonstration.

They allegedly held a rally at Mbizo 4 Shopping Centre, singing a song which denounced President Emmerson Mnangagwa. After about 10 minutes, they allegedly dispersed and fled from the scene.

A report was made to the police and Chirangande was arrested on March 23.

The councillor, who was represented by Reginald Chidawanyika of Chitere Chidawanyika and Partners, was remanded to April 23 on ZWL$1000 bail.

She was ordered to reside at her given address, and not interfere with State witnesses and report every Friday after a fortnight at Mbizo Police Station.

Savanhu, her alleged accomplice, also appeared in court and remanded to April 23 on ZWL$1500 bail.
New Ziana