Prosecutor-General Kumbirai Hodzi was yesterday summoned to appear before a Harare magistrate to explain his decision to stop the trial of a Harare man who allegedly used high-profile people’s names to swindle unsuspecting clients of various amounts of money.
Leon Gomani (29) is facing more than 20 counts of fraud and the matter is already on defence after magistrate Morgan Nemadire dismissed his application for discharge.
But in a surprise turn of events, the State, represented by Sheila Mupindu, asked for the matter to be stopped for three weeks, saying she had allegedly received a communiqué from Hodzi.
In the case, Judicial Service Commission secretary Walter Chikwana and Zanu-PF politburo member Patrick Chinamasa testified as their names were the ones used to swindle several people.
Former Cabinet minister Saviour Kasukuwere and Chief Justice Luke Malaba were also expected to testify in the matter.
However, Nemadire asked the State the law they were using to stop proceedings that had already been on defence, upon which Mupindu replied that it was by request from the PG.
Nemadire stood down the matter and asked Mupindu to call Hodzi to come and testify on the law he was using, but Hodzi failed to appear at around 11am.
“I want the PG to come down and address me on reasons why this matter is being postponed. If he is withdrawing, he should just say so. I will not pass the ruling of the postponement unless he comes because I can sense corruption in this matter,” Nemadire said.
The magistrate then stood down the matter again to 2pm, but Hodzi failed to appear. Senior prosecutor Clemence Chimbari then came and addressed the court, saying Hodzi was no longer coming.
Chimbari told the court that Hodzi had said the matter be stopped for three weeks so that he could look into the issues of complaints into the matter.
He was, however, asked to read in court sections of the law which stipulate that the PG could stop proceedings after an accused had pleaded not guilty.
When pressured by Nemadire to explain, Chimbari said it was just a request by the PG to stop the trial for three weeks.
“What is the legal basis of stopping a matter that is already at defence case? This is now not a State’s case; you closed your case and it is now the accused’s time to explain,” Nemadire charged.
“We do court applications in terms of the law. The PG cannot stop these proceedings at this stage. Tell the PG to come tomorrow. He cannot just receive a complaint from somebody else out there and decide to stop a trial.
“Tell him to come to court tomorrow (today) at 9am without fail. Also, tell him the court is not happy at all. I want him here and I expect him to explain his decision,” Nemadire fumed.
He then adjourned the proceedings to today.
Info News
Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Human Civilization
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become one of the most transformative technologies in human history. From healthcare and education to banking and transportation, AI systems are changing how people live, work, and communicate. Businesses worldwide are investing heavily in machine learning, automation, robotics, and data analysis technologies designed to improve efficiency and reduce operational costs. Experts believe artificial intelligence will continue reshaping industries over the next several decades, making it one of the most important topics in modern society.
rnrn
One of the biggest advantages of artificial intelligence is its ability to process enormous amounts of information quickly and accurately. In healthcare, AI-powered systems assist doctors with medical diagnoses, patient monitoring, and drug development. Hospitals use machine learning tools to identify diseases earlier and improve treatment outcomes. In education, AI-driven learning platforms personalize lessons for students based on their strengths and weaknesses, helping improve academic performance.
rnrn
The business sector has also experienced major changes due to AI innovation. Companies use artificial intelligence to automate customer service, detect fraud, improve cybersecurity, and optimize marketing campaigns. Online shopping platforms rely on AI algorithms to recommend products to customers based on browsing history and preferences. Social media companies also use machine learning systems to personalize content and advertisements for users worldwide.
rnrn
Despite its advantages, artificial intelligence raises serious concerns about privacy, job displacement, and ethical responsibility. Many workers fear automation could replace traditional jobs, especially in manufacturing and administrative sectors. Experts argue that governments and educational institutions must invest in digital skills training to prepare workers for future employment opportunities. Responsible AI development and proper regulation will play a critical role in ensuring that technology benefits society while minimizing risks.
rn
High Net Worth Divorce Attorney: Protecting Assets During Divorce
A high net worth divorce can involve complex assets such as businesses, real estate, investments, retirement accounts, stock options, trusts, and luxury property. A high net worth divorce attorney helps protect financial interests during divorce.
rnrn
These cases often require asset valuation, forensic accounting, tax planning, and careful negotiation. One spouse may try to hide assets or undervalue a business.
rnrn
Property division can become complicated when assets were acquired before marriage, inherited, placed in trusts, or mixed with marital funds.
rnrn
Spousal support may also be a major issue when one spouse earns significantly more than the other.
rnrn
A high net worth divorce lawyer may work with accountants, financial experts, business valuators, and tax professionals.
rnrn
The goal is to reach a fair settlement while protecting long-term financial stability.
rnrn
If significant assets are involved, legal and financial planning are essential before signing any agreement.
rn
